How to Update Old Spring Shorts

How to Update Old Spring Shorts



Reinvigorating your closet instead of buying new clothes is a great way to help your wardrobe budget go a little further. As an essential part of your spring wardrobe, you can update your old shorts with just a few simple alterations. With the help of basic sewing skills and your local fabric shop, you can breathe new life into an ensemble from seasons past.







Things You'll Need:





Fabric dye



Needle



Thread



Sewing machine









Step
1



Change the color of your old shorts by using fabric dye. Materials like cotton and some synthetics accept dye readily, making a successful color switch an easy thing to do.




Step
2



Look for updated buttons at your local fabric store. Decorative buttons applied to the cuffs and pockets of a pair of shorts can change their entire look from hum-drum to stylish.




Step
3



Alter the hem length of your shorts to update them for wear this season. After leafing through a few
fashion
magazines


, determine this season's desirable length and re-do the hem of your old shorts either shorter or longer, if there's enough hem to let down, in order to match the trend.




Step
4



Pick one trendy item such as a

blouse


or jacket to update your shorts ensemble. Pairing old shorts with a new piece of clothing can quickly change the overall appearance of the outfit. You can get a trendy new look without shelling out the cash for the entire ensemble.




Step
5



Mix it up by pairing different shoes with your shorts. With looks from high espadrilles with shorts to ballet flats with capris, you can create a whole new look by simply swapping an old shoe silhouette for an updated one.




Step
6



Dress up a pair of shorts from last season with this season's hot belt. Whether it's a chain belt around loose pallazos or a wide above-the-waist look, you can achieve the season's hottest looks by adding just one new accessory.




Step
7



Update an old pair of jean shorts by creating a new skirt for spring. Simply remove the inseam and top stitch the front and back panels together to create a cute, short jean skirt.







Tips & Warnings









Don't throw away your worn-out jeans and pants from last spring. If the seams are sturdy and there is wear left in the seat, you can convert them into a stylish pair of shorts by cutting and hemming them to the desired length.








Don't use a bleach bath to lighten your old shorts. Bleach may damage the fibers of the fabric and result in splitting and tears. It is better to dye your shorts a shade or two darker instead.



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