reconstruction destruction

DIY denim vest, F21 lace dress, bow, tights, vintage booties, Mulberry for Target bag

I had to reconstruct a denim jacket for one of my apparel classes and was very hesitant at the beginning, I wanted to opt out to do a trend board but decided to take on the challenge. Who doesn't love challenges?

I thrifted the jacket for only $4.50! I drew out a spine and ribcage on stencil paper, and after using my X-ACTO knife to cut it out I used fabric spray paint to fill in the stencil. (Be careful with these things, they're so much fun. I got carried away and started "x-acto knifing" EVERYTHING haha)

I then added exposed zippers throughout the jacket, as front pockets and on the collar. I used bias tape around the arm holes because I forgot to put on my glasses and just started cutting off the sleeves and well, I got a little scissor happy!  I then added the chain to the jacket, which can be used in different ways-- as a belt, attached to the zippers, or it can come off completely.

Since I have very basic sewing skills and am not very good at following rules, I just let my fear of the sewing machine go and was actually pleased with how my jacket turned out. I was so worried about how straight my stitching was but when it came down to it, I actually like the raw and rough look that it made. 

This has encouraged me to sew by my own rules. Its helped me embrace my beginner's mistakes and just play off of the mishaps by transforming them into my own beautiful imperfections. 

So I encourage you to start making your own things or adding your own additions to garments--make them unique and your very own. Don't worry about following the conventional rules, just have fun with it!

If anyone is wondering, I received a perfect 100/100 for this...yay :)

♥