shorten or pass on? - YouLookFab Forum

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Dressing

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shorten or pass on?

qfbrenda

Veteran

I'm trying to decide whether to shorten this, or whether it's too dated or just not right for me. It's long... down to my lower calf. I'm only 5'1" and see now that it's too long for my short self. LOL So I pinned it up to see what it would look like shorter and I'm not sure what I think. Is it worth shortening?

I'm nervous posting this. I don't think it's that flattering of a picture.

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Dressing

16 replies

Latest reply was from AJ

MsMary

Veteran

Honestly, I don't think it's doing you any particular favors. The waist doesn't seem to hit you in any place that makes much sense. I think you can do better for your pretty self!

LeahJanes

I concur with MaryK, pass it on. I do love the colour though, chambray is the ultimate neutral in my books.

Sally

Veteran

Nice colour but I think it is too big and there are other things that would show off your figure better. I dont know if you are a sewer because there is always the option of using the material if you like it.

P.S I know its scarey posting pictures but you look great and everyone here is supportive. It gets addictive.

MsMaven

Veteran

From the photo it looks like the proportions would be off at this length. How about making it tunic length?

qfbrenda

Veteran

Thanks for the honest opinions. I am a sewer, so I can do the alterations. A tunic... I never thought of that. Am I too short for a tunic? The dress has ties in the back, so I'm not sure what length to make it.

Christie

I don't post photos, so you're braver than I am ... and you'll be rewarded with great advice and ideas.

The suggestion to try it as a tunic is a good one.

Jenava

(website)

Veteran

The issue is the waist. If it didn't have that drop waist it might work. Also those little ties in the back are usually a sign that it's dated. I like this color on you a lot, though. I think you could look for a chambray shirt, tunic, or shirt dress, since the color is so nice on you. But i'd definately pass on this one.

Marley

Veteran

LOVE the color on you, but the proportions just aren't right for your pretty figure. If you can alter this to some type of tunic, it might work. Keep posting photos - you will get nothing but support and positive suggestions here! (I think that tunics for petites need to be shorter than normal - if I remember right from what Angie has said! Also, the length has something to do with your body type - do you know your body type?)

chewyspaghetti

Veteran

I vote pass

RandomThoughts (Andrea)

Veteran

I say pass. I like the color and the pintucks but I am not a fan of the drop waist. I think it is a very difficult style to wear. You could do so much better.

qfbrenda

Veteran

I think I'm a rectangle. I used to be an hourglass, but having several kids changed my waist. LOL I need to do photos so you ladies can help me figure it out for sure.

I'm glad to get honest, but sweet feedback. It was the waist that threw me as well.

I'm sure glad I found this place.

dottie

Since you are a sewer, I vote for trying the tunic length. Find the narrowest spot on your leg/thigh (for a flattering length) and hem to there. Then try it with leggings/skinnys and see what you think - you may be pleasantly surprised! You might also try a long sleeved black T.

mumtojessandluke

OOH I'd love to play with that one
I'd take off the sleeves. Then I'd shorten it, and take away the drop waist, by adding belt loops to the bottom of the drop waist. The dress will then flounce over the belt and the skirt section would be shorter. A large woven light brown belt would be tops.
Worn with white shorts underneath.

It doesn't have to go to landfill or be passed up on- Just thinking, playing with it would be more fun!

mumtojessandluke

wilson

Hi! I'm so glad you posted this and I'll be looking forward to seeing more! I'm going to be really bold and say 100% pass it on. The pleats down the front and the square neckline make it look really boxy on you and I can see you have nice curves that could be much better served. Also, in my opinion it looks very dated. That being said, you have the right idea to wear your dresses at a better length to show off your calves; they are very shapely and deserve to be seen!

AJ

Veteran

So nice to see you qfbrenda! By the way, what does the qf stand for?

I'm with Wilson...pass. It seems too big and the drop waist is difficult for most to wear. If you enjoy sewing and have the time to experiment with this, then by all means alter away. : ) I can picture what MTJAL is saying about putting a belt where the drop waist is and flouncing it up a bit, but then you need to balance that extra volume above the belt, by making sure under the belt the tunic is taken in and looks sleek. I hope you don't mind that I added some photos for illustration:
1) Big drapey cardi as my starting point.
2) Used belt to shorten the length and volume is above the belt but under the belt I kept it sleek with a straight denim skirt and boots.
3) Lesson learned...I did not keep it sleek under the belt and now the cardi looks more like a belted bathrobe and there is just too much going on.

Yes, let's get your shape sorted out so you can start experimenting what fit tips best compliment it.

I am an Inverted triangle...shoulders are my widest part, very little waist definition and straight hips. Plus my tummy is the first to gain weight/bloat. I have 3 kids, so minimizing my mommy pooch is a top priority when I get dressed.

4)I really like peplum tops , especially when paired with a-line skirts, because of the little flare under the peplum seam along with the drape of the skirt hides the curvature of the lower abs.

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