Aztec prints is one of those trends that I really like but have a hard time actually committing to. I’m not sure what it is about it, but I have never been able to find an aztec print that I really like, especially on a piece of clothing that I like. But when I found this sweater from Kiki La’Rue, I actually really liked the simple and graphic black and white print and thought I’d give it a go. They sent it to me, but after one second of having it on, I decided it was just too boxy and overwhelming for my figure.
But since my sisters and I were doing a mini makeover post today, I figured this new sweater was as good as any to put on the chopping block. So with this pin in mind, I took in the sides and hemmed the front at an angle, which I think is a much more flattering cut than the original square lapels.
Once it’s cool enough to actually wear a chunky sweater, I’ll be wearing it a ton. One easy fix made a world of difference for me!
^^before^^
you can see how overwhelming the sweater is on my frame, and how the boxy cut isn’t super flattering
Step 1. Turn your sweater inside out and pin the sides flat. Then sew from the end of the sleeve to the hem of the sweater as shown with the red dashed line. Cut off the seam allowance (cutting notches in the seam allowance at the armpit curve to avoid bunching) and zigzag or serge the raw edge. Repeat on the other side.
Step 2. Try on the sweater and determine where you want to cut and mark with a pin on the lapel and the hem. Take the sweater off and carefully cut from one pin to the other in a straight line.
Then take your raw edge and fold over twice and pin in place to create a rolled hem. Sew with a straight line along the rolled hem, securing it in place.
See the difference between the two sides? Repeat on the second side.
And you’re done! A much more flatter, less overwhelming sweater with a quick fix!
______________
sweater: kiki la’rue c/o
tee: old navy
jeans: kohls
necklace: kiki la’rue c/o
boots: forever 21 (similar)
watch: michael kors
Brilliant! Beautiful!
I love this! What a simple, perfect adjustment. It definitely suits you better afterword. Thanks for sharing!
You made that look soooo much better! Really cute!
Jenni
http://www.foundinmyclosetblogspot.com
I love the sweater. I never buy sweaters like that either because they drown my petite build. I could totally do this refash and make it work for me though. Looks fantastic with those pants, too!
LOVE how you hemed the cardigan! Such a great idea! Love it paired with those skinny jeans!
The Style Storm
xo, Christina
THAT is a huge improvement. And I'm loving those boots (which I know you've had for a while).
This is brilliant! However, every single time I take in both the sides AND the sleeves, I end up with lots of puckering and (unintentional) ruching (sp?). It's hideous! I'm a novice sewer. Any suggestions?
Make sure that the sweater is completely flat when you pin and sew it. If the sides are angled even a little bit it will create puckering. Also, cut your seam allowances as small as possible (1/4" wide) and add cut notches into the seam allowance at the armpit curve to allow the seam allowance to allow full movement and no puckering.
Also, sometimes my projects pucker just from altering them, even if I do the things above, but once I press my seams the puckering completely flattens out.
Hope that helps!
That is EXACTLY what I want to do to all the aztec sweaters I see o that I'll actually want to wear them! Genius.
Love it!!
Gorgeous sweater!!!!! Love how you altered it.
Agi:)
vodkainfusedlemonade.com
This is amazing! I wish I was talented with my sewing machine…lol
So – tell me about those jeans, I really like how they look – what are the pros and cons about them and would you recommend them? or another way of asking – would you buy another pair?
They're a super soft material with a little bit of stretch, so they're super comfortable. They get a little loose throughout the day, but not too bad. The only downside for me is that the ankle is a little looser than I like — I like a very skinny jean. But I think I'll just alter them so they are a bit more fitted at the ankle. I'd definitely recommend them!
Great work and result! 🙂
Love
Tabea
http://wolkedrei.blogspot.de/
This is brilliant Merrick! The whole look was instantly transformed. Note to self: learn how to sew :).
Seriously, you're amazing! You make this look so easy and that sweater looks 100 times better on you now!
-AJ
FitTravelerAJ.com
Fantastic! Want to come alter my entire wardrobe for me?? 😉
Haha, if I wasn't so busy altering my entire wardrobe, I would 🙂
Your posts make me want to learn to sew! Now if only I could find the free time… someday 🙂
Found you from your sis Janssen and I just have to tell you how refreshing your style blog is. I love your style and love that you re-use pieces in outfits often, that's real! Anyway, you are darling and inspiring and I hope you have a lovely day!
Thank you so much for your kind comment, Ali! I seriously so appreciate it! Thanks for reading along!
lovely! Your closet tweaks are always so spot on & approachable!
xx
Here&Now
Can I just send you a pile of clothes to work you magic on? Thanks!
http://kacieskloset.blogspot.com/
You did such a great job on this! So cute!
xoxo,
Laura
http://lauraisthriftingthroughlife.blogspot.com/
Love the look! Looks so much better after you cleaned it up! You make it look super easy!
I have a sweater I’m going to do this with. Thanks for the super easy tutorial!