I have two dresses, one black, and one olive, that are HUGE in the waist, and too short for my frame. I’m wondering if I added straps across the back, if it would bring it in a bit, and then add something for length. They also happen to be different sizes (curse charts online!), and I struck out both times .
Both colors are the exact same style, but the olive shows up better in photos. I’m even wondering if I should turn them into tank tops. Anything would be better! Thanks for any help!
If you’ve got two, you can try out two different ideas!
I guess it depends what kind of look and fit you want. If you like a tiered dress, one easy option would be to add a gathered skirt - maybe two gathered tiers - and make a simple tie belt or sash to bring in the waist. Or wear with a belt you already have. Kind of boho style depending on the coordinating fabric you choose?
Tiered! How did I forget that was an option? That sounds like a great idea for the black one (my errors may blend in better ). I’m imagining using up some pretty fun neon leopard print knit! It reminds me of Lisa Frank, right up my alley!
Also, taking a dress like this in at the waist is easy. When the dress is inside out, the side seams look like this at the waist: | . Just sew a seam right next to the side seam that looks a bit more like this: ) .
I may do that to the other! My sewing machine is so sad that I don’t use it enough!
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AIMR
(Linda -In the year 2025, I am happy to be alive! :us:)
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You have two nice basic pieces that can be the starting point for making them yours! Can’t wait to see what you do!
Nothing seems to fit these days…sizes are all over the place. But, just taking them in a bit at the waist will give a nicer shape for sure! I like your idea of adding a strap across the back or even some sort of lace-up/corset feature. You could use a print to add a bit of color or try to find matching fabric/ribbon.
Neon leopard print? Awesome. I am also a Lisa Frank fan!!