Janet, I do think it would be an easy DIY if you found a pair of really huge men's trousers. There's a buttonhole on the tab at the fly that connects to a button inside the waist near my right hip, and then a hook & eye to create the crossover look. Then there's a big inverse box pleat in the center back. I can tell these were re-designed for a woman because the hip seam is a bit curved, but I doubt it makes a big difference. And it's possible the crotch is dropped much lower than huge men's pants, but I don't know - maybe they're just that big to begin with.
And I think you're right that they're much easier to wear than the R13 jeans (which I am seriously seriously lusting after, right now). The draped wool fabric ends up looking like a skirt, so it's really forgiving.
Thanks, Angie!
Deborah, I can picture you in something very similar, even if these aren't the right shape for you (but they might be good!). Your WIWs always really inspire me.