Summer Isn't Over Yet.

Happy times at the pool.  "Throw me again, Daddy!"  This kid is a little fish.  Already swimming and growing up so fast. 

So... Surprise!  I actually finished a refashion, and here I am posting again this month.  Remember this dress? 

It's been hot and humid here - uncomfortable for Hawaii.  I've been wearing the most airy clothes I can find, and this refashion came at just the right time.  I started with this dress. 

This Tori Richard dress came to me through a consignment shop.  I found it on the rack with the tags on, and couldn't believe that it was only $20 (retailing for $125).  Then I tried it on and realized why it was such a deal.  There were holes on the bottom half.  When I showed the owner, she insisted on giving it to me for free.

I tried to wear it as is, but it wasn't so comfortable and a little loose in the bust. It was a prime candidate for a 60's style summer dress.

I used my 60's dress as a pattern and cut a V and armholes in the bottom section of the Tori Richard.

I then used the top part of the 60's dress to draw a pattern for the neckline and sleeves.

There wasn't enough fabric for two layers, so I used one of my husband's old shirts for the neckline and sleeve lining.  Can you believe he was going to throw it away?

I made the back pattern section a bit longer than the front so that the shoulders would hang nicely. 

I used what was left of the top to make the outer layer of the neckline and sleeves. 

Ugh!  Sometimes I don't think things through very well.  I cut two of the same piece.  I ended up having to sew scraps together so that I could cut another piece. 

Good thing it's a busy pattern. 

I added interfacing to the outer layer. 

In the next sections, you'll see that I stitched the lining to the outer layer.

I ironed them down. 

I then stitched the front and back together. 

And flipped them inside out.  

I sewed the front and back together at an angle. 

And sewed it to the dress. 

I added bias tape around the armholes and patched the holes.  Once I figured out the pattern, this dress was super easy to make.  I love it!!!

So much more practical. Oh!  And I got the DKNY slippers at a garage sale for $3.  Score!

 

May your remaining summer days be blessed.

60's Style at Hawaii's Biggest Little Air Show

I picked up this vintage Hawaii-made dress a while back at Salvation Army for about $10.  I know... I splurged!  I really loved the pattern and print, and over the years it's been my go-to dress on hot summer days.  

In fact, it turned out to be a superb choice for a day out at Hawaii's Biggest Little Air Show.  The family had a wonderful day  at Ford Island watching the most amazing miniature planes zoom through the sky.  It was a little boy's dream.  Hanger 79 was open to the public, and the kids (and adults) got to sit in the old war planes. 

I have to say - it was pretty cool.  However it was a rather warm day, and I found myself thinking, "I wish I had a few more of these comfy, lightweight dresses."  And then it dawned on me!  I could make my own pattern and refashion one of my old dresses!  A Pacific print Tori Richard maxi dress immediately came to mind.

Therefore, I'm onto another refashion.  So far, I have a pattern sort of cut out, and after I work through a few more bumps, I should have it ready to post soon.  Be on the look out!

Now for something else.  As you've noticed, I've been a little MIA - again.  My absence is nothing new.  If you haven't figured it out yet, I'm not the best at balancing work, family and hobby.  School has started, and I'm in a new position as curriculum coordinator for my school.

I absolutely love my new job.  I am learning that I have a strong passion for helping teachers.  It's quite the learning curve, but I am definitely up for the challenge.  With this said, I'm wondering when I'll have time to keep up with my sewing and blog.

As much as I am passionate about helping teachers, I'm passionate about refashioning.  It's a part of me that I can't let go.  I am planning to post at least once a month and hopefully more.  For the time being, this is all I can offer.  I really hope that you'll continue to follow me.  I really love all of your feedback and stories. 

  

Marimekko Refashion

It was a beautiful Spring weekend, complete with rainbows, sunsets, and a trip to the zoo.  My son dressed himself, including the jewelry.  I love his quirky style.  We dyed Easter eggs and made this yummy kiwi ice cream.  Amidst all of the Easter buzz, I was able to refashion this dress...

Note:  I have no idea what is going on with my photos.  They keep disappearing, and I don't know how to get them to stay on the page.  I apologize for these technical difficulties. 

I picked it up for free at a clothing swap.  The Marimekko fabric entranced me.  Unfortunately, it was a bit too small, and the straps around the chest area were a little awkward.

Outdated Button Up to Stylish Tunic Remake

Sadly, Spring Break has come to an end.  I had a lovely time hanging out with my little buddy.  We were able to catch some amazing sunrises.  

 

 

 

Surprisingly, I was able to find some time to refashion.  It felt really good to complete a few projects that have been lingering for a while.  One of which is a silk plaid top remake.  I found this silk top at a Goodwill in Cincinnati over Winter break for $2. I just couldn't get over the funky plaid print.

But...  as you can see, it was a little outdated for my taste.  In truth, I wasn't sure I would be able to update this number.  Not really knowing where to start, I removed the enormous shoulder pads and seam ripped the sleeves and collar.