Winter Snow and Plaid Skirt

 

Firstly, I hope that all of you are staying warm and toasty indoors.  My heart goes out to those who are struggling to find heat during this extremely frigid week.  

Growing up, our excitement for a snow day was always met with a tinge of sadness and concern for workers who were forced to drive to work on icy roads, elderly who may not have proper heating, or the homeless, living on the streets with nothing but the clothes on their backs.  Although my dream of a Winter wonderland came true, I am mindful that not everyone has the pleasure to enjoy a snowy day. 

Nonetheless...  My Christmas holiday was spent in the beautiful city of Cincinnati with my husband's family.  We left Hawaii longing for some Winter weather (I know - we're crazy and should be grateful for the warmth.  But one does love change every now and then).  Each day during our trip, we checked the weather with our fingers crossed for snow.  There was a light dusting on Christmas Eve, which we were thankful for, but the real blessing came on our last day in Cincinnati.  We awoke Thursday morning to a heavenly snowfall. Temperatures were not yet freezing, and we played and walked in the snow all day.  On more than one occasion, I found myself standing on the sidewalk, gazing at the flakes coming down and not wanting to go inside - ever.  I hadn't experienced a snow like that in probably fifteen years.  It was truly magical. 

I do, however, feel very lucky that I was soon able to get on a plane and head back to warmer weather. 

Knowing that I would be staying in Cincinnati for over two weeks, I began working on a winter refashioned wardrobe, starting back in November.  One refashion that I particularly love is a wool cardigan that was transformed into a skirt.  Unfortunately, I don't have many process photos to show you.  I was in such a hurry to complete it that I forgot to take pictures.  In fact, this skirt was completed only hours before we boarded the plane. 

I snagged this plaid wool cardigan at an estate sale for $0.25.  Can you believe that?  What a steal!

Originally, I had envisioned this cardi becoming a stylish vest.  However, I just couldn't seem to make it work.  It just felt outdated.  Right when I was about to run out of ideas, a light bulb went on. I cut the neck and sleeves off and removed the buttons. 

This photo was taken before the sleeves were cut.

I took in the sides and folded the ends over at a diagonal.  I then cut the top off of an old black maxi skirt and sewed it the top of the wool cardi. Lastly, I resewed the buttons down the side at a diagonal. 

Like magic!  This cardi was transformed into a...

Super cute and trendy winter skirt!  I love it, but I am going to send it to my sister in Oklahoma, who will likely get more use out of it.