How to Make "Traveling Pants" in Your Own Sisterhood

The film "The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants" is based on the book by Ann Brashares. The film--and its sequel--received a warm reception among many fans of the books. The books and movies inspire girls all over, and it can help put into perspective the true value of friendship. It also can create envy if we don't share those bonds with friends in our lives. It's possible to create a similar story, regardless of age or other facts. Making "traveling pants" to share with your friends can keep things in perfect perspective as friendships and lives go on changing.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Decide on the level of commitment your group of friends has for the idea. You may be enthralled at the notion, but your friends make have a lukewarm response. It will not work unless you are all crazy about the idea. If you get the go-ahead for the endeavor, you should all be on the same page. Starting a new tradition takes passion and work.

2. Go shopping together as a group. Go to both department stores and marts. Try on clothes until you find something that fits you all. This is tricky. Sizes will change as life goes on. Do the best you can to find something that fits. Pick an alternative clothing item if jeans become out of the question, but try to stick to the original inspiration and idea.

3. Set up the traditions for your sisterhood. You may all meet in a circle around the pants at a certain day of the month and time. This can vary depending on where you all are in the world. When you can, you should establish a common ground and place for your meetings. This should preferably be a private place. Sitting around jeans in a public coffee shop can inspire some ire from strangers and quizzical glances in your direction.

4. Decide how the jeans will rotate. It shouldn't be a simple circle, or you will always be writing to the same person and receiving the pants from the same person. Make sure the rotation of the jeans is such that someone is always sending to a different person than she did last time. This may mean that the pants don't meet one person for a while, but it ends up in proper rotation.

5. Hold a ceremony. Induct the pants into the tradition and each girl into the sisterhood. Make personal vows of friendship to each friend. This is where the important part of the tradition lies. Write down each promise you make to your friends. Each friend has different needs--aside from the universal laws of friendship we all need. Address the overall needs of friendship and the special needs each person has. This will keep your friendship healthy and growing.

Tips & Warnings

• Create a shared item other than jeans if you are all varying sizes. Most friends aren't one size fits all! Feel free to pick an item like a scarf, sunglasses or vest. You'll find some common ground for your love and friendship.
• Don't forget the reason why you are choosing to share this together. True friendship equates to sisterhood.