Upcycled Yoga Pants and Lace Panties

Like many others who have been under Shelter In Place due to Covid, I have been living in loungewear. Specifically, yoga pants. After year of near constant rotation, ALL of my yoga pants are looking worse for wear with holes developed in VERY conspicuous places. While I would typically donate clothing in good condition, these were destined for the trash bin. However, the thought of tossing several pairs of pants away due to a few holes (and worn out elastics) didn’t sit well with me.

I was able to upcycle the leg portion of the pants into high waisted knickers! While the fabric above the thigh was worn out, the lower portion was in perfectly good condition. With a little fussy cutting - center seam of these panties were the outer leg seam - and some black lace with a bit of elastic, I got to try out some new styles.

These high waisted knickers with strap elastic detail was the most surprising. The strappy lingerie trend has been in high gear for quite some time but their use in panties always gave me pause. It seemed like an oxymoron. Strap elastic was designed to not stretch too much (often 50% or less) but knicker elastic often needs to stretch 100% or more. It was also designed hold its shape (so it doesn’t curl or fold on the shoulder) how could that be comfortable could it be on the waist? And wouldn’t a skinny, firm elastic at the waist emphasis belly bulge?

I’m happy to report that strap elastic is VERY comfy on knickers. The key is the adjustable slider - you can tighten or loosen as your needs change. WHY this wasn’t marketed as a solution for buffets (remember those?), I’ll never understand. It should be part of every buffets eater’s arsenal - right up there with stretchy pants and a flowy top.

I was able to squeeze another pair out with a bit of color blocking and some stretch lace trim. Its slightly basic, a bit cute and very functional.