What would be the easiest way to add contrasting color side panels in the bottom part of a tunic?

I guess you could do that. Or you could just sew the colored material directly on top of the garment. Having a hard time visualizing exactly what you mean…

I know what you’re talking about. We did it with our bell bottoms about a hundred years ago. It could work, but you’d have a piece belling out and not lying flat unless you took in some compensatory darts elsewhere.

I would do it exactly as you say.

Yes, that would work, but it would look better if you separated the side seam all the way up to the underarm, and tapered the insert from there.

I’m with @YARNLADY

If you only add godets from the waist area, you risk your tunic looking like a maternity shirt.

I just finished it. I cut along the seam all the way to the under arms. And I did cut a triangular shaped piece and sewed it up. It actually came out how I was wanting it. Thanks for the advice guys! I will post a pic soon. @Trillian thats exactly what I was wanting to do!! It actually fits a lil better now too. thanks!