Dressing Room -- Taking Things Off

The only thing I’ve done more to tops and dresses than turning them around to make them right – is taking things off.

I don't own a sewing machine or know how to sew in any real way (I'm a crocheter), but I'm constantly re-imagining and hacking at my clothes nevertheless. I take off trimming. I take off embellishments. And more than anything -- I take off sleeves.

My hands-down favorite style of top is sleeveless so if I find a piece that’s got everything else going for it and that one area is missing the mark, I’ll take it home and carefully (if it’s right on the seam) cut the sleeves off myself, not minding a slightly ragged look... or else zip it over to a seamstress and let her handle it. Either way, I've once again made a clothing item that wasn't quite right -- exactly the way I want it.

I adore vintage, white, lacy tops more than just about any clothing item I can think of (besides old Levi's, and especially with old Levi's). Most of the vintage white tops I've picked up over the years have come from a longtime favorite vintage store, Polkadots and Moonbeams, on West Third Street in LA. They have two stores now – vintage and new -- but I’m faithful to the original with the time-traveled, one-of-a-kind goodies. 

This top had poofy, awkward hitting short sleeves on it when I spotted it on a hanger there. But the base of it was just what I was in the mood for. I brought this one to a seamstress and it was remedied in no time.  

Like most of my staples, I’ve had it for longer than I can remember…

(Might I mention that Polkadots and Moonbeams happens to be across the way from my favorite L.A. eatery, Joan's On Third. There are other sweet, little boutiques on the block stretch as well. Makes for a lovely lunch and stroll!)