The Fixer-Upper, or Why Every Fashionista Should Sew

I’ve taken to having the occasional “fixer-upper” project on the go – a tired out garment from my own wardrobe or that I might have foraged out of a charity shop that, with a bit of nipping and tucking, could be wonderful again. Having a few alteration techniques hidden up her perfectly tailored sleeve is a useful trick for any clothes hound.

I found this pastel print dress a few weeks ago looking pretty sad. Long sleeves that tapered to the wrist and puffed up at the shoulder, supported by a stonking pair of shoulder pads. The skirt flared from hip to ankle, with a bodice that was about four sizes too big for anyone. At some point its previous owner had decided that the combination of long skirt, dropped waist and shoulder pads just didn’t have the rad factor any more, and they brought it to the YMCA. Where who should come across it but a PhD student, bored with thesis writing and enjoying a cheeky lunchtime shopping trip. And who had incidentally, just been browsing some fantastic pastel colour spreads in US Harpers Bazaar, and saw the potential of an eclectic pastel pattern for this spring. I took it home, got out my sewing box and got to work.

One hour, two sleeves and some shoulder pads removed, skirt adjusted and waistband moved up, and rad factor was restored. The hem has come out a little uneven, but I’ve decided to refer to it as “asymmetric” (i.e. an intentional design feature) rather than wonky!

I’m sorry I don’t have any “before” photos. But Chris pointed out that if I had taken some then transforming the dress would probably have been a disaster! Next time I start a fixer-upper, I’ll be sure to document it properly. Watch out for this dress in an upcoming outfit post – I have a mint green jumper that is just dying to join in the pastel fun.

Feeling tempted to take on a fixer-upper project? I’d love to hear about your triumphs/failures! x