Refashion: Trousers into a Dress

I initially started this refashion seven months ago, but shoved it in a cupboard when I couldn’t make it work. Thankfully the space helped me do a rethink.

When I hauled this back out of the cupboard again, I conceded that the intended playsuit wasn’t feasible and so set about making it into a dress instead.

Unpick the elastic waistband and all the seams

Then use a sewing pattern to create the bodice from the bottom of the pants and utilize the hip pockets to make the skirt.

From this point, it’s less tutorial-ish and more of a general this-is-what-I-did, because in all honesty … I totally winged it. Sorry, it’s not very helpful for any newbie sewers! But, essentially stitch it all together, gathering the skirt to fit and inserting a zip into the back, then make a bajillion little tweaks by constantly trying it on and then fixing areas that don’t fit right, eg., cinch in the seams, alter darts, lower necklines etc. Real general, I know! Sorry. But everyone is different and the alterations you make will be individual to you.

I love the low back and the way it hugs in at the waist. Not to mention those industrial size pockets in the front. It’s ultra relaxed but every now and then I like to grunge it up a little with a cropped leather-look jacket and layered necklace.

It’s casual, yet feminine. A little flirty but relaxed and effortless. Perfect!