Introduction: How to Refashion a Shirt With Statement Sleeves
This is my take of the current statement sleeve trend using a thrifted shirt and skirt. It's an easy project where you graft decorative bell sleeves to a plain shirt. This project only took me 1 hour and cost me $6. Great project for beginning sewers.
Step 1: Chop Off Sleeves
I chopped off about two-thirds of the sleeves. I wasn't in love with the collar, so I chopped off that too.
Step 2: Cut Off the Bottom of the Skirt to Make Statement Sleeves
I cut off the bottom half of the skirt to make the statement sleeves. I chose this circle skirt because I loved the high contrast of the pattern and knew if would make the sleeves "pop".
Step 3: Make Statement Sleeves
I cut the top of the statement sleeves the same size as the blouse sleeves and sewed the sides. The circle skirt I used had a natural flare to it, so I didn’t feel the need to gather the statement sleeves. If you are using a rectangular piece of fabric for your statement sleeves, I recommend cutting it twice the size of your sleeve opening and gathering it for a poufy look.
Step 4: Attach Statement Sleeves to Your Shirt
With right sides together, sew your statement sleeves to your shirt sleeves.
Step 5: Enjoy Your Shirt!
A small change like statement sleeves can make a dramatic difference. Enjoy your new shirt and expect to receive lots of compliments.
For more refashion ideas and tutorials, visit my blog Pivot Point Patterns.

Participated in the
First Time Author Contest 2016
3 Comments
7 years ago
Such a great thrift store hack! You gave these pieces a beautiful new life :)
7 years ago
Great shirt design. You should enter this in the First Time Author contest.
Reply 7 years ago
Thanks for the tip. Just submitted it. Wish me luck.