From Neon Yellow to Green & Mellow
I originally discovered this comfy womfy fleece sweatshirt the week before it moved to the $1 clearance rack.
I can’t begin to describe how commmmfy and sofffffft the fabric on this one is you guys! I thought it would be perfect for the days following my next chemo treatment when I’d want nothing but soft fabrics and feel-good tv shows.
Then, I looked at the tag and realized it was only 50% off, not $1. 🙁
You guys, I can afford to spend $3 on a shirt. What is my problem????
Anywho, I put it back on the rack, along with my hopes of enveloping myself in its cozy warmth.
Much to my surprise, I saw it again the following week. This time it was marked down to $1! Huzzah! Victory was mine!
The one thing I couldn’t get over about this shirt was how freakishly BRIGHT it was.
As I have no current plans to pivot to a career in roadside construction, I needed to calm that safety yellow hue down.
For some reason, I thought it would be fun to incorporate this vintage Aigner oxford shirt I found for a $1 into this Refashion as well!
This shirt was sadly really pitted out and had lots of stains all over it.
I really only bought this shirt to repurpose the pocket, which I promptly used my seam ripper to remove.
Let’s dye it!
As I said before, I wanted to mellow that yellow, so I reached for these:
Unfortunately, I’d used the green boxed dye in a previous Refashion, so I didn’t have much leftover.
I was optimistic that mixing what I had left of the green with a bit of black would still get my shirt to green!
The label, however, didn’t do much to fuel this optimism.
Neither polyester nor spandex is very dye-able, but I decided to give it go anyways. Check out my post on why some fabrics dye better than others if you’d like a refresher.
With my fingers firmly crossed, I put my shirt and my pocket into their dye bath.
I only needed a bit of the dye to take…but would it?
The pocket took more of the dye than the shirt, but ended up purple instead of green!
I left my shirt and pocket in the bath for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, then rinsed them in my washing machine.
After the rinse, I was discouraged to note that while my shirt was now a softer green, it had weird streaks and spots, mostly along one side. 🙁
As this shirt wasn’t visibly stained before, I have no idea where these came from!
I was bummed, but I still really wanted this Refashion to work.
So, I figured I’d try to go for an intentionally splattered look on the rest of the shirt.
Let’s Dye it AGAIN!
I grabbed a plastic container and started wadding my shirt up into it, splattering some black dye between the folds as I went.
Once I was done, I gently poured boiling hot water into the container. I hoped the extra heat would help the dye set.
When I was done, it looked like this:
I let it sit in its bath for forty minutes, making sure to NOT stir it this time, as I wanted those dye spots to set in as much as possible.
After another rinse, I was pleased to note my shirt now at least looked a little more intentionally splotchy.
I wasn’t quite feeling the constriction of that turtleneck, so I chopped it off.
I left the edge raw, as I thought it would work well with the splotches on my shirt.
In a further attempt to make my shirt look like I meant for it to be a little disheveled-looking, I attached my pocket to the front at an angle.
Now for those cuffs!
In the before pic for this Refashion, you can see how the sleeves fall over my hands. I decided to shoot for a more blousy sleeve by taking the cuffs in a bit.
First, I turned my shirt inside-out and pinned each one.
Then, I stitched them down. If you’re doing this at home, you don’t need to worry about cutting off the extra fabric, as it’ll fold in just fine while you’re wearing it.
Here’s my super comfy shirt (and new wig) now!
What do you think of my new tresses?
And check out the back!
Okay…enough of my new Wigsona, and back to the Refashion.
While I’m not thrilled with how my dye job worked out, I’m still at least moderately satisfied with this Refashion as a whole. At least it isn’t such a glaring bright yellow anymore.
I like how the pocket looks, and it’s something I know I’ll end up getting lots of wears out of.
Cheers!
83 Comments
wendymc54
So perfect!! Ashley is so stunning
Jenny
Love, love, love this wig color on you! And love all your refashions!
Jamie Mann
That wig is beautiful on you! I love your dark hair but you look amazing as a blonde 🙂
Bonnie Grubisich
Love this refashion and the blonde wig!
Madeleine Alexis
Apparently you were meant to be blonde all along, because this look suits you perfectly. Where do you get your wigs by the way?
Jacqui
On my computer I see neon green in the before, the after is definitely mellower and the whole look is amazing. Glad you found a comfy top and love the pinky blonde wig, looks fabulous.
Kay
Ashleigh rocks that top! Now I’ll be looking for likely pockets when I thrift. It’s the perfect flip of style on a so cozy top. Love this one! Keep up the great spirit you’re sharing with all of us. Sending prayers and thanks for these make-my-day posts.
Jane
I love your sense of humor. I have little hope that my sewing skills would extend to the amazing refashions that you do, but I love reading your blog posts and there’s always something that makes me laugh.
Krystal
Jealous of your new comfy Shirt and like Ashleigh the best so far…or maybe I just want her white Jeep!?
Amy
Kudos on the refashion, it turned out great. And you look AWESOME in Ashleigh ❤️. I hope you are doing OK and as always you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Amy
Mary Lou
I love your hair! So alluring!
The shirt came out cute too
Keep Fighting the fight!
Kristine Mylett
First, I love the refashion. Second, I am tickled pink with your wigsonas. The descriptions are perfect. Ashleigh cracked me up.
Norma
Blonde hair looks great on you.
L Case
Maybe you won’t see this, maybe it won’t mean much. And that’s ok, I simply had to say this because you should hear it…I’d have wanted my mom to hear it. My mom had metastatic breast cancer. She wasn’t herself in her last few years – angry and distracted and sad and withdrawn…what you’d expect of someone battling cancer. I was young, 6, 7, 8 years old. I didn’t appreciate just how strong and brave she was. But now at 45 I see it. I see that her pain and human reactions and struggle are what made her brave and a warrior. And the fact that she loved her family and tried every time she could, that makes her a hero. The fact that she was still herself sometimes, that makes her a hero.
However you handle it – however my mom handled it – you are handling it. And that, in and of itself, makes you brave and someone to aspire to. Try not to sell yourself short, you are being brave and are an inspiration. You are human and you are making it through an awful situation. Sometimes, simply surviving is an act of bravery and inspiration.
Give yourself the credit you deserve. You are handling this with grace, your strength is inspiring. Smile at yourself in the mirror and pat yourself in the back – you deserve it!
Mea Cadwell
You look good as a blonde. And I like the shirt too.
Shelley Sellars-Smith
OK.. cool top.. but, when this is over and you are done kicking cancers ass.. you really need to consider going Blonde. Just saying… xoxo
Melanie Karwowski
You look fabulous in blonde! I really like the refashion. I once had a turquoise corderoy that was on the bright side. I soaked it in bleach and loved it.
Nancy Findley
You rock the new wig. It works really well for you. You are an amazing lady. My thoughts and blessings sent to you.
Sue
You are FABULOUS as a blonde. Shirt looks super comfy!
Jen
Cute Refashion! You look fantastic as a blonde. Love and prayers to you.
Holly
Love it and Ashleigh!!
Shoeknow
This!! This, sweet girl, is your look (hairwise)… what’s HER story=..
libbywick
Hi Ashleigh, rocking that look. Wow! I love it! I wasn’t sure you were doing the right thing with the pocket but it works so well.
Del Retta Galik
WELL Miss Ashley really takes the cake!! Suits you perfectly. Really brings out your eyes. I am one of the many that is quietly following you. I know a couple other younger ladies fighting forms of cancer. It is not easy but a positive attitude and a circle of online supporters is a good thing!!
HUGS!!
Selma
Cute top! And the wig looks great – how fun! Blessings to you. 🙂
Marie Z Johansen
You, my dear, are amazing! I have read your blog for years and have always admired your refashion work. My admiration has only grown in watching and reading about how you are facing this latest health struggle. You are an inspiration ! I send you thanks and light for healing.
Beth
This looks so comfy and you make everything look cute! That wig fits you perfectly. You are so beautiful! I LOVE to see what you come up with! Genius!!!!
Vicky
I love this refashion!!! I think you did a great job. It’s so cute and you look great in it. The wig is gorgeous on you too. Hugs from Canada!
Daggett Betty
That was a lot of work for so little sewing. Lol.but it turned out pretty cute. Love the wig on you.
Amy
Great refashion! The fit looks great and also looks super comfy! I am really enjoying meeting all the new girls ♀️♀️
D Helper
I think Ashleigh allows you to experiment with an entire new color palette. You look great! And may you feel as great as you look, or even better!!!
Susan Ann Huling
Love the wig on you!
Susan
That dollar was well spent…as much for the laughs as the fabulous refashion. Oh, and Ashley!
Susan
The wig is fabulous and I’m all about comfort. A win
TEMA
Love the ‘gentling’ of the green! (shows green on my machine)… not sure about the pocket, but what do I know… I’m old! 🙂
Janet Hasselblad
You and Ashleigh are hilarious!
Murielle
I think Ashleigh’s your girl! 🙂
I actually really like the refash. Wan’t sure I would as I’m not all about the dying, but I should know to trust you by now. You look adorable in it!
(((Gentle Hugs)))
Becky
Love Ashleigh, you make a beautiful blond!! Love the comfy shirt, perfect for chilly weather. Ill have to wait until Nov. as I live in Florida!! Keep smiling , keep fighting and all will be well!!
Kasia Stevens
Psyched that you got it for a dollar! It looks green in the photos. The hemline looks so much better–happenstance or planned? Do love this wig.
Veronica
This wig really suits you!
Patty Doscher
Love it and love you! Good luck with the rest of your chemo.
Emma Gibney
Fab refashion! I love your wig – super sassy. Hope you’re managing well with your treatment x
Melanie Griffin
I’m loving Ashleigh! You really pull off the blonde girl!
Jennifer
Love the refashion and that wig-amazing! I like you as a blond too:)
Robyn
Love the shirt and that hair is the bomb!
Jane
Very cute refashion. And the wig rocks too. Sending you warm hugs from north of the border.
Gina
Super cute!
Nelle Woodruff
What stitch do you use to take in the cuff so the stitches don’t pop when putting your hand through?
Susan T
My favorite wig! So fun. And that shirt? Wow! Lovin’ it.
Sydney Charnley
Hey, you make an ADORABLE blonde!!!
And your refashions ain’t bad either, lol!!!!!
Alison
I WANT that shirt. I think you just invented the new ‘off-center pocket’ trend!
When you’re a millionaire, just remember us – the little people
Cynthia Rice
Funtastic. You’re lookin good, love the ombré at the back of your ‘blonde’ personality. Go get em Tiger!(oops maybe you’re a Gamecocks fan.)
suntrou
omg I especially love everything about this one (ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧
Carol
You look great in the new top and wig. All your wigs look so natural. Willing to share brand names? Continued virtual hugs to you and Brian.
Sharon Hale
I love it!
Jen Huber
Girl, Ashley is where it’s at! I love it! I’ve totally been on a super-comfy sweatshirt kick too. I hope it’s cozy and comforting as you continue to kick cancer in the butt!
angandbazgmailcom
Looks great and so do you! Good luck with your next chemo x
Sarah L
I’ve never commented before, ever, but lurk n’ love from a distance. Ashleigh got me though– she’s glorious!! Purple pocket too.
Sara
Love it. Good luck with the treatment, wishing you an easy time and speedy recovery. Sara
Brandy Hallock
Love this refashion!! Super cute! I love Ashleigh! The new wig is adorbs. So pretty.
Nancy
Hi Jillian,
I think the refashion looks great! Will have to admit I was worried:) And you really look good as a blond!
So take care of yourself and keep on being you!!!
Nancy from Asheville
Cris
I think Ashleigh is my favorite.
LWC
Love the wig, AND the shirt refashion.
I identified perfectly with the notion that 3 bucks was just too much, and while I have sometimes missed out, there are always cute shirts to be found for a reasonable price, especially when you are also investing time and effort to make it great.
LWC
CATY
I love the descriptions of the wigs you put on. I did have a fright when I looked at the lady in the blonde wig and wondered who it was.
Jen
You look AMAZING!! X
Alice Sudduth
I love what you did but I don’t understand why the pocket turned purple!? Some kind of weird chemistry thing I guess. Hope your next treatment goes well and you find comfort in that shirt.
Laura
Love the refashion! You look awesome as a blond too ! Hope you are feeling better.
jo b.
Ashleigh looks great in that cool refashion! love to hear the ukulele! keep on rocking it!
Trysch
So much more beautiful without the wig, but I get it, I think.sorter hair is not as pretty as
O grr. Praying for your recovery.
bethnegrey
I think this turned out really cute! And it’s unusual to find someone who can rock both dark hair colour as well as blonde. And who has more incredible instincts for thrifting than anyone else I can think of. I’ve got a couple of dyeing projects I’ve been putting off (can’t recall having ever dyed anything…at least, not on purpose….). I’m saving this post as well to give me courage! Love and prayers from the Pacific NW!
Joan
You look fab as a blonde–and the shirt works too. Stay strong!!!
Sally
I like the idea of just going ahead and putting a pocket on there!
Pamela Taylor
Toned down just enough… Love the pocket! Nice touch. Saying a prayer for your continued strength. ❤
Rhonda
I absolutely love the blonde ombré on you and the characters are absolutely on point!
Karen G.
You and Ashleigh are both amazing, and the top is so cute!
Naomi N.
Love the angled pocket! At first I didn’t believe for a second that Ashleigh played the ukulele, but I’m starting to see it. Seriously, though, that wig is cute on you! You have great wig taste!
Angela R Lemming
I LOVE THIS ONE!! So easy and it turned out fantastic. Also, loving Ashleigh!!
Lauren Paul
You are amazing!! Love that your are posting about your treatment AND your refashions. Keep YOU.
Carmen L Cabrera
I think you managed that quite well. Sending you prayer vibes!
iamelaine
your wigsonas are the best. love this refashion and the fact that i discovered .99 Mondays at my Goodwill thanks to you!
Eleanor
You babe. The refash is fab and you are positively rockin’ the new dos!!! Hope that you are doing well, lots of love from the desert. XOXOX
ziggyseamstress
Beautiful! And the refashion is great, too!
mm1970
That’s really adorable