Tuesday, September 28, 2010

DIYdeas: long skirt into a dress

I found this awesome silk(!) skirt (avenue, size 24) at Value Village for $10. I admit $10 is a lot to pay at value village for a skirt, but it was nearly brand new, no stains, and had perfect potential to be turned into a romantic flowy dress - and I feel like ruffly, flowy, cream-colored dresses are really in right now. So I bought it!

Step one in making my dream a reality was taking out the side zip because it would only irritate my armpit. I sewed a french seam on the side, trimmed the zipper out, and in the process, tightened up the skirt a little so it fit around my chest without gaping.

The skirt still wouldn't stay put without straps, so I attempted to add straps to it using some ribbon I had. It didn't go well. I nearly ripped the delicate sheer silk overlay and irreparably damaged the skirt. So I quit and took it to my alterations lady, who made straps out of a cream colored blouse that didn't fit me, and attached them. Gotta know when to hold em, know when to fold em, know when to call in a professional, etc.

Anyways, I need to find a better bra to wear with it, but I'm super happy with how it turned out!



Paired with my new asos curve lace inset leggings that you will see often this winter:


Outfit details:
Dress: DIY
Leggings: asos curve, size 22
shoes: bc footwear, size 11
locket: gift from husband
bag: garage sale, $3
shades: because it was really hot and sunny on saturday!

A super salacious look at my thigh (aka, more detail on the lace inset):

(plus, can you spot the box o' lens cleaning wipes? Oh the joys of a bespectacled household :))

7 comments:

Gazel M. said...

This looks really good!

Shhh said...

This also works for short people. I am crocheting some straps for a skirt soon to be dress. Pics when I'm done.

neffbot said...

Thanks ladies!

Shannon - I'm excited to see it! I saw a tutorial once (can't find it now) that used crochet, plus strategically placed holes in the thrifted garment, to make a new placket for a cardigan. I'm thinking something similar may work for a skirt and may try it out.

Pretty Penny Mae said...

Very cute outfit & I LOVE your shoes!

neffbot said...

Thanks so much Brooke!

Shhh said...

Oh, I hadn't thought of a placket.I may have to dig through my scraps box to try doing that. Also random, I swear to fluffy bunnies we have passed each other in the Queen Anne area. I am terrible at recognizing people but I swear we have. And I'll stop being weird now.

neffbot said...

I didn't know you were local! I was over there the other day at the farmer's market!

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