DIY TRIBAL PRINT KIMONO

Monday, August 8, 2011
Tribal and aztec prints have featured heavily in the last couple of seasons, and don't look to be going away any time soon. I recently purchased a gorgeous red printed scarf when I was in thailand, with tassels and coins on the ends. As much as I loved it, there isn't a huge need for a scarf in HK until at least December, and I was really sad seeing it just languishing in my closet. I posted a whole year ago here about wanting to make a kimono/poncho style top - and have finally got around to it! Tip: You can use the same technique as shown below to make a winter cape using a thick printed blanket or throw rug.
DIY:
You'll need a large square printed scarf, scissors, and a needle and thread. I used a sewing machine for part of the process but you can easily do it all by hand.
1. Fold your scarf in half and mark the half way line with chalk. Lay the scarf on the floor or on a large table and cut down the chalk line, cutting a little bit over half way through the middle of the fabric.
2. Sew back and forth across the end of the cut in the fabric, so that it doesn't fray or rip.  Then sew the other raw edges - I rolled them over twice and hand stitched.
3. As you can see, in doing this you have cut the neck line into the kimono. Then it on and sew arm holes by simply securing the back and front together with a stitch on the outer edge of the fabric. And its done! The coins and tassels on the edges really add to the top so feel free to add a few things like this if you like. Fringing would also be a fun addition to the ends.
Wearing: DIY kimono, Topshop bikini top, thrifted denim shorts, Nat-sui flats, Karen Walker Sunglasses.