Even a quick look at fashion and pattern trends reveals the explosion of the comfy pants style. There are sweatpants, yoga pants, joggers, and pajama pants. These aren’t the old styles that we would actually sweat in or sleep in. They are the comfy pants that can be appropriate for Zoom meetings, home school pods, and virtual happy hours. And there are relaxed styles that fit and look good, too. I admit, I have succumbed to the elastic-waist trend and, now, the drawstring waistband. But I am not ready to give up on pants that fit. I have spent too long perfecting the crotch curve to toss it all away.

Recently, I refashioned a pair of wide-leg linen pants that were not working for me. The waistband was too big, causing the pants to sit low on my hips and moving the crotch curve dangerously close to my knees. I liked the full legs and the relaxed fit through the hips, but the waist situation just wasn’t working. I cut the waistband away and pondered some alternatives. Maybe a yoga-pants-style knit band? Maybe just cut the original band down a smidge? How about a casing with elastic? I finally settled on a casing with a drawstring tie.

I liked the casual look of a drawstring waistband for these pants, but they are often not the most practical and can be prone to wardrobe malfunctions if the tie lets loose. Every time you visit the restroom, you need several minutes to adjust the gathering back in place. That’s not the end of the world, but it’s annoying nonetheless. Let me show you how I construct a drawstring waistband that stays put, looks tidy, and falls squarely in the comfort zone.

Start with a pull-on style

Choose a…