I found this lovely surplice style, belted maxi dress at Nordstrom Rack. I worked with my seamstress (Sunny at Park’s Design) to re-design the dress to better accommodate my style and silhouette:

Since I am petite (under 5’2”), I often need garments altered here and there to accommodate a short torso and proportionately longer legs and a column like body shape.

We raised the shoulders; the sleeves needed to be shortened, and she placed a snap at the neckline for security and coverage. We removed a substantial amount of fabric (triangular shape) from either side, hip to floor to reduce the fullness which was a tad overpowering for me and didn’t complement my figure. Generally, I don’t wear belts as I have a short torso; so off with the belt and we used the fabric to make a coordinating mask! Additionally, she removed the elastic that was situated slightly above my waist so that the front/bodice would lay smoothly and not pucker or billow. Lastly, we turned the maxi into a high low style to make walking easier and to showcase the boots which I wanted to be part of the overall look.

I love envisioning how dresses and other pieces of clothing can be transformed to create an even more pleasing silhouette, fit and look for my clients and myself.  It does require an understanding of what is possible as well as collaboration with a creative, talented seamstress. I have learned a great deal about tailoring, design and re-design of clothing due to my close association with several excellent seamstresses over the years and am always delighted to share those insights with my clients.

Feel free to ask me for referrals for stellar seamstresses and tailors in the DMV area!