Friday 19 July 2013

Do It Yourself!

Being a fashion and textiles student plus a HUGE follower of DIY fashion, it's so nice to see dressmaking providing an innovative platform for anybody, of any level. There is so much inspiration around as of late, from a range of accessible sources and you don't even need to leave the house to get creative. Make do and mend is an attitude that I definitely consider and encourage within my own wardrobe. 

Having the satisfaction of saying that you were able to fix or create something yourself is such a feeling and even if you aren't skilled in the technical side of dressmaking, there are so many tutorials out there on YouTube and other fashion blogs that can help you begin and ultimately develop. The throwaway culture within the fashion industry mainly accounts for the disposal of old and unworn clothing, which are replaced with more innovative styles. Though instead of throwing away all unworn clothing, we can take designer/high street inspiration by customising and creating new pieces from such clothing, yet something that can also be turned into an item that becomes totally original. 

Scouring social media for research is something I'm always inputting into my degree work and I've been inspired by the creativity and uniqueness of those who take part in DIY fashion. The one thing I really admire is how different and creative every person is. There is obvious inspiration from current industry trends and that's why I love picking up on this and turning already owned items into innovative pieces. I was going to share some of my favourite DIY focused blogs but there are just too many to choose from! However, P.S.- I made this... is probably my favourite. Some of the projects are so simple yet effective and on trend, with the added bonus of video tutorials providing an extra walkthrough whilst you carry out the project. Pinterest is also a great source of inspiration which brings up a multitude of DIY results from fashion, textiles/craft and homeware.

Below are some ideas from P.S.- I made this... and other inspiration from across the Internet. 

I'm hoping to try out a DIY sunglasses project as I'm currently living in a beautiful heatwave so I'll post a tutorial sometime soon! xo




The two tone trend is everywhere; from fingers, to frocks to locks…but why stop there? When it comes to fun in the sun, two is always better than one…so grab a friend and that bin of bright nail polishes (we know you have one) to add some shade to your shades! Watch this DIY go down on our new series on StyleList.com, "Pretty Savvy" presented by Jeep! Get inspired all Summer long as Erica presents a collection of j’amazing new projects; from fresh fashions to artsy accessories and more.  



To create: Use paper tape to separate the top half from the bottom of the sunglasses. Using your first nail polish color, paint on an even layer onto the top half of the sunglasses. If the lacquer appears opaque, paint an additional layer. Remove the tape and paint the bottom half with an alternate nail polish color. For a glossy finish, apply a top coat.

 
This summer enter the “Pretty Savvy" Sweepstakes for the chance to win a weekly prize of $500 and a Grand Prize of $1,000! Click here to find out all the details!

 
Get down with DIY and a dope playlist
CLICK HERE for the P.S.- I made this…Playlist
Curated by The Jane Doze


To all the ladies in the place with style & grace…what’s better for turning a smart pair of shorts into a summertime staple than a little bit of lace? Let’s face it, you can’t wear your favorite jean cut-offs every day…so take a cue from Rag & Bone, who prove that a touch of this delicate fabric can add ladylike charm while maintaining a smart & stylish feel. Join us along with Who What Wear as we start the season off right with this sweet & sassy finish! 



To create: Cut two pieces of lace trim long enough to wrap around each leg opening with fabric scissors. Fasten trim to the inside of the shorts with straight pins. Lastly, sew the trim to the inside of the shorts to secure using a needle and thread. 

 
Get down with DIY and a dope playlist
CLICK HERE for the P.S.- I made this..Playlist
Curated by The Jane Doze




Dots, dots, lots of dots!  The power of the polka dot is proving to be one of the strongest trends for Fall/Winter.  While some may dance the polka, you may want to wear it on your sleeve. Marc Jacobs FW11 Collection fused the classic black & white combo with darling dots from head to toe, which is our DIY inspiration.  Only Marc could dream up this over-the-top pop of polka, reinventing a classic look with a modern twist. 
It’s on: Reach for fusible fabric which is available at most fabric stores.  You can also purchase online.  BONUS—Its’s very inexpensive!  Trace your polka dot pattern on paper.  I suggest using a bottom of a cup or any other circle you may have.  Cut out the pattern and place on top of fusible fabric.  To speed up the dot cutting, fold the material back and forth, which will result in multiple dots cut.  After you have cut out a bunch ‘o dots, place them a straight line on a white cotton tee shirt.  P.S.- Use a ruler or straight edge to help keep them in line.  Make sure you place them adhesive side down.  Feel free to have the dots go off the tee shirts edges, you can trim at the end.  Row by row, iron as you go- making sure the dots are totally fused on.  Once all the dots are adhered to the tee, use scissors to trim the hanging material. 
You may want to wash, for the first go ahead, and hang to dry. Keep some extra dots on hand incase you have any fallen soldiers aka, polka dots. Dance the polka… don the dots!



Mayday…Mayday…Summer is approaching in a big, big way and your wardrobe is in need of a fresh coat of paint - literally! The days ahead are easy breezy, so step into the season with a fresh and colorful outlook. Block out some time for this DIY that mixes simple-chic style with bold n’ bright hues.




To create: Use gaff tape to section off the cuffs, collar, pocket and button line of your button down shirt. Pour a small amount of fabric spray into a paint dish, then use a foam brush to apply a thin layer to the cuffs of your shirt. Choose two other colors, then repeat the process on the rest of the blocked off sections. Once dry, remove the tape and join the color-block trend! 

 
Get down with DIY and a dope playlist
CLICK HERE for the P.S.- I made this..Playlist
Curated by The Jane Doze






















                                                     



A PAIR AND A SPARE DIY DIP DYE SKIRT





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