A love letter to the Zadie Jumpsuit (Paper Theory)

If there’s one sewing pattern that has stood the test of time (and Instagram’s ever-fickle algorithm), it’s the Zadie Jumpsuit by Paper Theory. Sewists love it, and I am no exception. In fact, I might just be its biggest fan. Some people have capsule wardrobes; I have a capsule collection of Zadies.

What makes this jumpsuit so beloved? The ease. The versatility. The fact that it flatters a ridiculous range of body types. It’s the kind of pattern that makes you look effortlessly put together while feeling like you’re wearing pyjamas. And as someone who loves sewing but doesn’t have the patience for fussy fastenings, the wrap style is a dream—no zips, no buttons, just a gloriously comfy fit.

In this post, I’ll be taking you through my ongoing Zadie journey—from my very first version (stitched in a panic before moving across the world) to the modified dress and top variations I’ve experimented with. I’ll share what’s worked, what hasn’t, and the versions I still have planned (because clearly, I’m not done yet).

So, if you’re considering making a Zadie—or just love hearing about a sewing pattern that refuses to go out of style—you’re in the right place. Let’s talk all things Zadie!