As summer has come to an end I wanted to share with you a few mending and alterations projects I did for clients over the past few months. People come to me with various issues and I thought it would be fun to share how it’s possible to transform a piece that is loved but whatever reason, is not wearable. Here are four before and after projects done over the course of the summer.
Mending a Vintage Denim Jacket
This 90s denim jacket was in serious need of TLC. The elbows were ripped to shreds and the collar was split at the fold. For this project, I decided to use two different techniques: for the elbows, I added inner patches in a darker denim. This is a technique which I have shared on a previous post. For the collar I used a large zig-zag stitching pattern that secured the top layer to the bottom.
Both mending techniques reinforced the worn areas while keeping the signs of wear of the jacket intact. Those worn details that come from years of wear and tear just can’t be replicated as well on new “worn out” pieces.
Alteration Of A Summer Dress
My client fell in love with this beautiful bohemian dress that was sold online. Unfortunately, when it arrived, she realized it was much too long and slightly bulky for her 5ft2 frame.
Because the gathered bottom hem is integral to the design of the dress, I didn’t want to shorten it from the bottom and lose the gorgeous volume. Instead, I removed a section of the middle part which was more basic and left the bottom hem intact. I also decided to remove the bulky look by turning the elbow sleeves into cap sleeves. This is a much more flattering line for my client’s figure.
Alteration Of A Denim Vest
In a recent blog post, I shared with you how I enlarged my favourite pair of skinny jeans by adding side strips. Well for this project I used the same technique to enlarge a loved denim vest in order to fit my client’s changing body.
This is not only an alteration, but also an upcycled project since we used the fabric of an old denim skirt my client owned to do the extension. The two tone detailing on the side now acts not only as an extension piece but a design feature of this renewed vest.
Alteration of a Linen Jacket
Last but not least, is the amazing transformation of this linen jacket from 3/4 length to bolero top.
My client loved the pattern and lightness of this thrift find however she wasn’t fond of the length. She asked me if I could shorten it to the waist. I think it was the perfect idea to make this piece look fresh and modern. Worn over slim or palazzo jeans and a white or black camisole this is now the perfect chic piece for a night out.
Do you have loved pieces in need of mending or alterations? Contact me for a free in house consultation.