I ran across someone making a variation of this cute shirt dress at a craft fair and I thought it was a brilliant upcycle of thrift store finds. You know I love a thrift store makeover! The project involved basic sewing seams so I figured why not see if I could pull it off. It came out so cute I thought you might like a quick tutorial on how to make this DIY Thrift Store Shirt Dress that cost me just $8.
I started with two men’s shirts. The one for the top of the dress should fit true to size, you could also use a women’s shirt with darts if you want a more fitted dress. The shirt for the bottom should be extra large with enough room to flow easily around your hips.
Now let’s do a little cutting! Cut the top shirt straight across where it hits your natural waist. The bottom shirt will get the sleeves cut off and a straight cut across the yolk anywhere you like below the collar. The shorter the cut the shorter the dress so it is probably wise to be generous on the first cut. You can always cut more later if it is too long. Also, be aware of the buttons on both shirts, cut mid-way between the buttons so that when sewn back together you will have even button placement.
Now it’s time to sew them together. Start by aligning the packets with the right side of the fabrics together. Pin across until you reach the side seams of the top shirt. Center the back sides of the top and bottom shirt and again pin until you get to the side seam. Now pull the excess of the bottom shirt at the side seams. You will stitch the first inch or two of the side seams before seaming the top and bottom shirts together.
After joining the top and bottom, the result should resemble the image on the left. To achieve the desired fit, wear the dress inside out and pin down the sides. Seam along the pinned path, and afterward, trim any surplus fabric for a polished result.
If you would like to make a sash to go with your dress use the excess fabric from the leaves and bottom of the top shirt.
I had to piece the sash fabric together but I think the two-toned sash adds more interest.
This thrift store upcycle is truly brilliant, and the DIY shirt dress turns out super cute. It is a creative and budget-friendly project that highlights the beauty of transforming thrifted items into a fashionable statement piece. The endless combinations of thrifted shirts also make it a unique and personalized project every time.
