Introduction: How to Refashion a Shirt With Statement Sleeves

By Pivot Point Patterns
About: I breathe new life into old clothes by upcycling thrifted finds into new garments. It's possible to be fashionable and sustainably responsible on a small budget. I am happiest when I am sewing and working with…

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.