Dated Blouse Refashion

Ever come across something at the thrift store that just begged you to rescue it? A couple weeks ago, this blouse pleaded with me to take it home, and even though it reminded me of an old timey librarian, I gave in.

I'm weak.

I liked the lacy collar, but those sleeves had to go. Using my shears, I carefully removed the flouncy sleeves. Then I used a small zigzag stitch around the edges of the armholes to keep the fabric from fraying.

Good bye sleeves!

Next, I used some cream 1/4 inch double fold bias tape to finish the edges. I hand stitched the bias tape in place because I didn't want the thread to show.

Finish them!

I also re-used some leftover lace from the sleeves, hand stitching the lace to the arm holes and trimming the excess. This kept the arms from being too loose and open.

Because no one needs to see that much armpit.

And there I had it - a new blouse for work. I think it will work well with pants or skirts, and I can throw on a cardigan when the weather cools off.

Ta daaaa!

I think the blouse is happy to have been rescued, don't you?
- Elizabeth
aka The Hungry Octopus