Project #1: From Thrift-Store Denim to Finished Dress

Originally I planned my first sewing project to be a remodel of a denim jacket already in my wardrobe.  However, after I accumulated a stack of denim pieces from my local thrift stores, that plan changed.  Once I started "cannibalizing" those jackets and skirts, I discovered that one of the remaining carcasses was a perfectly good vest.  OK, so detour.  This post will show you how it came about.

Here is the vest that "appeared" when the sleeves were removed.  I like the dark wash and the sparkly  embellishments on the yoke, both front and back.

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I trimmed and measured the cut-off sleeves from this original jacket and one other to fit the hem of the vest.  There is some overlap, making kind of a kick-pleat situation.  I tried to match up seams as best I could, just for overall continuity.

There was some difference in denim color, but I like that.  

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The finished piece!  I used zippers from another jacket to overlay the front area where the skirt attaches.  I looks way better with this trim.  I also made bias trim for the armholes from a batik-print men's shirt, using the "wrong" side of the shirt back fabric.  You'll also see a tab on each side of the back at the hips made of the same fabric.  

Of course, I used some new jewelry to accessorize the dress.  And since I love layering, this denim garment will most likely be worn in my favorite look--a long-sleeved swing dress.  Black looks best (to me) with this dress, and I have several in this style to layer with other pieces in my wardrobe.  I get them on Amazon--they are perfect for this purpose.

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The back--couldn't leave well enough alone--had to be embellished.  You have to look good both coming and going.

I cut a pocket out of a star-printed denim skirt which coordinates well with the armhole trim.  

The patch at the neckline is from Secret Lentil--scraps from her original clothing that I purchased at her website.  Then I sewed on two buttons for texture.  Love the contrast in color here.

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Added a flowing oyster-color scarf along with the jewelry--my long necklace featuring a soft-solder pendant on textured, matte copper chain.  The jewelry coordinates well in color with the patch on the back.  I pick up details like that to tease the eye and enhance the interest.  You never know, I might want to twirl while wearing this!

Hope you enjoy seeing the steps I took over several days to create this piece.  Again, my inspiration is Wayward Threads . . . by Lorri Scott.  I've described this book in earlier posts.

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