Jane Turner asked: During a credit crunch, you’re more likely to think twice about splurging on the latest designer outfits. More and more people seem to be following the advice of making use of what they already have.
During the Second World War, the government issued a pamphlet entitled ‘Make Do and Mend’. The guide gave tips on how to save food and mend clothes on the cheap. Whilst we’re currently not living amidst a war, the same advice can be applied to our current state of recession, as a call for a return to post-war thriftiness may be just what we need.
You may own an old A-Line skirt, which you could unpick and use as a template. You could pin it to some taped together newspaper and make a reusable pattern, or pin it straight to the fabric you’re going to use to make a new skirt and cut around it.
Consulting an image consultant will help you ascertain what style of skirt suits your shape. For instance, if you’re what’s classified as a ‘lean column’ an A-Line skirt will look great on you. If you’re a ‘neat hourglass’ opting for a straight lined skirt may be the better option. Finding out what your best fabrics and patterns are for you to wear, plus what you should avoid, can only be invaluable advice.
Visiting your local charity shop can be a good place to find interesting fabric. Even old-fashioned headscarves, old linen tablecloths, duvet covers and vintage curtains can be made into dresses, skirts or bags. Have a look out for buttons too, as you could replace existing buttons on your garments with some interesting ones found in charity shops. Adding military buttons can update an outfit instantly.
Visit a haberdashery department, local market or a Hobby craft shop and look for ribbons, lace, sequins, feathers, which you could add to a plain coloured jumper.
Salvage an old summer dress by teaming it with a polo-neck sweater and thick tights.
Look out for tartan belts or bags, as this key trend can update your look for this season. Perhaps you have an old kilt hanging about that you could turn into a tote bag.
Fix as many of your damaged clothes as you can. Sew on missing buttons, turn up hems. Adjust lengths of sleeves, skirts, trousers or dresses – and if you can’t sew, consider enrolling on a sewing course at your local college, or look out for ‘how to sew’ books at charity shops.
So, enjoy what you’ve got, keep it at its peak, and get more creative. You never know, you may emerge from the Big Squeeze as a more stylish, fashionable individual!
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