Easy Strapless Summer Dress Refashion
I just love a simple summery refashion, don’t you?
I wonder what the cashiers at the thrift stores where I source my “before” pieces think when I buy dresses like this:
I’m really surprised that almost no one asks why I’m buying all of these frumpy frocks. Exactly ONE cashier asked if I did costumes for a local theater, but that is the only time anyone has questioned my odd purchases.
Frumpiness aside, I really like the color and print of this dress.
Those front pleats are pretty swell too.
And let’s take a look at that vintage label.
When my friends Phillip and David announced they were hosting a pie-themed poolside birthday party (very specific, no?) for one of our good friends (who prefers pie to cake), I knew I’d need to make this dress work for warm weather.
Here’s an easy way to turn a frumpy thrifted dress into a cute strapless dress!
First, I cut off everything below the armpits of my dress.
Then, I turned it inside-out, folded the top over 1″, and pinned it.
Then, I sewed this part down, leaving a small gap to thread elastic through.
Before adding my elastic, I pressed my newly-sewn casing.
Then, I cut off a piece of elastic that fit snugly (but not too snugly) below my armpits.
Using a bodkin (you can also use a safety pin), I threaded it through the casing of my dress.
Then, I sewed the ends of the elastic together.
My dress was almost done!
I decided to take advantage of those billowy sleeves by turning them into a sash.
First, I cut off the sleeves from the dress.
I removed the cuffs as well.
I cut each sleeve in two.
I sewed each half closed, and then stitched them all together.
And that’s it!
I like the high waist of dress, and think this refashion would make a great maternity summer refashion for any of you moms-to-be!
I styled my new dress with a gold sunnies, earrings, and bracelet combo, as well as black sandals and a beaded necklace.
Despite some pretty hot temps, I kept cool in my new frock.
I hope this easy refashion gives you a little summer style inspiration!
Cheers!