One thing I constantly hear from people is that they either don’t have the time to or are too lazy to upcycle and mend clothing. So in this post I give you the easiest possible way to make an upcycled skirt (it literally took me 5 minutes!). I’ve also styled it 4 entirely different ways!

An Upcycled Skirt from an Empire Line Dress

Why did I Upcycle this Empire Line Dress?

My sister-in-law was looking at getting rid of this dress. I had requested her to give me any clothing she was looking at discarding.

To wear it as is just wasn’t my style. I am not a fan of elasticated waistlines and have upcycled this style previously as well.

Moreover, the colour and style were really restricting. I wanted to use that colour to add some quirk to an outfit rather than be a whole outfit. A neon lace dress was a bit extra. Also, not something that will get many rewears.

How did I make an Upcycled Skirt from this dress?

This is the easiest upcycling project I’ve done till date!

No sewing, no measuring!

All you need is an old, elasticated empire line dress and a pair of scissors.

Lay the dress on a table and match the elastic in the front and back perfectly.

Then take a pair of scissors. Start cutting right above the elastic stitch so the elastic is part of the lower or skirt half of the dress.

Once you’ve cut through neatly, you have a new elasticated skirt!

You can mend any uneven edges you may have. I’m ok with small imperfections and used the skirt as is.

Styling an Upcycled Skirt 4 Ways!

I’ll start with my favourite style and move to the most obvious way to wear it in the end.

1. As a Statement Tier

Wear it under a dress! This will add length to a short dress AND will make it a statement piece! Find the right contrast and accessories and you’re all set! The skirt gives a tiered look with a short dress and a statement hem for a slightly longer one. Just ensure the length of your dress is shorter than the length of your skirt. This is by far my favourite way of styling this skirt!

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2. As a tube top

Thanks to the elasticated belt, this skirt can just as well be a top! Wear it just as a tube top or with a jacket over. You can also pair it with a jumper for a casual look.

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3. As a Beach cover-up

Adds some style and color to your beach trip! Wearing a neon lace cover-up to the beach with flip-flops will make one bright bold statement!

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4. And finally, as a skirt 🙂

Here I pair it with a cardigan, my black upcycled V-neck t-shirt and a jacket. Perfect for a casual party or date night.

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