Thursday, August 28, 2014

Doilies + Shoes = Perfection!

I found these green shoes at a Goodwill when home visiting in MI. I loved the color but whenever I put them on I felt like they stood out too much, and not in a good way. So, they were not getting any use. I've seen some sandals with a lace front and leather straps that got me thinking about remaking these shoes, so with the help of a gorgeous thrifted doily, I got to work!
First, I wasn't sure which to use, but once I decided, it was a matter of choosing the best layout, hand stitching the doily in place...
and trimming off the excess!
I trimmed them a little closer, then stitched some bias binding along the bottom edge to secure the doily and give a more finished look. Oh, and I trimmed off the lil bits sticking out, too.

Well, this got me thinking of another pair of similar shoes that could use a facelift. I grabbed two of these four doilies I'd thrifted (they were more stiff), fabric glue (the strong stuff) and got to work!
The main issue was the backs that'd gotten scuffed. First I used the glue to repair those areas...then applied the largest part of each doily to the front.
The bits I trimmed off went on the backs, which you'll see in a second ;).
Here are a few shots of each pair in action.
The backs!

I chose a vintage lace pleated slip/skirt with a white cotton slip underneath, a knotted gray T, and coral and green jewelry to style them.


I am excited to pair these with distressed denim and chambray, or leather...just for a bit of edge. Hope you love these as much as I do!!! They were so fun to do, and you could really make both pairs no-sew with a good fabric glue...just be mindful whether it dries clear or changes the color of your fabric, lace, trim, etc.

Here's the before and after of each!


I've got some more fun things lined up and will be sharing sneakpeeks on Instagram! Happy Refashioning!

Peace,
Andrea

17 comments:

  1. Very clever. The doilies add so character to otherwise dull shoes!!

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    1. Thanks, Agy, and again for sharing it over on Facebook! I appreciate your support :)

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  2. So freakin' creative! They look beautiful!

    Silvia

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    1. Thank you, Silvia, I'm so glad you like them!

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  3. So cool! I love how you are showcasing the old doilies which are so beautiful but not much used these days :-) JJ

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    1. I know what you mean, JJ, I was hoarding that first doily thinking maybe I'd simply preserve it, but I wanted to somehow show it off! I have some ideas for the remaining portion, so that none will go to waste :)

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  4. I love the shoes! Great makeover.

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    1. Thank you so much, AlleRaa! I appreciate you stopping by :)

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  5. Just catching up on the last few posts, Andrea ... I love how you are giving older or unworn pieces new life!

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    1. Thanks Jenny, I was noticing that too! I often go through my closet to see what's getting use and what isn't. So excited to start wearing all of these :) And thank you for taking time to come by!

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  6. You made both pairs adorable!!! I'm trying to pick a favorite, but I just love them BOTH! :o)

    JJ
    www.dressupnotdown.blogspot.com

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    1. Aww, thanks for stopping by!!! I'm still thinking about those neon giraffe earrings you just posted about ;) Thank you as well for the lovely compliment...I can't pick a favorite either!

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  7. Pretty shoe fix and i <3 your whole outfit!

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    1. Thank you, Michele! I appreciate it :) (I also love this outfit and can't wait to wear it again!!! Once spring rolls around...)

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  8. Ahhh LOVE LOVE LOVE them! The coral ones are adorable too <3

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    1. Thanks :) Now go make yourself a pair! Can't wait to see your version.

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  9. I wanted to thank you for this excellent read!! I definitely loved every little bit of it. I have you bookmarked your site to check out the new stuff you post. totshoes.com/

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