One of the concepts of bohemian dress, that I like, is layering.
I wanted to make a tank top with ruffles so I could add that feminine touch to any skirt outfit, so I took a thrift knit, cut it down, and added lace from the sheer layer of another top and a lace curtain panel. 🙂
This is a simple idea, but one I wanted to do for myself, and maybe you would like to do this, too.
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First, I checked out one of my fave thrifts and went to their back room for 50-cent items. I got a white cotton knit that was too large for me, but that I could cut down. You may have a tank that’s already your size, which would make this project a lot easier and faster to do.
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I used another piece of clothing for a pattern for the neckline and sleeveless arm holes, then cut it down a little more ‘cuz I wanted a fairly low neckline, front and back—and narrow straps, so I could use it under other tops and have the ruffled bottom enhance the outer top. Of course, it can also be used as a regular outer top.
As always, I allowed 1/2 an inch for the hems: I turned it under a 1/4 inch, then again, so the raw edge would be inside the second fold, and sewed.
Carefully cut the sheer top straight across from just under the arm holes and line it up under the newly-made tank top, so the sheer top is under the bottom edge of the tank. Or, you can use wide lace.
(The reason I like to use parts of clothing is because it’s cheaper than buying expensive trims from a fabric store! I got the two-layered top for 50-cents, and the lace curtain for $1.19/ lb, which, since it is so lightweight, was hardly anything.)
Put a notebook, or something, between the front and back layers as you work so you won’t pin the front and back together. After you pin the sheer fabric to the bottom of the tank, sew it all around.
Cut strips of lace curtain (irregularly, to give it more character), pin it in place, gathered, to the bottom of the tank just above the other lace, and sew, so it makes a ruffle.
Enjoy putting it in outfits!
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I’d love to hear your comments!!! Lemme know whatcha think!
This looks easy enough so that I even I could attempt it ~ and it looks so lovely! I will give it a try, thank you for the endless inspiration ♥
Hey Francesca. You’re one of my best cheerleaders—and I thank you with open arms! Consider yourself hugged. 🙂 I love the “endless inspiration” comment. This is the main reason I’m doing this blog, is to inspire women to “scratch their creative itch!” Lol.
Too many people are walking around in dull, boring clothes! Our dress is one way we can bring a little joy into our lives!! And, I must say, I credit God for any creativity I have—it’s the way He made me, and I’m so grateful that it comes out in a way to bring smiles to others.
O—and be sure to tell me/ send pix WHEN you make it!! Don’t put it off!! DO IT!!
Blessings, dear girl!!
Cindy
This looks so beautiful and lovely lace creates a signature bohemian vibe! Thanks for sharing this tutorial with us!
Thank you Ana!! What I love about this is, I can wear it under a shorter top and it extends the top (to be a tunic appearance), and also gives it the Laganlook! <3 I appreciate your comment!
Love this!! I never would have thought to use a curtain!! I have been volunteering at my local Council On Agings thrift shop for 6 or 7 yrs now, once a week, and we ALWAYS have lace curtains!! From big, lace ruffly ones, to lace valences, to regular lace panels, and I never thought to use it to add to clothes!!! We sell them dirt cheap, too, lol, and volunteers get 1/2 off on the day they work and you know whose leaving armed with curtains next week, right??!! Lol! Thanks for this…. Completely unexpected, lol, as I found you thru a paint brush upcycle pic on Pinterest! The Edgar Allen Paintbrush idea… Which is fabulous… Led me to browsing, and following, your blog. Super psyched to see the rest!
Hey missKitty1222. THANK YOU for your comment!! I’m so glad one of my pins led you to me! Welcome to the family. 😀 Yes, I always try to figure out how to use things not intended for what I use them for, in other words—repurpose. It makes it so much fun and you end up with something totally unique. That’s why I encourage women to use their imaginations! Bohemian = unconventional!
OX
Blessings,
Cindy, creator of DIY Bohemian
P.S. Share my site with everybody you know!! Thnx. 🙂