Clyde Work Pants Review
I’ve been a big fan of Elizabeth Suzann, the woman, ever since she posted a detailed essay on the costs and complications of running a US-based business using sustainable materials.
She had become frustrated with people who told her that her clothing was too expensive when, in reality, her margins were exactly where they needed to be. I value her voice in the fashion industry because she’s done the work to ensure that each step of the process is ethical and full of heart.
Elizabeth Suzann, the brand, has a bit of a cult following, particularly among the minimalist set.
Grechen’s Closet, Seasons + Salt, and Style Bee feature the brand frequently and their reviews always garner dozens of comments. I’ve been fascinated by this phenomenon and wanted a chance to review a product or two, but the pieces were always outside my budget, until last month when Elizabeth Suzann offered an online sample sale.
Grab bags sold out in under a minute, but by some miracle, I snagged one. Using my affiliate income from November, I spent $225 on a mystery bag containing three bottoms. That’s three items for less than the price of one, so although it may still sound expensive, it was a bargain comparatively.
I was crossing my fingers for a pair of Clyde Work Pants because I really like the utilitarian, vintage-reminiscent silhouette. Fortunately, I got a pair in black, medium weight linen, size 6. I suspect that the ones I received are leftovers from their old sizing system (they updated their proportions last fall), so the hip and pocket area is likely more streamlined on a pair you would order today.
Thoughts on the Clyde Work Pants
I feel like a really cute Oliver Twist in these, especially with this hat. I wouldn’t say that they’re super flattering, but there’s something off-kilter and cool about them. I can’t quite put my finger on why. The 6 is a good fit with my proportions (28″ waist, 39″ hips, 5’7″ height).
I probably could have gone a size down in the waist, but they would be too tight in the butt, so this is the best fit for me.
The linen is opaque, and substantial enough to be warm in mild weather, but since I took these photos on a 20 degree day, I wore leggings underneath (also, I’ll have you know that my hair froze to my head within a minute of being outside, so I sacrificed a lot for this review, lol).
Size purchased: 6
Fit: True to size
Grade: A
Grab Bag Review
In addition to the Clydes, I received a Clyde Billow Skirt in Flax and what I think are a sample fabric pair of Andy Trousers. The Billow Skirt is unexpectedly lovely.
I don’t normally go for light colors, but I really like the way this skirt falls and how it also has that vintage, homesteader look that initially attracted me to the Clydes.
The Andy Trousers I received were made in a thick cotton canvas that makes them look like very thick scrub pants. Not a good look at all. I don’t think they’re salvageable or saleable, so I guess I’m just going to count my blessings since the other two pieces are right up my alley.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I’m happy I took the chance with the grab bag. I like two of the three items I received and think I’ll wear them a lot, especially once spring rolls around. I can’t say I’m ready to join the cult of Elizabeth Suzann yet, but I am happy to support such a thoughtful company.
