Do you have an old men’s shirt? Turn it into a light summer dress in just a couple of hours! No complicated patterns, expensive fabrics, or designer skills required — just simple, stylish, and sustainable.
Why you should try it:
- It’s free or almost free to make.
- It’s suitable even for beginners — minimal sewing required.
- Oversized and boho chic styles are currently in fashion.
- It’s a sustainable approach: upcycling + individuality.
What you’ll need:
- Men’s shirt (the bigger, the better);
- Scissors;
- Pins;
- Needle and thread or sewing machine;
- Elastic (for the bodice or waist);
- Chalk or fabric marker;
- Iron.
Step-by-step instructions:
- Choose a shirt
Preferably one made of thick cotton fabric without a bold print. A size L–XL will give you more freedom for alterations. You can take one from your dad’s, husband’s, or brother’s wardrobe, or find one at a thrift store.
- Decide on the style
Choose one of the simple options:
- Bandeau dress: open shoulders, elasticated top;
- Strappy dress: cut out the armholes and sew on ties;
- Shirt dress: minimal changes, add a belt or elastic.
- Cut off the excess
- Cut off the collar (if not needed);
- Mark the desired length and cut off the bottom (leave a 1.5 cm allowance for the hem);
- If you plan to have open shoulders, cut off the top part and make a drawstring.
- Sew the drawstring casing for the elastic band
- Fold the top edge inward by 2 cm;
- Sew, leaving an opening;
- Insert the elastic band of the desired length (across the chest or waist);
- Sew up the opening.
- Finishing the armholes and hem
- Fold and stitch the edges — or finish them by hand;
- You can add straps from fabric scraps or satin ribbon;
- Fold and stitch the bottom of the dress.
Decoration ideas:
- Add lace, buttons, a brooch, or embroidery;
- Use contrasting elastic or bright braid;
- Create asymmetry — leave the bottom longer at the back.