 | Ruth Wegner can do alterations on suits and gowns, and even makes these items. Ruth is Owner/Operator of Everything Sew Sew located at 1615 N Walnut, Pittsburg KS. She does everything from dress alterations, leather, to custom made items. For more information or to reach Ruth please call 620-235-1280. Prom Season hours: Tues, Wed, Fri 9-5pm, Thursdays from 9-8pm, Saturdays appointments only. |
Sewing & Alterations
2012-03-23 11:01:48
What can I do with my vintage fashion finds?
Q: I am really into vintage fashion and recently bought a ton of beautiful outfits in an estate sale. They are a little big in places, but overall fit okay. I want them to fit as they were intended to fit though. Is it possible to alter vintage clothes without causing damage to the material? What else can I do with vintage finds that may not be wearable in their current condition?
A: Vintage clothing seems to be all the rage lately, do in part to the ability to find spectacular pieces online on sites like EBay and Etsy. In fact, many people make a business just out of buying and selling vintage clothing, so an estate sale find like yours is something very special.
With this increased popularity, there is also an increased interest in the very things about which you are asking. I will try to answer you as completely as possible and give you a few ideas to make those vintage pieces wearable.
First, if you would like to keep the pieces in the best condition as close to the original design as possible, it is possible to take in seams and make the piece more fitted. It is also possible to adjust pieces that are too small by taking the waistband off, add to the waist, and resew it back on. Also, I would open some of the darts and the bodice area, to enlarge the waist.
If the pieces have damage, it is still possible to work with what you have to create something new and retain that vintage flair. For example, it is possible to remake the dress in a different style or add ruffles to the bottom of a jacket. You may be able to have damaged parts removed from a full skirt and still have plenty of material left for a less full skirt. If the outfit has a tear in it, it is possible to sew a new piece of material in it to make a new look, and the same to the blouse or jacket. Another option is taking it apart and salvaging the material to create an entirely new, one-of-a-kind outfit with a cool vintage feel.
Finally, when only the smallest amount of material is usable, consider making accessories like scarves, belts, and purses. You could even save scraps to accessorize your home with dashes of vintage chic in the form of pillows.
Have fun with your vintage finds!
