Soon It's Gonna Rain Tunic Dress Refashion

It has been raining here in Columbia. For days and days. When weather forecasts predicted flooding over the weekend, I packed a bag and fled to my fella’s place (which sits at a higher elevation than mine) to wait it out. I knew I’d be feeling a little stir-crazy from days stuck inside rather than hanging out with friends. Sure, I had a few ideas of things I could do to fight the rainy day blahs, but when I packed, I only packed refashionables! I figured it would be a good excuse for a challenge, as well as a boredom buster. 🙂

One such refashionable was this 80’s dress right here:

I saw the potential in this one right away. The dress is nice and warm, and I like those big batwing sleeves. It’s meant to be of generous fit, but even so, it was still too big for me. I didn’t like the length either. I saw this one becoming much shorter and paired with leggings for a cozy stay-at-home outfit.

Of course, since I wasn’t at my house, I had to complete this refashion with the few backup sewing supplies I had left there months ago (you never know when a sewing emergency will arise!) and without a dress form. Oh well! It’s all a part of the challenge!

First, I eyeballed this frock and decided I wanted to take it in 1.5 in on each side. I figured this would make the hips more fitted, but still leave the top free-fitting.

It took a little creative thinking, but I managed to measure and pin each side.

I got to pinning.

To complete this refashion, I had to rely on an old pal:

That’s right! It’s my old sewing machine! The one that started it all! Compared to my amazeballs new one, it’s clunky and unsophisticated…but today I was happy to have a backup.

Each side got stitched down, then I removed the excess fabric.

Snnnnipping with my second-best scissors!

Next, I chopped off a bit from the bottom.

A quick hem followed.

After a good press, my new dress was ready for a day of lounging in style!

This dress could easily be belted, but I actually like leaving the waist free. This would also be a flattering look for women who are more of an apple shape, as it plays up your legs, while the full sleeves help give balance.