Use your own vintage

Breathing new life into past cherished items is one of the greatest joys in vintage. I wrote before that knowing the story is also part of the joy. So why not look within your own home, objects with your great story to create a new one? This idea dawned on me when packing for a weekend beach get a way.

Desiring a dress that was casual enough or a beach dinner but stunning enough to make an impression I thought to an old favorite- my white lace cutout dress. Bought almost 8 years ago I've worn the dress only twice. Despite loving it and how it makes me feel wearing it- the white sheer material was hardly ever appropriate. Since the white was the problem, I decided to take a chance and dye it- tie dye it.

 Materials:

1 package of fabric dye (I always use RIT brand)
Rubber bands
Large pot
Bleach
*rubber gloves

 Mix dye according to package instructions. Wear gloves, I did not and my hands were blue for two days! My item was small enough to follow instructions for stove top dye method. In my garmet I double-processed. Once to get overall color then "tie-bleached" to get a lighter version of the same color. I mixed bleach with water (probably 1 part bleach to 5 parts water)and then followed tie dying instructions. YouTube has tutorials for tie dying techniques which are helpful for first timers.




The dress was originally bought for a fancy 18 year old-me's date. Found at a boutique on Elmwood Avenue in Buffalo, NY it was magical. My mom helped me pick it out and said she pictured one day my wedding dress looking like this lacey number. The night I wore it I felt beautiful.

 Yesterday 27 year old me wore it for a beach weekend with my finance. In a new shade and with confidence that only age can build, I felt magical. We dined ocean front then took the dress right onto the shore creating one of our best memories yet.

 Man do I love this dress.