Case in point, this cute top I bought for $1.50. I've been into neckties lately. They are soooo WWEPW. Something along the lines of this, this, and this, paired with a cardigan or sweater. 
It just so happens that thrift stores have a TON of these in extra large sizes formally worn by little old ladies. I found this one in a very adorable print with super cute cuffs and buttons on the sleeves as well as detailed smocking along the neckline.
I took it home and took it in on the sides and arms. Then, I cut off the arms, resized them and sewed them back on as short sleeves. When altering thrift store finds I recommend picking something that doesn't need a lot of work. Perhaps one or two but no more than three elements that need to be changed. Anything more and it can become more work than making something from scratch.
I paired it with this teal cardigan (also a thrift store find I bought for $3). I cut down the sleeves on that as well. There are just the right elements of tiny teal in the blouse so it looks poifect together.
I've never gotten a tattoo but if I did it would look something like this.
I wish the photography fairy would leave this on my door.
Do you have tsunami dreams like me?
Like not spending money? 
18 {comments}:
I love how you have transformed that top. It looks totally awesome. Very feminine and stylish.
Great tips!
~Debra xxx
Capers of the vintage vixens
Oh, so cute! I love the whole outfit. :)
Love the smocking!
I love the buttons and the tie! And the teal. Who am I kidding--it looks amazing!
This is darling! And I'm giggling wondering what the check out employee must have been thinking when they were ringing you up seeing this before top! UGH! But wow, what you did with it is amazing!
It's gorgeous! And love the cardi combination. I thought of refashioning many times but havent yet tried anything. I think I'm a bit scared, lol! I like your planning approach so will probably set myself the challenge of a 1st refashion.
I agree with Suzy. Your refashions are stunning, but I'm a little chicken to try one myself...although I've been daydreaming the last couple times I hit the thrift store.
Thanks for the inspiration!
You did such a great job with this one!! I find a lot of tops like that I usually try to drastically belt, or layer something on top of, but to alter it so well...gee, now I'm going to have to give it a shot. Love the elbow length frill. Gorgeous!
In LOVE with the sleeves! WOw you're absolutely amazing!
-Nicole
www.craftmysoul.blogspot.com
Great modifications. I love the sleeve length, and the print is perfect.
Truly amazing- I wouldn't have looked twice at the original top, but your re-fashioned version is so cute!
I haven't done anything so drastic before, but for $1.50 what's to lose?
Excellent :-)
super cute!
Wow, the details are beautiful.
This is gorgeous! Love the smocking details, the fabric, the color and style!
Hi Grosgrain,
I'm an avid follower of your blog and was wondering what kind of sewing machine you use for these fabulous projects?
Shannon
girl, go on with your bad self.
this is amazing!
Those sleeves...gasp!
This is fantastic - I will be looking at blouses much differently in the future when I visit the thrift store!
love it! i have a similar top sketched out for a future date with my sewing machine. i'm just looking for the perfect fabric. my next trip to the thirft store I'm going to see if I can find something there. thanks for the idea!
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