(too tight) Dress to maxi skirt

I bought this dress in a summer sale for €15, knowing that it wouldn't fit. It was a small S size, almost XS (nothing to do with me eating too much chocolate easter eggs:)) but I really loved the petrol colour. It may seem strange, but I saw potential: an affordable maxi skirt in a beautiful color. That was a challenge I couldn't resist:).

In case you were wondering... the tailor's dummy on the left is in my size and as you can see the dress really is too tight. On the right you see the beautifull back with gathered elastic. I wanted to reuse the top edge for the waistband. A quick solution with a complete elastic waistband wouldn't work since I wanted to keep using the buttons. 

After measuring the length of the skirt I cut off the top. Then I took off the edge of the top. The combination of elastic with a front hook and eye fastening was perfect for my new waistband. It was a little to long for my waist, so I would have to take it in.

The fastening at the front made it possible to keep using the buttons as you can see on the picture below. Unfortunately I hadn't realized that there could be too much strain/pressure on the hook and eye on the inside. I was afraid the fabric would tear. That's why I added another supporting band on the inside, also with a button-opening. 

Not one but two waistbands!

I may have underestimated creating a solid waistband, but I'm still happy with the result. Still loving the petrol colour!

If you're interested in the complete making off, and/or the unexpected tear I discovered (and how I fixed it), you're welcome to visit vermaakster.blogspot.com. Until next time!

 

Men's Tie to Headband

 Hello Refashion Co-op. I found these fabulous purple corduroys at the thrift store and wanted something else purple to go with them. I decided to make a headband. (I am trying to grow out my bangs so my hair is driving me crazy!)

This tie matched so well. 

I used the narrow end of this tie. I left a bit of extra length on each side of the headband. 

I used my hot glue gun to attach the tie to the headband. 

I tucked the cut end inside with a dot of glue to hold it.

My headband was done quickly and I liked it a lot. Thanks for reading along, go to I Can Work With That for more how-to info.

 

Dress to Raincoat

 Hello Refashion Co-op. I found this unusual dress that was made from faux leather/pleather/vegan leather/vinyl/plastic. I thought it would make a great rain jacket. 

Before and after. 

I turned the dress around and cut the dress open and added a zipper. 

I added a belt like a trench coat would have. 

This was a fun project and I like the lightweight jacket I ended up with. Thanks for reading along, for more details go to I Can Work With That.