BEFORE:
So this was essentially a genuine polyester robe/dressing gown from J.C. Penny's (circa 1970 it appears from the tag). I loved the black piping along the edges. Other than that, it didn't have a lot going for it.
1) My first step was to simply cut off the
sleeves and the strings that tied the robe closed.
2) After that, I took a couple inches off the bottom and hemmed it, and also took in the sides to tighten it up a little bit.
3) After that, I added a hook an eye to keep the dress closed. (In lieu of the strings) I ended up sewing on two because I found that the extra flap of material crossed over underneath was bubbling in an undesirable way.
I also added a cool button to the outside.
4) My last step was to cinch the shoulders of the dress. It created the loveliest neckline.
And...VOILA! A nice retro looking dress.
AFTER: