Sari Sunrise

Ok, so it's not really a sari (kameez? is that right?), but it does have a gorgeous sunrise look going on. I picked up this tunic at the thrift store for $3 with no clue what to do with it. I just knew it was beautiful and I had to have it.

After getting it home, putting it on, and looking at it in the mirror for quite some time, pinching here, pulling there, I finally decided that it didn't need much to turn it into a lovely autumn dress. First, I ripped out the burgundy facings from the insides of the side slits; I'll use these later.

Next, I chopped off the sleeves.

Then I took in the sides enough for a more fitted dress.

I could barely get it over my head after taking in the sides, since the fabric is not at all stretchy. So I installed a zipper in one side to fix that.

I added bust darts to reduce the gaping at the armholes.

It was still a little baggy in the belly, so I added a couple darts down the front.

Finally, I used those ripped-out facings to finish the armhole edges.

This dress is perfect for Texas autumn now.

It has the gorgeous fall colors, but it's sleeveless, so I can pair it with a jacket or sweater when there's a chill in the air, or wear it alone on those 80F/27C degree days.