WIW: Big Scarf As Breezy, Blouson-y Boho Dress/Tunic Overlay

I know fall clothes have been steaming up the boards lately, but....

Calling those with any boho inclinations who are battling the heat!

Despite short summers in my part of the PNW, this was a year I wanted to spend on some nicer summer wear/shoes.

While that left my always-bad Really Hot Weather casual clothing even more ignored than usual, I saw a big-scarf-as-dress display earlier this summer and thought, "hmmmmmmmm."

Once I found a print in the colors I wear I jumped, and am so glad I did.

I've been wearing the dress-as-scarf a lot -- as well as a tunic variation that allows for a bit of arm coverage/sun protection.

[Pretend tunic in photo is worn over a sleeveless mid-thigh jersey number + rolled skinny jeans or a tank + shorts. ;)]

For reference:
• this is an ~ 80 x 38 inch scarf

(directions: hold lengthwise and fold into an ~ square; then fold again into rectangle, putting folded edge to free edges; knot one corner (tying free to folded edges); unfold free edges so you can slip arms through openings*)

• with a bit of blousing, it hits above the knee on 5'4 me

• make sure your underlayer is something that offers coverage as this baby has a tendency to blow open when/if breezes hit

Photo 1: Scarf as Dress, knot near neck (belt worn to be at hips in front)
Photo 2: Underlayer dress (scarf hits at same place on 5'4 me)
Photo 3: Scarf as Dress (side shot + overlap shot)
Photo 4: Scarf as Tunic, knot worn lower on back to allow for arm coverage)
Photo 5: Scarf on hanger (knotted) to show openings for arms

* ps I am scarf-impaired and terrible at describing this knotting technique, but didn't see any tutorials at "Scarf Blogger" MaiTai's site or elsewhere (help welcome!)

13 years ago

Suz

(website)

Veteran

Well, beautiful boho! Look at this!!

I especially love the tunic option. It looks very late 20s, early 30s (I mean 1920s and 30s) movie star glam.

You are so clever, Vix.

And I am so NOT boho!! I look at this and not only do I know that I could never get the knotting to work, but I'd also feel as if I were in a costume. Yet on you, it is marvelous. This is what I love about YLF. We get to enjoy each other's differences.

Now...when it comes to that blue dress, I could meet you there....

Jaime

So pretty! I could never manage it but it looks beautiful on you.

Firecracker (Sharan)

Beautiful! I would love to try this. Thanks for posting.

KathyL

That is so cool! Love the tunic look as well!

Vix

Suz, Shevia, Firecracker, and Kathy --

Thank you! I am more streamlined most of the time, so this makes my Persnickety Bohemian side happy.

We won't speak of my attempt to recreate the knot (or describe it). FC, I hope you can work it out -- I will try to help if not here or in a PM.

Suz, totally agree about the fun of getting to see others in looks that don't appeal for some reason (personality, body type, lifestyle etc etc). And the blue knit dress has been great for travel and casual evenings out...you should try to find your version!

Scarlet

So gorgeous!

Oh that is a beautiful scarf! I don't think I have one that size, but I will keep my eye out for one.

Along the same lines, I posted a scarf as vest technique:
http://youlookfab.com/welookfa.....e-to-plonk

http://youlookfab.com/welookfa.....arf-vest-2

http://youlookfab.com/welookfa.....aj-a-scarf

Beth Ann

It looks lovely, Vix. You've layered it masterfully and the piece itslelf is lovely. What makes this outfit really work is your open and upright posture --- like a dancers. Thanks for sharing!

Astrid

I love this look! You look great. I'll definitely try this myself.

Scarlet -- Many thanks! I know you're a big scarf person, and if it appeals I could see this looking wonderful on you during (and after) these exciting maternity months!

AJ -- I remembered you'd done a scarf-as-vest look; wouldn't it be funny if the store employee who did the display I saw is a YLF reader?

Thanks for the direct links (with detailed directions). This definitely takes a pretty big scarf -- I couldn't make it work with ones I thought were big enough.

Beth Ann -- You are too kind; thank you! I have a terrible tendency to slouch when on the computer and have been trying to retrain myself...glad upright is lookin' good, ha.

Astrid -- Hello to my Boho-loving pal! Thank you! I could see this on you (and you have the advantage of a nicely proportioned natural waist if you want to belt there!).

biscuitsmom

*swoons* and fans self

Biscuitsmom -- Wanted to add my thanks!

[I'm fanning myself too but for different reasons...100 degree heat. /wimp]

Ornella

Vix, it is *always* such a treat when you post and the visuals are even bigger feast if that's possible.

JulieJohn

Very fun! I love it and thank you so much for modeling and explaining such a unique idea!

Vix, my pleasure! I want to try this SOOOO much! Im guessing I will need to buy some material, instead of using a scarf, cuz I have a 50 inch bust measurement, 40 inch waist...I should double the material, yes?? I am a size 16W, generally. So I should get a 100 by 80? or what do you think? Sorry to pester you w/questions, but Im in serious *need* mode! lol Appreciate any advice you can give me

Ornella!!! I am so remiss in congratulating you on a successful relocation. I read your recap when it was already buried in the archives; I think about how much energy and organization it must have taken to get from point A to B and feel even lazier.

Hope to see more of you in your "new life" clothes when you get the chance.

JulieJohn -- Thanks so much for chiming in. It *feels* fun.

BMom -- Argh, I suck at estimating and always end up with too little or too much fabric when buying things for others to make. I'm sorry that I can't remember if you are close to my height or one of our taller members, as that would affect yardage too.

Why don't you do a "Calling all sewists -- quick question" post? Because when I have questions like yours I either do crazy things like clip a bedsheet into the rough size I think might work, or I do the smarter thing and ask my experts, ha!

[and keep us posted on your results...]

Parsley

Oh, Vix, these are gorgeous!
I've GOT to give this a try. I wonder if I can do it with a 54" square?
Great idea! Thanks for sharing.

Ms Wearer-of-the-true-20s-glam black geometric top --

Glad you like the look, and also glad you've joined our smallish band of (public) YLF boho fans. [Liking everything boho is not a prereq for participating!]

Never say never, but I think you need material that's more of a 2:1 ratio in terms of length to width.

I tried it with some smaller but still rectangular scarves and didn't have enough material to get my arms through the cute little openings at the same time. But do report back!

Great idea, Vix! As soon as I figure out how to word it right, I will. Thanks for mentioning the height thing too- didnt even think of that! Im 5'7" Like the bedsheet idea too

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