How to Bring Old Clothes Up To Date

Save Money with Simple Alterations to Make Clothing Fashionable.

Oct 9, 2008 Helen Krasner

For those who don't have the money for new clothes during the current economic climate, here are some easy ways to adapt last year's and older garments.

Many people are finding that the "credit crunch" is affecting their lifestyle to the point where it is difficult to afford fashionable new clothes. But with a little knowledge of sewing and a few simple tricks it is possible to make old garments look bang up to date. Here are some suggestions.

Shortening Coat Sleeves

Many up-to-the-minute coats have three-quarter length sleeves, or even shorter. While it may not be the most practical fashion for a cold winter, they do look good. It is easy to copy; all one has to do is take an old coat, and cut off the sleeves at the elbow or even higher. This works best with wider sleeves, and it is best to pin them first to make sure it will work. The "new" coat worn over a thick sweater will look completely up to date.

Adding a Belt

The simplest way to update almost any outfit this year is to add a belt. Coats, jackets, dresses, cardigans – all are being worn belted. Cheap belts are available in any high street store, for those who don’t own one, and they are tending to be worn cinched in at the waist, rather than loosely over the hips.

Ankle-Length Trousers

The newest trousers reach to the ankle, or for those with long legs and well-turned ankles, and inch or two above. So shortening one’s trousers will give one an instantly fashionable outfit. This also works well for trousers which have shrunk in the wash and become too short; this year they can be worn again.

Lots of Layers

Layering has been fashionable for a year or two and it still is. One can wear different layers of vests, teeshirts, and cardigans for an up to the minute look and it also helps everyone keep warm in winter. Another new look is a summer dress over a jumper with either leggings or jeans.

Add Military Buttons

The military look is definitely in. Buttons can be added to jackets, trousers, cardigans and skirts for an instant update. The buttons can be found cheaply in markets and chain stores.

Fake it – Do Something New

Doing something drastically different can give one’s friends the illusion of following fashion. Skirts come in all lengths at present, but shortening on, lengthening it, or adding something to it gives the impression of being up to date. It’s the same with hair styles; a drastic change of colour or style can make one look fashionable.

Those who do all or some of the above will find that they have effectively given themselves a whole new wardrobe and a completely new look. It does not take long, it’ll give one a lift, and it will save a huge amount of money.

Source

  • The Times, 8th October 2008

Related Articles

The copyright of the article How to Bring Old Clothes Up To Date in Women’s Fashion is owned by Helen Krasner. Permission to republish How to Bring Old Clothes Up To Date in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
A new hairstyle always looks up to date, Helen Krasner A new hairstyle always looks up to date