Restyling clothes in 3D
In line with my efforts to innovate with minimum investment and resources, I came up with this 3D blouse makeover that appears to be the logical development of the idea I’ve shown in Custom drapery top makeover. As counter intuitive as it might seem, I first thought of this original 3D restyling and then did the drapery as a “negative”. If you’ve had a chance to look through the examples I shared in the drapery post, you might have noticed the analogy and how I was inspired by those interesting accessories that I linked here.
The concept is the same: an easy way to give any top a new shape or a new look. This is an idea that looks great both on a casual T-shirt and on a more elegant item. Try adding a few more elements, depending on the desired effect. Just like with my drapery nods, it takes only a few simple 3D elements to create an interesting, decorative effect. Alternatively, you can modify the whole “cut” of the item. I tried this on sleeves and it looked amazing. I will share more examples on social media, and I hope to see yours as well.
I used small wooden elements that I’d found in a craft supply store (I guess you could use buttons instead) and small rubber bands. Once the relief is in place, it’s almost impossible to see the rubber bands. However, I’d still suggest you choose bands of the same or a similar color as the fabric of the item in order to get the seamless result. Just place the element underneath the fabric and fasten it with the rubber band on the outer side. Depending on the size of the element, you will fold the band once or several times to keep the element properly in place. In the end, the cloth item becomes fitted yet comfortable since the rubber bands allow for some stretching as you move.
The process implies a bit of playing with the space and number of elements, their location and proximity to one another. As I have previously mentioned, trial and error is the best way to achieve that great effect which will work for you and for the occasion.
All photos by Carlos Kesgo