Modestify

New Direction

2010-03-25T12:49:00.002-06:00

Hey everyone - yes, I realize it has been a long long long time since I've blogged here. And I am really sorry about that. I'm totally flattered that I even have followers on this blog, and if any of you are still hoping for posts on here I have some bad but good news for you.
My interests have shifted since I started this blog, and while I'm still very committed to modest fashions, I've realized I'm really not much of a fashionista. I'm more of a crafty girl, and some of that crafting involves clothing, but more of it involves the greater craft world at large. So, I started a new blog that expands the focus of this blog. I hope you'll check it out, and enjoy it as much as you've enjoyed this one.

http://everythingniceblog.blogspot.com/

My DIY Nursery

2009-07-30T02:33:00.001-06:00

So, this is a big first for me (and a bit of a departure from this blog's usual content) - I'm linking up to the DIY Thursday party over at A Soft Place to Land. I have been a blog stalker over there for quite some time - I think I've pretty much read every post she's ever written - and I've gotten a lot of inspiration. And I've been using a lot of the inspiration I find there (and the Nesting Place and Centsational Girl and Thrifty Decor Chick and... the list goes on) to put together the nursery for Andy (due date is just a week and a half away!!). So, without further ado, here are all the projects I've been working on:

First an overview (you'll probably have to click on the picture to enlarge it if you really want to read my clever in-picture commentary.) :

My inspiration for the whole room was (were? I hate antecedents. I think it's was.) these three prints I found as I was wandering around on etsy. (They can be found in Gumball Grenade's etsy shop.)

I fell in love with them and knew I had to have them. Once I decided to base the whole nursery theme around them, though, I found that there really wasn't a lot out there in the baby realm to complement them, which necessitated many DIY projects - which suits me just fine.

So here are some of the projects I did:

I would have loved to have these prints custom framed, but I'm cheap and working on a small budget, so I bought those super cheap unfinished wood frames at Ikea ($2/per I think?), painted them, and then made "mats" out of scrapbook paper. They deserve so much better, but for now this will have to do.

Also in this picture you can see my shelves that I painted (same color as the blue frame). They look better in person. Really, they look better than the unfinished wood condition that I bought them in. So that's always good.

Here you can see the quilt that I made- it's a rag/shag quilt and it's fairly simple. Just blocks of color that echo the colors in the paintings. I also made that dust ruffle out of a plain red flat sheet I found at DI (like Goodwill). I just ripped two long pieces from it and sewed them together. The bottom was already hemmed hallelujah, and then I just tucked it around under the mattress in a ruffly sort of way. Totally pleased with myself there. Oh, any opinions - to bumper or not to bumper? I'm tempted to make one, but then I keep hearing how you shouldn't use them. Thoughts?

And here's the mobile I made using this tutorial. It uses the red, white, blue, and yellow motif from the paintings (and the rest of the room) and also the sail boat that is in one of the three prints. I like it. It's not amazing, but it's kinda cute.

And, my piece de resistance, the window "mistreatment" ala Nester. When I bought sheets for the crib (from Ikea) I was saddened to find that one of them had a hole in it. I couldn't be bothered to take them back (I'd lost the receipt and Ikea is a bit far away), so I racked my brain thinking what I could do with them. Then, after seeing several curtains and window treatments, I finally hit upon the idea of this, my own window mistreatment. I used 1/2 yard of 50" dark blue fabric for the top, the rest of the red flat sheet (from the dust ruffle) for the trim and ties, the crib sheet (that's the big blue part), and - as the lining - a curtain from Savers that I originally bought for the room and discovered was too small. Oh yeah, and some left over yellow fabric from the quilt, which I used to make the stars to cover the hole in the sheet. Whew. I only sewed one seam (across the top). Everything else I did with hemming tape, which I loved because I have issues sewing straight lines, especially when the fabrics are all different textures (that crib sheet was danged stretchy). Oh yeah, and of course I used the glue gun. How could I not?

Last of all, some advice? This room is doubling (tripling? quadrupling? It's also my office and craft space.) as a guest room while my mom stays with us for a month or so after the baby's born (thanks Mom, you are the best). I feel like that wall needs something, but I don't know what. I've got four prints by the same artist who did the sail boat painting over the bed - they are gorgeous prints of Greece, but they don't really go with the nursery. I was also thinking of doing an alphabet wall, but then I'm worried things will get too busy in the space ... and also that it isn't fitting for the "guest room" zone of the room. Any ideas? Should I just leave it? Really, I should just leave it, seeing as 1.) The guest room will only exist for the month that Mom is here and 2.) we're looking to move out of this apartment (I wonder why?) and into a house in the next few months, so it's probably just not worth the aggravation. Still open to suggestions though.

Anyway, thanks for looking at my DIY Nursery :)

Tutorial Tuesday: Feather Hairpieces

2009-04-07T08:00:00.000-06:00

So, yesterday I offered up the idea of using fascinators to spice up a simple dress to make it into a prom-ready ensemble. In that post I claimed you could easily and cheaply make one yourself. Well, just to prove it to you I found two tutorials that will show you how you can make yourself a lovely fascinator, for prom or any other fancy occasion you may be attending.

First a video from threadbanger, mostly utilizing feathers.

And second, a link to a photo tutorial from corvus tristis showing how to use feathers with flowers and ribbons to make a gorgeous hair accessory sure to sparkle.

Modestify Your Prom: Episode 2

2009-04-06T14:22:00.004-06:00

Today we're going to talk about modestifying the price of prom. Yes, prom is an important night - honestly, it's probably the last time in your life when you'll be participating in such a unique social engagement. Sure, there are formal dances in college, but trust me - they are very different. So, yes indeed, you want prom to be special and you want to go ahead and splurge in all sorts of ways that make you feel like a princess. Or a fairy. Or a flapper. Or whatever you most want to feel like. It's your prom.

But at the same time, the expense of all this splurging can get to be overwhelming and leave you feeling more like a pauper than a princess - the little match girl left on the street. But there are tons of ways to go all Cinderella, even without the fairy godmother.

First, the dress. Here's a definitely awesome tip from Cinderella and her little furry friends: use your existing resources to make or modify an existing dress. Go through your closet, your sister's closet (if you have the sharing kind of sister), your mom's closet, and the ever-wonderful thrift store to find a dress that may not be perfect at first glance but can be made perfect with a few adjustments. For example, take a simple dress and add embellishments that will glam it up for your night of glory.

Here are some of my ideas for how to make something simple into something fabulous:

Glam it Up by CherryTree84 featuring Betsey Johnson necklaces

In this set, I used the classic tiara, some high-heeled mary janes, a multi-string necklace, and fingerless lace gloves to turn a simple silver dress into one worthy for prom. So take a second look at your Sunday dresses and try to imagine what they might be like with a little help from the accessory department.

Glam it Up 2 by CherryTree84 featuring Tarina Tarantino necklaces

For this one, I've added a splash of pink to this little black dress with some oh-so-girly pink heels and a pink beaded necklace. I absolutely adore that black lace headband which you could totally make yourself after a trip to the craft store. And of course, the clutch purse to tie the whole girly ensemble together.

Glam it up 3 by CherryTree84 featuring Carvela heels & wedges

This one is the one I am most proud of. That dress is way simple and not something you'd normally see and think "prom." But then we add some unique elements - the feather fascinator headband (again an easy and creative accessory you could make yourself), the wrap belt with the lovely bow (think long black strip of fabric wrapped around several times), some kicky heels, and finally some black fingerless lace gloves. Neat eh?

Hope this gave you some ideas on how to take something simple and turn it into something uniquely inspired, totally you, and prom-ready. Stay tuned for further episodes on modestifying the price of prom in other ways.

Tutorial Tuesday: Flower Headbands

2009-03-31T08:00:00.000-06:00

So, playing around on polyvore.com (which I'm sure will be a new favorite pastime), I've seen tons of headbands that just make me squeal in girlish delight. Bows, flowers, hearts - all such sweet little embellishments that have me thinking spring and wishing I had even a single headband in my collection. Well, I found a tutorial that just might help me (and you) out - DesignMom gives us an easy-to-follow tutorial on how to make a sweet flowery headband that's sure to compliment all your modest spring outfits.

Modestify Your Prom: Episode 1

2009-03-30T08:00:00.000-06:00

Love a prom dress that isn't perfectly modest? Don't worry, you have options. Here's a dress worthy for prom, with a plethora of additions that would make it worthy for you. My favorites? The metallic ruffle shrug and the red willow top (to be worn under the dress, of course). Bonus- if you like what you see here, most of these combinations would end up costing you less than 100 dollars. Being modest isn't as difficult as you thought, huh?

Post Options
You Have Options - by CherryTree84 on Polyvore.com

Creating a Modest Wardrobe with Polyvore

2009-03-27T08:00:00.004-06:00

Wow, I just found a site that is way too addictive, though definitely worth it. Polyvore.com lets you search through hundreds of different fashion elements - shirts, skirts, dresses, jeans, shoes, accessories, everything you can dream of - and choose your favorites to arrange in various artful creations. You can choose clothes from just certain sites or you can browse the web finding anything and everything. It's the ultimate window shopping experience. Then if you find something you really like and actually want to own, it actually links you up with the site that sells that item of clothing and you can just... buy it. Neat huh?

Here's one of my creations - a modest outfit put together for the happily pregnant me. Of course, I can't afford most of the stuff I chose, but I figure I can use it for inspiration when sewing or actually shopping. Check out what I made, then go make your own. :)

Preggie Pretty - by CherryTree84 on Polyvore.com

Whoa-Resources

2009-03-26T09:55:00.003-06:00

Sorry for the lack of postage lately - big things have been going on in the personal life department. Biggest news - we found out we're having a boy! We are so excited to welcome our little boy into the world, I can't believe I still have to wait five months. (Saying phrases like "our little boy" "my son" - wow, that gives such a thrill.)
In other not-so-big news I am getting a serger soon and the anticipation is killing me. I am really looking forward to playing with this new machine and having more options for making my own (modest) clothing. Hopefully there will be some fun tutorials/giveaways coming up.

But back to the modestifying stuff. I was going link crazy today and found some pretty neat things. Started out on Meal Planning Mommies (which for you cooks out there, mommies or not, is an amazing resource), then skipped from there over to Joy in Every Step, and from there to The Stay-at-Home Missionary (both extremely uplifting blogs), who led me to Beautifully Adorned (now we're getting into the fashion stuff), who finally led me to The Modest Fashion Bloggers Network. There you have it. The site provides links to blogs focusing on modest fashions and promoting modesty and femininity. They also have a shopping list of sites that provide modest fashions and information about events going on in the world of modest fashion. So go check it out and enjoy!

Prom Highlight: Good Deals at JenClothing

2009-03-18T08:00:00.002-06:00

So, prom is just around the corner and I know that when I was in high school this is about the time I'd start flipping through magazines looking for the perfect modest prom dress. I never found one, by the way, but my misfortune doesn't have to be yours. These days, with so many options on the internet and so many resources for learning to modify what's out there, you don't have to settle for something you don't love and you certainly don't have to discard your standards.

My biggest problem way back in '01 searching for a promdress, was that I could find modest but I could not find affordable. I'm sorry, 500 dollars for a prom dress was simply ridiculous. But today there are a lot more options of the affordable variety and today I'd like to point out just one of them.

JenClothing is currently having a sale on all their prom dresses. The priciest one they've got is $150, and the majority rest somewhere around $85. Add free shipping during the month of March, and you've got a pretty good deal.

Here are a few of my picks:

It's classy, it's simple, and I have a thing for the ruched waist. It's on sale for $87.95 and you can find it here.

This one is in their new arrivals section, and it's a little pricier at $149.95, but if you're ok with paying a little bit more, I think this dress is perfectly lovely. It's modest and elegant and can make any girl feel like a princess. Find it here.

If you're going for something a little less formal, and more fun and flirty, this is a great dress. The pricetag is a modest $69.95 and you could totally glam it up with some fancy accessories. Find it here.

Jen's got tons more, so go check out JenClothing's modest prom dresses, and see if you can find your dream dress there. Good luck! :)

Tutorial Tuesday: Wrap Pants

2009-03-17T08:00:00.000-06:00

Easy, breezy, beautiful... wrap pants. I found this tutorial by Laupre on how to make these awesome wrap pants that look to be divinely comfortable. They're versatile, unique, comfortable - and, our favorite, modest. Click here for the tutorial. Or, if you would rather shop than sew, you could probably order some from her Etsy shop. I'll also take this opportunity to highlight a few of the other delightful items she has available in her shop right now.

Exhibit A: This adorable shrug, currently on sale for $16.00

Exhibit B: This fun, almost patchwork-esque shirt for $27.00

Exhibit C: In the accessory category, this purse has totally captured my heart.

So go check out Laupre, and maybe make yourself some pants!

Mommy Monday: Baby Pod

2009-03-16T08:00:00.000-06:00

Of course I had to include something from my friends on Threadbanger. I love those guys, truly. A while back, they created this awesome video tutorial on how to make a baby pod from an old, soft sweatshirt. It's a slightly more complicated project, but should take more than a few hours and you can customize it however you like. Lots of fun possibilities with this one. Without further ado, the video:

Tutorial Tuesday: Sweater to Bag

2009-03-10T08:00:00.000-06:00

So, I've decided that winter is officially over. I'm sick of it, and I am ready for spring. Therefore, it's time to chop up those old sweaters and not look back! Cindygert (fiber fashioned with flair) has created a brilliant tutorial for how to turn a winter sweater into a purse perfect for the transition between winter and spring. Enjoy! Click here for the tutorial.

Mommy Monday: Easy Peasy Bibs

2009-03-09T08:00:00.000-06:00

The Purl Bee is usually about a lot of knitting, which sadly I am not able to do, but happily I found an awesome tutorial on their site on how to make a big using bias tape and some fleece. Looks like fun and would make an awesome gift for a baby shower, new mom, first birthday, whatever.

Click here for the tutorial.

2009-03-05T09:26:00.001-07:00

How to Dress Like Penelope

2009-03-04T13:49:00.013-07:00

Ok, I know this movie came out over a year ago but I just watched it again on Netflix instant play and again was enchanted by the set design and wardrobe. It may not be the best movie I've ever seen, but every time I watch it I think "I want to live in that movie." I want those colors all around me, I want those plants in their terrariums, I want that swing in my bedroom for goodness sake. But the thing that enchants me most of all, I think, is Penelope's wardrobe. There's something classy and classic about it, yet at the same time something original and personal. And best of all, the majority of what she wears is modest - tasteful and classic.

The first time I watched this movie, upon arriving home, I immediately jumped on the ol' internet and searched desperately for any pictures I could find that could give me inspiration in recreating this look for myself. (With my own personal touches of course - as much as I love skirts, I just can't give up my jeans.) Nothing. There was like ONE picture of Penelope online - her in that adorable coat. But even though it was adorable, it just wasn't enough. So, after watching Penelope again, I tried again - even harder - to find some pictures and get some ideas of what makes Penelope's wardrobe so enchanting. Finally I found some. Here they are:

Yep, all three screenshots I could find. But, still, I did gain some insight into the style and I wanted to share some major points of what makes Penelope's wardrobe so great, and how to recreate it, or elements of it, for yourself:

a.) Colors - For most of the movie, Penelope dresses in vibrant but muted jewel tones: reds, greens, browns, blues. They have a sort of saturated feel that makes things feel older, classier, somehow.

b.) Skirts - I don't think Penelope wears any pants in this movie. She mostly wears knee-length skirts and dresses with coordinating tights and shoes. In the last scene of the movie she's wearing a blue dress with blue tights and blue shoes. How I love it. In all, her clothing is sweet and very feminine.

c.) Embellishents - Again, with the feminine - many of the shirts Penelope wears are embellished with very feminine elements like beaded flowers, ribbons, ruffles, puffed sleeves, and my personal favorite - buttons.

d.) Shoes - Penelope wears these adorable, solid-colored, heeled Mary Janes throughout the movie. They usually coordinate perfectly with whatever tights she's wearing.

So, while everyone else has moved on, I've finally cracked the code to Penelope's clothes ;) I think we all need to find our style inspiration and wear things that make us feel unique and beautiful in a modest way. Who are your style icons?

Tutorial Tuesday: Muumuu Top

2009-03-03T08:00:00.001-07:00

Today's tutorial is another from our friends at Stitch Lounge - this time a refashioning adventure! It's a slightly more complicated project than the ten-minute top, but the results will be worth it. Plus you get to take something that is mostly unwearable, though horribly comfortable - the muumuu (I used to have a real thing for muumuus) - and turn it into a still-comfortable, much more wearable, adorable top! :) Click here for the tutorial.

Mommy Monday: Easy Burp Cloths

2009-03-02T08:00:00.002-07:00

Here's another fun and easy project for the beginning sewing enthusiast. Gerbera designs shows us how to fancy up some simple cloth diapers to turn them into some very charming burp cloths.

Click here for the tutorial.

Tutorial Tuesday: Sweatshirt to Flirty Skirt

2009-02-24T08:03:00.001-07:00

I think all of us have that sweatshirt - you know, the one you just love for whatever reason (maybe it's super soft or maybe it has sentimental value), but you just never wear it. It's a bit bulky or it's not flattering. Well, Do Stuff (leethal blog) has come to the rescue and created a tutorial for turning that lovable old sweatshirt into a cute new skirt that's totally you. Click here for the tutorial

Mommy Monday: New Take on the Baby Tee

2009-02-23T08:00:00.001-07:00

When I was in middle school it was all about the baby tee. What that meant was that basically we were all wearing tiny t-shirts that barely covered our stomachs, paired with flannel shirts and baggy pants. It was an interesting time. And a tough time for trying to be modest. Thankfully I made it through that period of my life and the flannel shirts and baby tees are behind me.

Or are they? This Mama Makes Stuff may actually have made me change my mind. Today's project is a different take on the phrase "baby tee" - this project has you turn your old t-shirts into adorable gowns for the newborn baby in your life.

Click here for the tutorial. Enjoy!

Tutorial Tuesday: Hat and Mittens from Old Sweater

2009-02-17T08:00:00.001-07:00

So, I've been scouting around on the internet and I've found some of the most delightful projects to share with you. Today's treat is a tutorial from One Pearl Button, showing us how to take an old sweater and turn it into the most adorable mittens and hat set. Winter is only here for a few more weeks and hopefully you won't need these long, but they could make these last few cold weeks a little more cheery. Click here for the tutorial.

Mommy Monday: Sweet Booties

2009-02-16T08:00:00.001-07:00

So, I guess I can make the announcement here as where as everywhere else: I'm pregnant! :) Litte Baby West is due in August, and I'd be lying if I said I didn't have babies - and baby projects - on the brain. So, I've decided to dedicate Mondays for the next couple of months to Mommy-related topics, mostly projects to make for the precious little packages. Now, those of you who do not currently have children or aren't expecting, don't feel left out. These projects are fun and mostly pretty easy and would make absolutely sweet gifts for the next baby shower you attend.

Today's featured project is making this adorable pair of baby booties:

The tutorial is here on the Craftzine.com blog. I think the booties themselves are super cute, with or without the LED lights. So, tech savvy or not, these are a fun project with great results.

Happy Valentine's Day: A Gift from Me to You

2009-02-13T10:58:00.002-07:00

I really like Valentine's Day. Everything is all pink and chocolatey and it's just three days before my birthday. It sort of makes me feel like all the happy pinkness is for me. And the best part is, since my birthday was always right around the corner, I couldn't care less if anyone gave me a valentine or roses or whatever, because there, sparkling in the future, was my birthday. Ah, February. How I love you.

But for those of you who aren't lucky enough to have a birthday just a few days after Valentine's (fewer babies are born in February than any other month, I hear, so there aren't that many of us), I understand the desire to celebrate the 14th. And so, my gift to you today is this collection of tutorials on how to make various types of flowers to celebrate the day. Make them pink. It's what it's all about.

First, Burdastyle created a lovely tutorial on how to make roses out of fabric. They'd make such a lovely centerpiece. Here's the tutorial.

Next, if you're more of the paper-folding type, you can learn to make these lovely origami cherry blossoms with this tutorial from The Flirty Guide's Everyday DIY Ideas.

And last, for something a little more cute, whimsical, and wearable, here's a tutorial from artsy-crafty babe on how to make these adorable button flowers.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Tutorial: Ten Minute Top

2009-02-12T10:28:00.003-07:00

Well, I've been trying to find us a good tutorial for a while, and today I think I hit the jackpot. Stitch Lounge created this adorable and easy top that just involves two squares of fabric and ten minutes of your time. I have some green-striped jersey I'm eager to try this with (I got it at Wal-Mart... three yards for 1.50. That was a good day.), so if it works I'll be posting pictures soon. Click here for the tutorial.

Heads Up: Free Shipping at Great Lengths

2009-02-06T15:56:00.002-07:00

Ok, so most of you already know that Great Lengths Shorts is not just about shorts. They're also about awesome, affordable modest clothing for all occasions, including those oh-so-important occasions that involve corsages, bow ties, and decorated school gyms. And they've got a great deal going right now. From now through Valentine's Day (actually the day after, the promotion officially ends February 15th) shipping on all formal gowns is free. So whether you're thinking ahead for prom, planning a wedding, or just wanting to wear a pretty shiny dress for no good reason, head on over to Great Lengths Shorts and check out their formal wear.

Simple Sewing Tips

2009-02-04T13:30:00.004-07:00

Not everyone wants to sew their own clothes, I understand that. But I think it's beneficial to know a little bit about basic sewing so that when your favorite, most beloved shirt gets ripped or the pull falls off your zipper of your best jacket, you don't have to host a viewing, perform an elaborate funeral ceremony, and bury it in a place of honor under the tree in the backyard. About.com has a whole section devoted to DIY fashion, (just discovered this, and you can bet I will be exploring it further) and they have a page dedicated to ten simple sewing skills it would be useful and handy to know. So go check it out, and increase your knowledge :)

Modest Fashions at Bellisima

2009-02-03T16:43:00.008-07:00

So, January was a dismal month for blogging, eh? January tends to be a pretty dismal month all around, what with the cold, the snow, the cold. Yeah, mostly the cold. But here we are in February, and suddenly everything seems better. We've turned the corner. Snow is melting (even though it will probably snow again), and we have the rosy pink glow of Valentine's Day to perk everything up. Oh yeah, and I was born in February, making it the best month of the year. Happiness.

So, February will be a month (hopefully) to renew both blogging and sewing efforts and hopefully get some fun things going around here.

For the first post of February, I just have to let everyone know about Bellisima! Modesty Boutique. Cute Faith clued me in to this site (thanks, Faith!) and wow, do they have some great stuff and great prices. Makes me anxious for the Husby's check to come in so I can spend it. Mwahahaha.

Anyway, here are a few of my favorites:

First up is this adorable bolero that could be used to modestify any formal without looking cheesy or bulky as sometimes, sadly, boleros do.

Next up, for those of us not attending a formal dance any time soon, but still wanting to get dressed up, this paisley skirt is just to die for (best part? it's on sale for 4.99):

This blouse totally gets me, as in - it knows where I'm coming from and it totally wants to hang out with me. I want to hang out with it too:

This entire outfit makes me giddy and totally brings that rosy pink glow of Valentine's Day into my heart:

So, go check out Bellisima. There is so much there - so cute and so affordable.

And keep checking back here at Modestify - there should be good things happening in February.

Mommy Monday - Hooter Hider

2009-01-19T10:00:00.000-07:00

This... sort of has to do with modesty. Well, I've decided it does-- and it's a very useful and easy project that also has an added bonus of being pretty fun. My friend Meredith came over today and made a nursing cover (hooter hider, though I think that might actually be a copyrighted name, in which case, I'm sorry) for her sister who is expecting. We had a blast and it was a super easy beginner's project. It was such a success I decided I had to share it.

We used this tutorial and it was very straight-forward and simple.

Here's the one Meredith made:

I don't know if you can see it, but it has the most adorable little owls on it. Click on the picture and get a closer look. The fabric was just too adorable.

Anyway, enjoy the tutorial! Oh, and happy Martin Luther King Jr. Day! :)

Sale at Sakura Rose

2009-01-16T12:05:00.008-07:00

Ok, so I need to check my comments more often... oh yeah, and post more often. New Year's resolution, maybe? Anyway, a few weeks back I got a comment from the owner of Sakura Rose Boutique (wow, flattered), informing me - and by extension all of you - of an awesome sale they are having over at Sakura Rose. I went over and checked out their stuff and man, they have some beautiful clothing for some extremely reasonable prices. I chose a few of my favorites to share with you all, but go! Check it out. You won't be sorry.

First, from the 9.99 Sale (9.99?!? You kidding me? I'm getting me some o' these)

They also have this one in plum, but I'm such a sucker for red. Oooh, red.

I'm also a sucker for tuxedo tops. Look how cute!

And this one looks both comfortable and classy. And hey, it's just a coincidence that all the ones I like are red.

There are more bargains on the site; like check out this gorgeous, sparkly dress. Anyone have a formal coming up?

And then there's this beauty. Sigh. So charming.

So, go check out Sakura Rose. Replete with awesomeness. And, it actually does get better - free shipping! (Seriously? Man, this makes my day)

Neat Shirt Tutorial

2008-12-15T11:01:00.003-07:00

If you're like me and you really hate the high-collar aspect of t-shirts, but love their comfort, I've found a great tutorial that teaches you how to combine the best elements of a button-down and a t-shirt.

Head over to Cut Out + Keep for an awesome tutorial on how to make this comfortable, classy shirt.

Sale on Formals at Great Lengths

2008-12-02T13:50:00.005-07:00

And, we're back. Sorry again for the extended hiatus, but I promise that December will be full of fun winter-appropriate tips and tricks. Today I would like to share with you the news that Great Lengths Shorts is having a sale on their formal dresses - 20% off of already modestly-priced dresses. For those of you planning on a winter formal, winter ball, or New Year's dance, you might want to take advantage of this awesome sale. Here are a few of my favorites. Click on each image for pricing and ordering information.

Taking November Off

2008-11-12T15:04:00.002-07:00

I think what it's come down to, folks, is that I cannot handle too many things at once. I've decided to participate in National Novel Writing Month this month, so I am trying to channel all of my creative forces toward that. That means I will not be posting on this site throughout the month of November. So, while there will be no Modestify posts, you are more than welcome to mosey over to nanowrimoexperiment.blogspot.com and see how things are going, maybe leave an encouraging comment or two. Thanks for putting up with me!

Last-Minute Ideas: Twilight Costumes

2008-10-28T13:56:00.003-06:00

So, sorry for the lack of postage lately. I have been busily working away at building our costumes for this Friday. It has not been easy, but I think we're going to pull through this with something decent. (I promise to post pictures.) Hopefully, none of you are such bad procrastinators as I am, and you've had your Halloween costumes since Nov. 1 of last year. But for those of you who are more like me, here are a few last-minute ideas for Halloween costumes:

The Twilight Theme

I debated for a while about this one, just because I am not the biggest fan of the novels. I don't hate them - I just don't love them. But I figure the Twilight series would make for a great Halloween theme (what with all the vampires and werewolves and all that), so I decided to just go ahead and shoot off some ideas:

Bella
Be Bella at the prom from Twilight by simply wearing your old prom or formal dress. Bring crutches. Carry a sign that says "I hate Forks" or "I wanna be a vampire when I grow up." Ok, the signs are silly, but the prom dress idea is a good one. I'm sure of it.
Be Bella from New Moon by wearing a motorcycle jacket.
Be Bella the bride from Breaking Dawn by wearing a wedding dress, or by going all vampy with white/pale makeup, glitter all over you, and dramatic eye makeup. You could probably wear anything dramatic.

Edward
Be Edward (or convince your best guy to be Edward) by wearing pale makeup, glitter, and very dark/dramatic/semi-preppy clothes.

Cullens
I am of the opinion that the best costume would be to go with a bunch of friends/family as the entire Cullen family. Basically, look hot. :P No, seriously, pale makeup, your best dark clothes. Pick your character and try to fit the description the best you can - Here's a movie pic for inspiration.

Jacob
My favorite character of them all. I really don't know how you could pull off Jacob, unless you really wanted to go the whole werewolf route. Or you know - look hot.

Well, those are my ideas. Anyone else have some brilliant suggestions? The best thing about the Twilight costumes is they can be pulled off with little to no monetary investment, and very little time. Just... you know, look hot.

Who Ya Gonna Call?

2008-10-20T10:19:00.003-06:00

Ghost busters!

I've always been very much intrigued by the idea of getting your family/friends together and all dressing up in some kind of team costume. When I was fourteen, I went as the Tin Man, one friend was Dorothy, another was the Scarecrow, and our other friend was a Cow. We also had a nerd in attendance. So, while I haven't always had much success with this idea (though, this year will be different!) that doesn't mean you can't!

Instructables member Honus has an awesome tutorial on how to make yourself and all your friends into an elite team of evil-fighting Ghost Busters!

Warning: This tutorial is not for the faint at heart!

Crown Tutorial

2008-10-16T12:39:00.002-06:00

Are you, like me, dying to just be something pretty for Halloween? Well, Bitter Betty Blogs offers us an easy solution for all those wishing to be princesses this Halloween - a tutorial for how to make a gilded crown out of lace:

Have fun!

Halloween Inspiration: Fairy Wings

2008-10-13T10:33:00.005-06:00

So, Halloween is coming up, and I am already getting super excited for my costume. The Husby and I are going to be Link and Zelda! Kind of like these guys (I only hope our costumes will be as awesome.):

What are you guys going to be? In case you are still looking for inspiration, I will be featuring Halloween costume ideas on the site for... well, until I get sick of it. :) Here's an awesome video from Threadbanger on how to make fairy wings (butterfly wings, ladybug wings, pegasus wings... really any wings you want) out of wire hangers, tights, and embellishments. You could really go any direction with this. In my family, we are going to use this tutorial so my awesome sister in law can be Navi, Link's little pet fairy. Tee hee.

Anyway, here's the tutorial: enjoy!

Modest Tip: "Unshrink" a Shirt

2008-10-10T08:00:00.002-06:00

Sometimes you have the cutest t-shirt, but it's just too small - it rides up, it constricts, and all in all it just ain't modest. Well, the Household Hacker has come up with a solution for us. Here's a tutorial on how to "unshrink" a shirt, using vinegar and heat.

Etsy Love: Modestmaven

2008-10-09T14:31:00.004-06:00

Ok, I was going to try to post a tutorial today, but then I was bumbling around on Etsy and I found something I absolutely had to share: Etsy seller Modestmaven. I saw her stuff, specifically this shirt and just fell in love:

She has several modest, creative, endearing shirts for sale and two beautiful modest dresses, including this one, which happens to be in my favorite color:

So, go check out modestmaven :)

Formals for Men: Bow Tie and Cummerbund Patterns

2008-10-08T08:00:00.002-06:00

So, my husband has been getting on my case about this blog being so female related. Well I can't help it, I'm a female. Well, today I found something to post for the guys, and hopefully that will keep the husby happy for a while.

On Burda they have two new patterns available, just in time for homecoming and formal seasons. One for a bowtie and one for a cummerbund (did you know that's how that word is spelled? I sure didn't.). So, hopefully this made it to you in time to get creative with your men's formal wear - if not, heck there's always next year.... and

Make Your Own Layering T-Shirt

2008-10-07T10:22:00.014-06:00

So, they're a big deal these days - shirts made specifically to go under other shirts/dresses/tank-tops/what have you. The problem for cheapskates like me is that, heck, they can get kind of pricey. All for a shirt you're only going to see the bottom of, or maybe the sleeves. So, what can a cheapskate do about it? Well, if that cheapskate has a sewing machine, that cheapskate can now take advantage of (dun dun duuuuuun)

The Great Layering T-Shirt Tutorial

Step One: Find yourself a big ole t-shirt that has your desired color, stretchiness, and softness. Maybe someone in your family can donate one to you, maybe a trip to your local Goodwill/DI/Savers will do the trick. I got mine at Savers. The t-shirt should be many sizes too big for you.

Step Two: Remove the sleeves. Cut them off, leaving about an inch beyond the seems.

Step Three: Turn the shirt inside-out. Find a shirt or tank top that fits you well and line it up with the t-shirt so that the collars are in pretty much the same place (I think the picture makes it easy to understand). Trace the sides and pin.

Step Four: Sew along the lines you drew, then trip the excess.

Step Five: Iron down the seams, so that they are open. Then, sew a top-stitch on either side of the seam. This gives it a nice detail and makes the shirt fit you more comfortably, with no bunchy seams.

Step Six: The sleeves. For this, just fold down the inch of sleeve material, then fold it under. Or you could fold it halfway, then fold it again. Just look at the pictures, hopefully it will make more sense. Then, sew down that hem.

If you want, you're done! You can also cut off the collar to make the neckline more to your liking (as I did) and you could also shorten the t-shirt if you feel it's too long. But there you have it - your very own layering t-shirt.

Getting Ready for Fall: Hoodie Tutorial

2008-10-03T15:33:00.003-06:00

So, I love Threadbanger. Love, love, love Threadbanger. And today's episode was no exception. They took us on a fun tour of the American Sewing Expo, then taught us how to make a hoodie out of an old flannel and an old t-shirt. I am thinking I'm going to have to raid Savers/D.I. and find an old BYU T-shirt and blue flannel and make mine soon! Fall is here, and I am anticipating the cold. Anyway, here's the video so you can get to creating yours:

I Heart Aprons

2008-09-30T13:43:00.003-06:00

I really do. They are so useful. I've always been (to my mother's great annoyance) one of those people who wipe their hands on their clothes constantly. Wearing an apron is the perfect way for me to avoid getting junk all over my jeans, and plus they're so adorable. I found an awesome tutorial through sewing republic that teaches you how to make an easy and adorable apron that you can wear around your kitchen or (as I do) in the sewing room. Enjoy!

Embellishing Cheap Gloves

2008-09-29T11:14:00.002-06:00

Here's a neat video I found on how to take a pair of inexpensive gloves and make them all fancy. I think this will be the last of my homecoming/formal related posts for a little while. I have some other things I want to work on - like maybe making a few of my own tutorials. Any requests? I always love a challenge.

And the winner is...

2008-09-26T13:58:00.011-06:00

So the drawing happened today! Thank you to everyone who entered - you truly made my week!

I don't have a printer, so I wrote all your names on little pieces of paper

Then, I put all your little names in a little hat (yeah, I went with the hat instead of the bag. I think it was a bold choice)

Then came the moment, but first we had to shake things up

And then we actually did the drawing (is this suspenseful to anyone besides me?)

And the winner is...

Yes, the picture is doctored - I admit, I added those dinosaurs. Congratulations to Bunny B - you won the dress! As for the rest of you, you know what? You warmed the cockles of my little heart, so I'm working on some consolation prizes for you. Especially you, Todd. My mom and all her friends are very sad you did not win. They were rooting for you. You will all get an email about it shortly.

Awesome Pattern Alert

2008-09-23T15:54:00.004-06:00

Hey check out this new pattern available for free on Burda.com. I think it's absolutely beautiful and the best thing about it is you can totally make it your own by choosing your own fabric, shortening, lengthening etc.

Check out this beautiful dress!

Homecoming Under $50 Etsy Style

2008-09-22T08:00:00.002-06:00

In case anyone missed it over the weekend, the dress is finished and the giveaway has begun. Don't forget to enter The Homecoming Dress Giveaway, ending Friday. :)

In the hunt for a modest homecoming/formal dress, there is one place that maybe many of you have not thought to look yet. Etsy. It's a website where sellers and buyers of handmade goods have an absolute heyday. You can find anything there - and it's all handmade. I found tons of great dresses there just searching for formal dresses. I only picked the ones that were both modest and under $50, and I found so many I just had to stop. Definitely go check it out if you are still looking for the perfect, unique dress.

My favorites:

This classy, vintage-style number is from etsy seller CassiesAttic for only $34.99

This one, from seller cutiepieboutique, is going for $42.00

But I love this one (going for $40) from the same seller even more. It's fun, it's flirty, it's way different, and let's face it, it's adorable.

This dress (for $45) is amazing, but you've got to see her other stuff. It's a little more expensive, but not nearly what it's worth. Seller LeTreMadine has beautiful renaissance, period, and even elven dresses. I'd say this one is so worth shelling out the extra bucks.

There's also this fun forties piece from the same seller, for only $35.00:

Those are only some of the gorgeous, handmade dresses out there available through Etsy. Definitely go check it out! You can also find gorgeous handmade jewelry to match your gorgeous handmade dress.

Homecoming Dress Giveaway: Starting Now

2008-09-19T10:45:00.009-06:00

So, I finally finished it! It took way longer than the week I had planned, but I'm actually very happy with the results. I put it on today and felt giddy. Tee hee. Happy day. So, without any further ado, here it is:

Front:

(ladybug not included)

And back:

Sorry the back picture is a little weird - I didn't have anyone here to help me fix the bow. But you can get the idea right?

My mom pointed out I need to mention the size. It fits me, so it's about a size 6 - 8. The dress and the lining are both made of stretchy material, so it could possibly work for a 10. The best thing is the cut of it is quite forgiving to us large-hipped types, but would also look good on the not-so-large-hipped types. :)

See the original dress and post here.

Ok, so here are the rules for the giveaway.

1. Anyone can enter.

2. You can enter more than once.

3. To enter, comment on this post, saying something along the lines of, "hey there I'm entering." I will print out all the comments, cut them each out individually (because I'm awesome like that) and then draw one out of a hat (or bag, still haven't decided that crucial point) and the one I draw out will be the lucky winner.

4. Please don't post anonymously, because then I won't know who the prize goes to.

5. After I choose the winner (randomly) I will post that person's name with a great congratulatory message. That person can then contact me privately and give me the information of where to send the dress.

6. You can enter the drawing from now until next Friday, when I will do the drawing. Good luck!

More Modest Homecoming Under $50: Vintage Style

2008-09-18T13:46:00.000-06:00

For the second installment of homecoming under $50, I thought I'd get a little creative with my searches and find some vintage dresses for you ladies. Here are a few I found on ebay:

I'm not sure how vintage this one really is, but it has a sort of throwback to that era style. I thought it was cute anyway, and its starting bid is 23.99

What I thought when I saw this one was "Holy awesomeness!!" Wow! It's got only 4 hours left for bidding and it's going for $30.00. I wish I had somewhere to wear it!

This one makes me think of some southern belle or something. It's here on ebay, with a starting bid of 19.99 and the bidding ends Saturday.

This pretty and simple ebay item can be found here. With three hours left on the auction, it's going for just 3.99.

This vintage number from the 70's can be found here on ebay for the "buy it now" price of 39.99.

This is not vintage or period, but I found it and thought someone might appreciate a $10 homecoming dress:

This little black dress from Target is a steal at 9.99. Dress it up with pretty jewelry, maybe a slip from vintage hem, fancy hair, and you've got yourself a cheap, modest homecoming outfit.

And one more non-vintagey one. I found this one for 46.50 in the sale section of Shabby Apple's site (such cute dresses) It's a little more casual, but it's so cute:

Modest Homecoming Under $50

2008-09-15T08:30:00.000-06:00

So, I'm still hiding from the dress, but not idly. I'm formulating ideas and things should be done soon. Meanwhile, since I noticed that many people are finding my site on a search for modest and cheap homecoming gowns, I decided to go on a little search of my own and see what I could round up for under 50 dollars. I know how incredibly frustrating it is to find a modest dress without spending a lot of money. So, I've done a little of the legwork for you and hopefully something will strike your fancy. The links will take you to the site where you can buy or bid on the dress.

The worst first:

If you're looking to really stand out at homecoming and have a little fun, you might try this eighties style dress on sale for 29.00 at cybernet plaza

Then there's this cute, sort of baby-dollish dress from PromGirl for 38.00.

Now for the ones I actually like:

This one comes from Discount Dressup, and I think it's quite cute, nice color and simple design, selling for 39.99

And if you want to go for the classic little black dress, this one from Chadwicks is on sale for 39.99. Pair it with a slip like this one from Vintage Hem and you could fancy it up a bit and make sure it's long enough.

Don't forget to try ebay for a unique dress and possibly really good deal. Here are some current auctions I found:

Someone still looking for a kimono-style dress? Well here's one going for a starting bid of 39.99 or you could skip the auction and buy it now for 49.99.

I also really love this classy formal that has a starting bid of 9.99 and two days left on the auction.

This one is probably my favorite of them all, but you're going to have to act quick. The bid closes in four hours. The going price is 39.99.

Well, hopefully these gave you some ideas of some dresses or some places to look. I wish you all success finding something that makes you feel beautiful on your special day.

Shh... I'm Hiding!

2008-09-10T19:45:00.002-06:00

Um... ok, I don't see it anywhere. I think I can talk safely about it now. What's it, you ask? That dress, that nightmare with such great potential dress! So I had hoped to finish the homecoming dress project in a week but, per usual, I have taken on something way beyond my skill level. My skill level is like a .37 out of 100, so it's not hard to do. But here I am with a beautifully dyed dress with a lining from h-e-double hockeysticks and tulle out my ears and NOTHING IS WORKING. But, I still have some emergency backup plans to try and maybe the dress will still come out looking halfway decent. Wish me luck. Maybe it will be done this weekend? That is, if I can get my courage up and stop hiding from it.

Mittens!

2008-09-08T16:26:00.007-06:00

Ok, maybe it's a little early to be getting all worked up over mittens, but I found these at the farmer's market on Saturday and they just totally won me over. A local lady makes them out of old wool sweaters and lines them with fleece from old jackets. Mine are lovely, all mismatchy and with the cutest buttons. Here, see for yourself:

I tried to get these pictures in a cute little collage or something, but I got impatient, so forgive the weird format. Anyway, if you live here in Provo, stop by the farmer's market on Saturdays and see if you can get yourself a pair.

Kimono-Style Hoodie Tutorial

2008-09-05T11:36:00.002-06:00

Hi everyone. So, what with having a few extra English lessons this week and a visit from my brother in law, I haven't had a chance to work on the dress at all since dyeing the fabric. So, hopefully I will be able to finish it this weekend and put it up for all of you to enter the drawing really soon. Sorry for the delay. (Mostly sorry because I am just as curious as the next person to see how this is going to work out.)

Meanwhile, I have found an awesome tutorial for you guys through Craftster.com. You can learn how to make this awesome hoodie:

Just follow this link to get the instructions and give it a go! I can't wait to try mine... as soon as this dress is finished.

In other news, I got a huge box full of clothes from a friend who is moving so I have my next dress project all lined up. Who here likes pink? Or should we dye it again...

Dress Update and Eliza Magazine

2008-09-02T11:34:00.002-06:00

So, things with the dress are going well. I went to Joann's on Saturday and bought fabric for the lining and the lengthening bits, ribbon, and dye. The colors I had planned did not exactly work out - I found a much more tempting fabric in a different color - shall I give it away or surprise you all once it's done?
Sunday I made the pattern for the lining, which was time-intensive but fun when it finally worked out. So far so good.
Monday I did the actual dyeing of the dress, and I am extremely pleased with the results. I've never dyed anything before (unless you count tie-dyed t-shirts), so I was more than a little worried, but the color came out exactly as I hoped it would.
So, now it's just making the lining and putting on the finishing touches.

Also, today, I wanted to tell you guys about Eliza magazine. I think I may have mentioned it before, but I don't think I gushed enough. This is a magazine that showcases fashion and other feminine interests (forgive me if that's a little stereotyping on my part) but with a distinct focus on modesty and high standards. The fact that they exist and are doing well makes me feel good about the world we live in. Read this to learn more about them. They have an awesome blog as well as quarterly issues.

Dress Inspiration

2008-09-01T14:22:00.000-06:00

I want to make a dress that looks like this but longer and with sleeves. Need ideas!

Homecoming Dresses: Sale at Great Lengths

2008-09-01T08:00:00.002-06:00

Well, since not everyone can win a dress (sad, but true), I wanted to highlight some other sources for homecoming attire. Happily, Great Lengths Shorts is having a sale on many of their beautiful, modest semi-formal and formal dresses.

My picks:

(Though I really hate those shoes. Really hate them.)

Modest Homecoming Dress Giveaway

2008-08-29T07:00:00.005-06:00

Note: If you don't want to read my random rambling, scroll down to the paragraph that begins "I have a brilliant idea."

Ok, so we're all depressed that school is starting again and summer is over (when I say we, read: I. I am depressed. I am pining away for scorching hot days and stifling nights. I know I am the only one who actually likes this. I am only partly deluding myself when I say we.), but there is a lot to look forward to (even for poor, little ol' depressed me).

First of all, football is back on. Maybe this is not good news for everyone, but for me it means a big fat bag of kettle corn, a feeling of camaraderie with the entire town of Provo and beyond, and up to four hours with my husband where he does not have his computer on his lap (he does not know this bugs me; mostly, I've accepted it as part of his identity, but it's still nice sometimes to get away from it). Ah, football.

But the point of this post is not football, it's what goes along with football: homecoming. Now, I did not know this, but homecoming is not technically about football - it's about welcoming back former residents and alumni; however, it's usually associated with a football game and of course, a dance. Now, that's what I've been getting at this whole time.

I have a brilliant idea. Yes, brilliant. Here's my idea: I am going to do a giveaway here on the blog (because I think it's so cool when other blogs do them, and I'm jealous of their coolness). Every week until homecoming I am going to go out and find a cheap(ish), probably used, probably d.i. dress and turn it into something amazing that would be appropriate to wear to a homecoming-type dance. I'll post pictures of the dress before; then, when it's ready (hopefully after a week), I'll post the picture of my beautiful creation. If you leave a comment on the blog requesting to be entered in the drawing, well, then you will be entered in the drawing and hopefully I will draw your name out. And you will have a cool dress made by me.

So, I went to d.i. today and got my first experiment. I am going to ask for some help on this one because, while I have some ideas of the direction I want it to go in, I'd like some suggestions on the particulars. Ok, so without further ado, here's the dress:

(Note: I put the little kitty in the corner mostly just because I could. Check out Picnik, it's way fun.)

Ok, so it has a little stain on the front that is hard to see, but I still want to do something about it. What I'm thinking (besides, of course, washing it) is that I want to dye it. Here is what I'm thinking: either black, dark chocolate brown, or possibly blue. What do you, as possible future owners of this dress, think? Please give me some ideas on this!

Also, please let others that you may know about this giveaway extravaganza. I really want this to be something useful to those out there who would like to wear a modest dress to homecoming (or any other dance, or date, or school, or out bowling, or you know, wherever you want to wear a moderately fancy dress). So please pass the word along.

Ok, this post is definitely long enough. Over and out!

Dreaming My Dreams

2008-08-28T13:01:00.005-06:00

So, it's been another terrible week for blogging. Not that anything has really kept me from blogging, besides the lack of material, that is. I have lots of ideas to try, but just haven't gotten around to actually trying them. I blame our newest purchase here at the West home - our projector. All evenings are now employed in the serious task of watching movies. This is important work that takes our time from other, less worthy, endeavors. Please read the sarcasm intended.

Anyway, today I clicked on my own ad (whoops, not supposed to do that, but in my defense they are actually interesting! I want to see these sites too! anyway...) I found this fun little clothing vendor called Martin + Osa, which provides all sorts of layering options for creating modest outfits and actually has an application that lets you mix and match outfits that you have layered and created.

Unfortunately, it's a bit pricey. If you have the money, though, mmm, there is some nice stuff. I absolutely fell in love with this pair of pants (on sale for 45$)--I mean I actually gasped out loud when I saw them. Ah, love.

Go check it out, it's at least fun to make your own layered outfits. And dream. Always fun to dream.

Make Your Own Backpack

2008-08-22T16:01:00.003-06:00

Shopping for a new backpack was always a bit of a struggle for me. I could never find anything that was both original AND cheap. Because I am cheap. Very cheap. If only Threadbanger had existed when I was in high school. This week, they posted an awesome video on how to make your own backpack out of an old men's jacket. This tutorial has so many amazing possibilities for originality, I would almost willingly go back to school just to carry my own home-made backpack. Almost.

Grr, for some reason I can't get the video to embed. I'm not so smart with the html, so I'm not sure what the problem is. So for now, just go here to watch the tutorial and get inspired.

If you make it, let me know! I would love to see the results.

Making Anything Out of Anything

2008-08-21T15:09:00.005-06:00

Obscure Homestar Runner reference aside (if you go watch it, wait a little while after the end of the toon, you'll see the funniest part), this week's focus will be on back to school fashions you can make yourself. More specifically, things you can make yourself out of things you already have. Amazing, eh? The reasons why are as follows: a) back to school shopping can be fun, but it can really drain your account. b) do you really want to show up to school the first day (whether that's high school, college, or dropping your kids off for their first day of kindergarten) wearing the same thing as nine other people? ugh, no thanks. and, c) what better way to ensure that your wardrobe is modest than to have made it yourself?

First up, a pretty awesome crafter on crafster.org posted a tutorial on how to make this awesome skirt out of a pillow case. I am absolutely in love with it, and really want to make one myself. I imagine you could make it out of any random textile you have lying around your house: an old sheet, a curtain perhaps?

Here's a link to the tutorial: pillowcase skirt

Little Break

2008-08-19T14:26:00.001-06:00

Hey everyone, thanks for continuing to check this blog. I am still working at it and will hopefully have some cool stuff for you guys soon. Today and tomorrow (and yes, yesterday too) I am celebrating my one-year anniversary of being married to the most amazing guy in the world, so I plan on being a little slackerish for the beginning of this week. But upon my return, there will be back-to-school ideas for all!

Window Shopping: Heavenly Couture

2008-08-14T14:37:00.011-06:00

So, today I was visiting clothing sites via StumbleUpon and found this really cute vendor that is having a sale! (Yay for sales this week!) The company is called Heavenly Couture, and I was very impressed to find that a large portion of their merchandise is modest. There are some lovely shirts and some adorable skirts that I would love to add to my wardrobe. And everything in their online store is $18.00 or less (except denim, too bad, but some denim items are also on sale).

Here are a few of my favorites:

And here are the absolute favorites:

Sale!

2008-08-13T14:47:00.002-06:00

Good news, Great Lengths Shorts is having a big sale at the moment. All their shorts are $6.99 or less from now until August 18th. They also have some great clearance items, some that are even under $5.00. They also have a pretty good shipping price, so if you buy a bunch it could end up being an incredible deal. Enjoy!

Skirt Tutorials

2008-08-11T16:31:00.002-06:00

So, the week of incredible lameness is officially over. The search for a new banner is not, but that's ok. I'm on it. Sort of.

Actually, what I'm really up to more than anything is watching the Olympics. It's been a few years (say, four? no actually eight) since I really have gotten to watch the summer Olympics, so it's fun to be excited about the events again. I'm certainly jazzed about the gymnastics, and diving and swimming became new favorites during the 2000 summer Olympics (thanks to Ian Thorpe. Ah the Thorpedo. It's good to be cheering for the US this year though, instead of falling for that quick Aussie.) And look how cute the Beijing Mascots are: Oh, yeah, I do have something modesty-related for you today. I have to admit, I still have not done much legwork, but it's the beginning of a new week: I gotta build up slowly to daily blogging. Anyway, for today's treat, I will point you to ThreadBanger for what they call their weekly diy roundup. This week, it focuses on several web tutorials for awesome skirts - all very modest and some pretty simple and fun to make. Enjoy!

The Week of Incredible Lameness

2008-08-07T17:02:00.004-06:00

So, this has been the week of incredible lameness as far as posting on modestify. I wanted to get a new banner for the site... you know, give it a unique, clean, crisp look, but then I just did nothing. Anybody want to make a banner for me? Well, if you do, just let me know.

I also intended to post some of the things I've been working on lately, but... I haven't. I'm going to blame this one on my husby because he's not here to defend himself. He's been working really hard on some computer science homework lately so he's also not here to take a picture of me showing off my new projects. But someday I'll show you those pictures you were on the edge of your seats waiting for.

The third and last reason I haven't posted on here is because I have been making these. They are really cute and fun to make. Maybe you could make some too! :)

Maybe the week of incredible lameness will be over tomorrow. Hopefully it will be. We'll make Friday great.

Two Ways to Sew Sleeves

2008-08-04T21:44:00.004-06:00

I think the photo takes the place of any snappy intro to today's post. It also makes up for the fact that it's 10pm. That guy is awesome.

So yes, today's post is about sleeves. I found a site today (whatthecraft.com) with two tutorials on how to attach sleeves to existing or homemade shirts: the easy way and the harder way. I hope that these will be useful to you in your modestifying endeavors.

Tomorrow: Some of my recent projects. I know you're all on the edges of your seats.

Button-Down Shirt Save

2008-08-01T11:40:00.005-06:00

Ok, this is less about modesty and more about avoiding embarrassing situations, but I think it comes in handy in both categories. I think button-down shirts are cute and often classy, but they have a sort of side effect that can cause awkward moments. What I'm talking about is the unintended peek at your bra they often give people because of the gaps between the buttons. Well, today I found this neat little product that you can use with any button-down shirt to eliminate this issue entirely. The No See 'Ems blouse front closures from Bug Catcherz. They also have handy adhesive strips for other slippery clothing issues. I used strips like these at my wedding and they really helped keep everything in place and made sure I was only showing what I wanted to show. Check it out, and have a good weekend. When we return on Monday, the blog may have a new look.

One More Reason to Love Japan

2008-07-31T10:42:00.007-06:00

Ah, Japan. Home of tempura, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Hello Kitty, and all thing cute. Now we have one more reason to love Japan: the haramaki. Apparently, as I discovered while randomly stumbling craft blogs, the haramaki is a new fashion trend over in Japan, and one I think we should import over here to the good ol' U. S. of A. and use for our own purposes. It's also been called a belly warmer or a tummy warmer, which is rather descriptive of what it is. Basically it's a tube of fabric or knitted material that wraps around your stomach, waist, and hips to provide a little extra warmth and coverage. This can be especially useful since sometimes the only pants you can buy are of the low-rise variety (a fashion pet-peeve of mine). Here are some pictures of some cute haramaki I found online:

As you can see, there's a lot of potential for spicing up an outfit, providing color, adding modesty, or just adding texture to whatever you're wearing! I gotta get me one of those. It's been a bit frustrating, because I can't seem to find anywhere to buy them on the internet, but I did find a tutorial for how to make one on Planet June (a fun, crafty blog to visit in your free time). Go here to access that.

Quick Fixes for Formal Dresses

2008-07-30T12:32:00.004-06:00

I found a neat little rundown of some things you can do to fix up a tube top, sleeveless, low cut, or backless dress over at modestprom.com in their section on modest makeovers. They even have downloadable, printable patterns that you can use to modestify your dress or top. I'm way psyched. Enjoy!

Memory Skirt

2008-07-29T13:06:00.007-06:00

Well, I am happy to say that I put another one of the tutorials I've posted on this blog to the test--and it turned out moderately successful. I used the men's shirt t0 skirt tutorial to make a skirt out of three shirts I wore on my mission. These shirts were very dear to me, but they had really seen better days. I wanted to hang on to them and had some sort of half-planned ambitions of making a quilt, but I don't think I have quite enough old mission clothes to pull off a real quilt. So this tutorial was a great solution for my what-to-do-with-these-shirts-I-don't-want-to-toss dilemma. So, here's the finished product:

The front:
The back:

My favorite detail, the lace:

Unfortunately, even with the lace it's still a bit too short--guess I have pretty short arms. As you can see in the following picture, I have to sag it way down to get it to the right length. I've got to figure something out, because I think it's really cute and I don't want to have to abandon it. Any ideas?

Easy Fix

2008-07-28T13:32:00.007-06:00

Ok, so I bought a really cute dress, um, last year, but haven't been able to wear it in a while as my husband pointed out that it is too short in the back and shows my garments. Whoops. So, taking some inspiration from vintage hem, I made my own lengthening underslip. Here's what I did.
First, I gathered my materials:
One, an old, knee-length slip I probably stole from my mom somewhere between 5 and 7 years ago. :) Love you Mom!
And two, about two yards of thick lace I bought for 67 cents a yard.

Next, I busted out the handy sewing machine and just sewed the lace to the slip, basically just using a straight stitch to tack the lace right onto the slip. And ta-da! Now I have a modestifying slip for whatever occasion :)

So now I'm happy cuz I get to wear my cute dress again, and maybe take a second look at some dresses that were not-quite-long enough. :)

Modestify in Action!

2008-07-26T00:28:00.007-06:00

Someone really did it - and did it well - she used one of the ideas on the site! My excitement is unparalleled. I hope she doesn't mind, but I'm going to share some of the pictures of the awesome skirt that my sister in law's sister (aka my brother's sister in law, aka my neighbor, aka a very nice person, aka a friend, aka she has an awesome garden, aka she's cool!) made using the men's shirt sleeve idea. Yay for her!

Any one else try anything lately? Or want to try something and don't know where to start? Leave a comment, email a picture, tap a message in morse code on my front door (and as soon as I learn morse code I'll get back to you), anything! :) Thanks for reading.

On the Red Carpet

2008-07-24T14:27:00.013-06:00

I love looking at red carpet pictures. Generally I try to avoid obsessing over celebrity lives (they're just people after all), but I'm still pretty interested in what they choose to wear for the very public events that require them to walk down the red carpet. So, I was very happy to find that among all the extremely revealing dresses celebs tend to wear to these events, there were some modest gems.

Featured Site: Beautifully Modest

2008-07-23T13:30:00.005-06:00

This is both a site (www.beautifullymodest.com) and a brick-and-mortar store (Allyse's Bridal) (which happily happens to be in my area) that really just puts a twinkle in my eye. I always loved their all-modest selection and their customer service, but now that I know a little more about their company and how they came about, I love them even more. Apparently their story started with a dad going prom dress shopping with his daughter and experiencing the frustration and disappointment of not being able to find a modest dress anywhere, even in Utah, the mecca of mormondom. You can read all about their story at Meridian Modesty. Their pictures are copyrighted, so I couldn't add them straight to the blog, but click on the links to see some of my favorite items from the store.

My wedding dress

Cute semi-formal

Gorgeous brown sheer

Simple day-dress

I'm in love with this one

What I would wear to prom if I could go back in time

DIY Skirt Idea

2008-07-21T15:47:00.003-06:00

Here's a fun and really simple idea for making a skirt out of some old men's button-downs. Looks like a great way to make something unique and modest to add to your wardrobe without much pain in your wallet. :) Enjoy.

Patterns! Continued

2008-07-17T08:10:00.001-06:00

So, continuing with the sewing theme this week has mysteriously taken on, I've decided to post some of my favorite patterns I've found on Burdastyle. The ones I've picked to someday make myself are all in the very easy to moderately easy category, so if I can do it you can do it! Just gotta get some ink for my printer... Anyway, here they are:

Patterns!

2008-07-16T08:00:00.003-06:00

With all the amazing sewing sites out there these days, all you really need to make your totally unique, personal, modest wardrobe are some sewing skills and a pattern. My favorite source of patterns is Burdastyle - it is "open source sewing" which means most of the patterns are available to download for free AND there are tons of people all working on the same or similar projects to help you out when you get stuck. Here is an awesome video in which my two favorite internet craft addictions - Threadbanger and Burdastyle - have teamed up to teach us all about patterns.

Sewing Tips: Hemming

2008-07-15T18:44:00.004-06:00

For the longest time when I was sewing things, I left the hems unfinished or tried to fudge my way through that part of the project. Well, to save you the sadness that comes from having a nearly perfect clothing item ruined by a botched made-up hem, I am posting this awesome video from Threadbanger that teaches you not one but two ways to hem. Good luck!

Ten O'Clock Monday Night...

2008-07-14T21:57:00.002-06:00

So. It's ten o'clock on Monday night and I still haven't posted. I know everyone is just distressed and distraught with grief at my lack of posty-ness. No? Well, just to assuage my own sense of guilt at not meeting a goal, I will post, even at this late hour. Just a short one to link you over to this interesting article giving some very good recommendations for how to sew and where to find modest clothing from a pattern. Hope you enjoy it.

Keep Cool Secret #4

2008-07-11T12:39:00.012-06:00

Ok, so it's not much of a secret, but another way to maintain modesty and keep cool in the summer is simply to find yourself a great pair of shorts. I love me a pair of cutoffs from an old, ratty-but-extremely-comfortable pair of jeans. There are also a few companies that sell adorable long shorts that will help you feel happy in the heat. Here are some of my favorites:

First off, from the Gap (these are a little more pricey, but they are very cute, especially the denim):

Next up, Great Lengths Shorts. Shorts are their specialty, so they have some great selections. I dearly love those plaid ones. (They also have a whole page of denims!):

Last, if you're feeling a little adventurous and would like to make a pair of shorts, this is a pattern listed on Burdastyle that I fell in love with the moment I saw. (By the way, you have to become a member to download the patterns, but it is free and so totally worth the trouble):

Keep Cool Secret #3

2008-07-10T08:00:00.000-06:00

Choose the right shirt. A great modestifying tip is to layer your shirts - if the shirt is too short, add a long tanktop underneath; wear a shade shirt underneath a cami; add a ModesTee to your slightly revealing attire. These are all great ideas - when it's not a hundred degrees out. Sometimes just the thought of all those layers is enough to make me sweat. So, one way to avoid that is to carefully choose a shirt that is both modest and cool, without having to add any extra insulation. My favorite shirt is a black tuxedo top style that I found at a used clothing store (Plato's Closet) - it's made with a thin fabric so it's deliciously breathable, it's modest, and it's cute. I love that thing. So, I went on a little search and found a few more modest, one-layer-covers-all, cute, breezy shirts for summer:

From Chadwick's:

From Delia's:

Hmmm, I think I have a thing for white. Most of these come in other colors as well, but I'm partial to white (which isn't so great when you somehow manage to spill all over yourself every time you turn around). I think it is key, though, to choose a light color and a light, breezy fabric. Stay cool!

Keep Cool Secret #2

2008-07-09T16:39:00.005-06:00

I think during the summer a lot of people underestimate the power of skirts. We think, it's so (so, so, so) hot outside, the only thing I can do is wear shorts - short, short shorts. That'll keep me cool. But the short shorts expose your skin to the sun and don't honor the beauty that is your body. Something I realized when I had to wear a skirt every day for a year and a half was that these things are AWESOME! They are like little, wearable air conditioners. As you wend your way through the world, they waft the air softly around your legs. And they are adorable and attractive. Here are a few of my favorites from Christa-Taylor:

Tips for Staying Cool

2008-07-08T17:31:00.002-06:00

Ok, it is hot. Really hot. Sweat running down the back of your legs when you step outside hot. Hot. And around this time of year, it can be frustrating finding ways to stay modest and stay cool. Well, I think this week I should have some good ideas for you. The first is this little article from Cotton Incorporated on which fabrics are the best for promoting happy breeziness in the heavy summer. Sticking to fabrics like these will help keep you from melting--without having to sacrifice your modesty. Yay, cotton!

Another Adorable Shrug

2008-07-07T08:14:00.008-06:00

Time for more shrugs - and more "I made this!" joy. Using a video tutorial from Threadbanger (below), I successfully made the adorable little shrug shown below. It worked perfectly. The sweater I used was a Christmas gift from a few years ago; I didn't want to get rid of it because it was cute and I am sentimental, but the darn thing squeezed my arms mercilessly and had some sort of vendetta against me that involved constantly showing off my stomach. And so, I revamped it and have been terribly pleased with the results.

Improvements: 1.) Now it's supposed to be short. 2.) Cutting the sleeves and doing a zigzag stitch really opened those sleeves up and now they don't make me feel like I'm about to bust out like the Hulk. 3.) The button. I heart buttons.

Make yours:

More Modest Swimsuits

2008-07-04T08:00:00.000-06:00

Once again, I did some Internet window shopping and found some adorable, modest swimsuits from Lime Ricki. They have so many options on their site - fun colors, great styles (even some actual one-piece swimsuits!), and more or less modest prices. Here are my favorites, but go check 'em out and find your fave.

P.S. Happy Independence Day!!

For Instant Modesty: Part II

2008-07-03T08:00:00.000-06:00

For instant modesty,

Add one of these:

To any of these:

Check out the ModesTee, wearable under any current fashion, here.

For Instant Modesty

2008-07-02T08:00:00.001-06:00

Add one of these:

To this:

Or add this:

To this:

Visit vintagehem.com to check out these awesome modestifiers, and make your own modest fashions!

What's Out There

2008-07-01T08:00:00.002-06:00

So, today I decided to just look on some of the more popular clothing manufacturers' sites to see what they have that is already modest. I basically took a virtual trip to the mall and went to the three stores I normally hit up, cuz they usually have good sales. I was quite happy to find several really great fashions. Here are some of my favorites:

From 5-7-9:

From AE:

And, my absolute favorites, from Old Navy:

Most of these are $10 or under with the sales Old Navy has going on now. Definitely go check it out! So cute and so modest and so affordable - can you beat that?

I Made This!

2008-06-30T08:00:00.001-06:00

A while back I posted a tutorial on how to modestify a shirt that is too short (here). Well, this weekend I decided to try my own medicine and see how it worked. I had a really cute/funny shirt (I bought it from a used clothing store a while back), but it turned out it was a bit too tiny - it always rode up and exposed my back, which I just didn't enjoy. So, I did my best to follow the tutorial, but I went a little crazy and added my own ideas to it. I think it turned out all right. Here's what I did:

1. The shirt was a little too tight, so I added panels to each side. I had to rip open the side seams then sew in a strip of black t-shirt fabric from a shirt my husband was willing to part with.

2. I then used the bottom of Husby's shirt to add about six inches to the bottom of my shirt. Unfortunately when I cut the fabric, I didn't take into account the extra room I would need for the panels I added and the hips I was born with. So, I was left with big empty spots on both sides.

3. I solved this issue by sewing three button holes on each side of my big empty spaces and using the bottom hem of the original shirt to lace through the holes. Ta da:

Feedback?

Modest Makeover: Adorable Skirt

2008-06-27T10:00:00.000-06:00

Here's a super cute tutorial from craftydaisies on how to take an old pair of jeans (or perhaps a pair of too-short shorts) and some fun fabric (maybe some old t-shirts or tank tops?) and turn it into a very awesome and very modest skirt. Enjoy!

Featured Site: Downeast Basics

2008-06-26T07:34:00.000-06:00

This awesome company caught my attention recently for selling adorable, modest clothes: Downeast Basics. I'm lucky enough to have a few of their retail locations in my town, but they also have a beautiful online collection. And the best part? They're having a sale! Here are my picks from the sale collection they have on their website:

Just for Fun

2008-06-24T10:29:00.000-06:00

Sorry I blew off Monday (for those of you who check back regularly, I am trying to post every weekday), but to make up for it I have this awesome video from Threadbanger on how to take a bunch of old T-shirts and make them into a sweet picnic blanket backpack. Summer is officially here and gloriously beautiful! Go out and enjoy it!

Fun With T-Shirts

2008-06-20T10:48:00.000-06:00

Here's a really cute video from Threadbanger on how to make a frumpy ol' ugly ol' t-shirt into a cute fitted one (with a boat neck, which is happy for me, since I hate t-shirt necklines, as previously mentioned.)

How-To Tuesdays: Darting T-shirts

Easy-Peasy Wrap

2008-06-19T10:28:00.001-06:00

Here's a fun tutorial on how to make this cute wrap from an old button-down shirt. I love wraps because they are a cute and easy way to add color and fun to an outfit. You can wear one over practically anything you want to modestify - sleeveless, tube top, whatever it may be, it becomes instantly modestified, and you become instantly adorable. Hope you enjoy this little tutorial.

Modesty Myths

2008-06-18T16:02:00.000-06:00

This is part of an interesting article about modesty I read here. It's a bit lengthy, but I found the author's take on things pretty interesting and insightful. Enjoy.

Four Myths Exposed

A First step toward reviving respect for modesty in our culture is to strike at the myths that undermine it. Let me touch on four of these.

The first myth is that modesty is Victorian. But what about the story of Rebecca and Isaac? When Rebecca sees Isaac and covers herself, it is not because she is trying to be Victorian. Her modesty was the key to what would bring them together and develop a profound intimacy. When we cover up what is external or superficial — what we all share in common — we send a message that what is most important are our singular hearts and minds. This separates us from the animals, and always did, long before the Victorian era.

The second myth about modesty is that it's synonymous with prudery. This was the point of the dreadful movie Pleasantville, the premise of which was that nobody in the 1950s had fun or experienced love. It begins in black and white and turns to color only when the kids enlighten their parents about sex. This of course makes no sense on its face: If the parents didn't know how to do it, then how did all these kids get there in the first place? But it reflects a common conceit of baby boomers that passion, love and happiness were non-existent until modesty was overcome in the 1960s. In truth, modesty is nearly the opposite of prudery. Paradoxically, prudish people have more in common with the promiscuous. The prudish and the promiscuous share a disposition against allowing themselves to be moved by others, or to fall in love. Modesty, on the other hand, invites and protects the evocation of real love. It is erotic, not neurotic.

To illustrate this point, I like to compare photographs taken at Coney Island almost a century ago with photographs from nude beaches in the 1970s. At Coney Island, the beach-goers are completely covered up, but the men and women are stealing glances at one another and seem to be having a great time. On the nude beaches, in contrast, men and women hardly look at each other — rather, they look at the sky. They appear completely bored. That's what those who came after the '60s discovered about this string of dreary hookups: Without anything left to the imagination, sex becomes boring.

The third myth is that modesty isn't natural. This myth has a long intellectual history, going back at least to David Hume, who argued that society invented modesty so that men could be sure that children were their own. As Rousseau pointed out, this argument that modesty is a social construct suggests that it is possible to get rid of modesty altogether. Today we try to do just that, and it is widely assumed that we are succeeding. But are we?

In arguing that Hume was wrong and that modesty is rooted in nature, a recently discovered hormone called oxytocin comes to mind. This hormone creates a bonding response when a mother is nursing her child, but is also released during intimacy. Here is physical evidence that women become emotionally bonded to their sexual partners even if they only intend a more casual encounter. Modesty protected this natural emotional vulnerability; it made women strong. But we don't really need to resort to physiology to see the naturalness of modesty. We can observe it on any windy day when women wearing slit skirts hobble about comically to avoid showing their legs — the very legs those fashionable skirts are designed to reveal. Despite trying to keep up with the fashions, these women have a natural instinct for modesty.

The fourth and final myth I want to touch on is that modesty is solely a concern for women. We are where we are today only in part because the feminine ideal has changed. The masculine ideal has followed suit. It was once looked on as manly to be faithful to one woman for life, and to be protective toward all women. Sadly, this is no longer the case, even among many men to whom modest women might otherwise look as kindred spirits.

No-Sew Fitted Tee

2008-06-17T09:44:00.000-06:00

I've been posting a lot of tutorials and projects lately that all involve sewing. I realized today that this could be rather frustrating for those who don't know how to sew, who don't have a sewing machine, or who (like me) have a broken one. So, I found this neat little tutorial on how to make a cute fitted t-shirt out of a big ol' baggy one without one single stitch.
I'm coming in to a giant bag of t-shirts today (love freecylce) so I plan on trying this project soon. Hopefully I'll be able to expand on this and do something with the typical t-shirt neckline - which, as previously discussed, I can't stand. Anyway, enough about my t-shirt issues. Here's the tutorial from instructables.com. Enjoy, and please let me know if you try it!

P.S. Don't you love that she's wearing a Napolean Dynamite shirt? I surely do.

Cutesie Flowers

2008-06-16T11:19:00.001-06:00

One of the fundamental premises of this blog is that being modest is not the same as being frumpy. Choosing modest clothing does not mean rejecting style, beauty, or originality. And so, in that vein, I've chosen this tutorial from Bitter Betty Blogs for today's Make Your Own feature. If you try it, send me an email or write a comment and we'll post your creations right here on the blog. Enjoy!

T-Shirt Jumper

2008-06-13T09:02:00.000-06:00

Oh the DIY joy! I found this awesome tutorial on how to make a t-shirt into an adorable jumper skirt at threadbanger.com, which is rapidly becoming my top favorite site. I personally hate wearing t-shirts - something about the way the neckline is so tight or maybe it's the loose-fitting sleeves - I'm not really sure. But I do think some t-shirts are adorable and/or fun and wish I only had the disposition to wear them. Now that I've found a way to wear my t-shirts and like them too, this is a project I'm definitely looking forward to trying out for myself.

Scrap Skirt

2008-06-12T08:29:00.000-06:00

I'm dying to make one of these!

What I'd really love to do is mix up the colors and the fabrics to be a little more similar to this one I saw on Pretty/Modest. And that's what's so great about DIY - I can make it look however I want! (In theory.) And so can you :) Here's the tutorial: (You're going to want to click on the pictures to enlarge them and actually read the instructions.)

This tutorial is courtesy of craftleftovers.com. Definitely go check it out - lots of fun, adorable crafts to engage in. :)

Also, please note there is a poll now to the right of the screen. Cast your vote, express your opinion - let me know you're reading! :)

Featured Site: Pretty/Modest

2008-06-11T07:39:00.000-06:00

Is this not the cutest shirt you have ever seen? I love the whole ensemble - the sweet white shirt, the adorable belt, the classy jeans. I'm in love. And guess where I found it? At a lovely little blog also dedicated to modesty called Pretty/Modest.

I had a lot of fun this morning exploring all the pretty things and modest things this blogger has found from across the Net, so I hope you will also enjoy today's featured site.

Be Original

2008-06-10T07:00:00.000-06:00

I don't know about you, but I've never thought it was much fun to look like everyone else. That's why I think DIY clothing is so much fun. Find a cute fabric, some fun trim, and make yourself a skirt that no one else will ever have. And, as a bonus, you can make it exactly as long or short as you're comfortable with. I'm not much good at sewing, but I can have fun with simple patterns and projects, such as one I found on crafster.org. You have to start by making this circle skirt:

Then follow these instructions*:

a) make a simple circle skirt (there's a great tutorial for that here on craftster!) but INSTEAD of cutting an arc to get rid of the squared-off fabric, leave it. It'll give you the aysmmetrical hem.
b) hem the bottom so that your hem line is about a centimeter above the bottom edge of the fabric
c) pin lace ON TOP of the fabric (right-side up!) so that the extra centimeter overlaps- or, rather, bottomlaps, I guess
d) sew on lace, using same coloured thread as the lace colour
e) bunch up the top a bit at random places. this will allow the skirt to fit you better, and looks prettier
f) hem the waist-edge of the skirt
g) make an elastic band for the top. I just cut up an old blood donor shirt, but anything with some give to it with colours that match should work!
h) attach elastic ON TOP of waist hem so that there's a bottomlap, like on the bottom with the lace
i) BY HAND, sew on pearl strands that are of varying lengths. If you do this by machine, you might accidentally kill yourself. I know I did.

*Originally posted here by Crafster member odile.

Summer Fun Board Shorts

2008-06-09T09:00:00.000-06:00

For today's Make Your Own feature, I found a really fun tutorial on how to make board shorts out of a pair of old pants, a Hawaiian shirt, and a tie. This is such a simple fix up, I bet you could even do it without a sewing machine if you were feeling patient. I love this, because it is a cheap project and you can make it all your own. In the tutorial, they use old business pants, but you could use practically any type of pants and have your very own, cute, modest shorts.