New Life for an Old Dress

Since childhood I've been fascinated with the array of handmade dresses in my mother's closet--mostly from her hippie days in the late 60s (made out of paisley printed tablecloths and curtains) and from various weddings in the 1970s. Although she and I love them all dearly, most will never see the light of day again except at costume parties (hint-hint, someone host a party!). This dress, however, had vintage potential. I finally bit the bullet and removed the 70s flutter sleeves and wore the altered version to a museum opening last night.


My mother at her sister's wedding in 1976.


Me, in the dress about 3 weeks ago, before alterations.


Me, in the dress yesterday before heading to Oakland.