Diy Fashion: Fancy Tank Tops

You'll either need straight pins and a sewing machine or pins, needle, and thread. Don't be afraid if sewing is not exactly your thing. None of these modifications will require that much sewing, so don't be afraid if you're only a novice. Of course you'll need the shirts, which are available lots of places, for many different prices, the cheapest being the 3-pack available in the underwear section of places like Wal-Mart, Kmart, and Target. For the ribbon and lace, go to a local fabric store or art supply store. Think flirty and fun - bright pink ribbon, polka dots, even ribbon with pearls sewn to it. Since you're only using a little bit, a bright color you wouldn't normally consider wearing might be just the thing.

There are also many patterned options. Get both small and large pieces of lace, depending on what you plan to do with it. It helps to have an idea of what you want your shirt to look like, but experimentation is also fine. Ask if they have any ends, remainders, or already cut pieces - since you don't need very much of it, you may be able to get it at some kind of discount. This project should be fun, and should provide you with some exciting tops for fairly little money.

Now that we've gathered the materials for this project, I'll give you some ideas. There are many different things you can do with just a few materials. For instance: Position a strip of lace to sit on the shirt just below your bust line. Pin it down and then sew the edges to the shirt. Finish off with a cute bow of the same material, either directly in the middle or jaunted off to one side or the other. This is a really popular look. Another idea: Add a bow to one strap for a trendy look, or both for a frillier effect. Adding lace to the tops of the armholes, or stitching ribbon with pearls sewn onto it around the neck and bottom of the tank gives the tank a flirty, girly feel. Another idea: sew or glue a silk flower to the shirt just above your heart - just make sure the flower isn't too heavy. The last idea involves more cutting and sewing than the previous ones: you cut a v-shaped notch in the front of the shirt and add a lace insert, making sure to sew it in securely so that the edges don't fray. Alternately, for a "punk" look, forget the lace and use safety pins instead. Or combine the two looks! Adding ribbon and lace to what is basically a man's style shirt creates a really fun and funky mix of styles. It's up to you to find a style that works for you.