how to make a sundress

Hannah's NDAD Creation

We're having some springtime temperatures here in Los Angeles - I was in Malibu yesterday celebrating a friend's birthday wearing flip flops and a dress!  I know there's still a Polar Vortex going on in other parts of the world, so to help channel some warm temperatures, this piece from Hannah in the Phillippines is getting some love.  It's exactly what I want to wear next time I'm in the sun!

I got the dress for free from the school where I work. (PS, I'm from the Philippines! Hi everyone!!!). They gave each of us a bag with several pieces of clothes inside.  My students chose the dress for me because they know that I love dresses and think it will look great on me.

New Dress A Day - Vintage Dress - DIY - floral pattern

When I tried it on, I didn't like the fit especially in the shoulders, the thick neckline, the shirred part in the middle of the dress, and the length. I loved the pattern of the fabric though, so I held onto it and decided to recreate it.

How will Hannah tweak this piece?

 

I finally got the courage to makeover this piece!  I cut off the sleeves, folded the neckline to make it thinner, and then removed the shirred piece in the center.  I then attached the bottom part of the dress to the bodice. The length was already perfect so I didn't have to do anything else to it.  I added my fave belt at the waist to complete the look and tadah! 

New Dress A Day - Vintage Dress - DIY - floral pattern

I have a new dress. It's a perfect dress for the warm climate here in the Philippines. :)

New Dress A Day - Vintage Dress - DIY - floral pattern

I love how your dress turned out, Hannah!  It's making me want to head to the beach.  I love how you tweaked something that didn't quite work into something that fits like a charm.  Your students chose well!  PS -  I love the sandals that you're wearing in the last picture!