The Garrott Tee: Look #9-DIY Time!

As a fashion designer, a basic tshirt silhouette just begs me to cut it up.  It's not long before I take to my older tees and slash it here, rip it there...I just don't seem to keep my tshirts in their original state for more than few wears.

The Garrott Tee is no exception...

No tee is safe when I'm with scissors!

Many of you may wonder just how some of us girls achieve the perfectly disheveled slashed up tees we wear around town with such natural nonchalance.  While many others know exactly how we go about getting that wide neckline, slouchy fit, total Do-It-Yourself style.

This post is NOT for those ladies that know what I'm talking about...no no, this is for the non-patternmakers, the ones not schooled in the fashion trade, those that have a couple of tshirts lying around that they just want to unleash some wrath on.

(or say, a insanely oversized vintage concert tee, the perfect specimen for a little DIY cutting!)

Here we go ladies...a quick tutorial in how to cut your tshirt!

-How to Make a Wide Open Neckline-

1. Start with a basic tshirt;

(I prefer one slightly oversized, it lends itself to a nice slouchy effect when finished)

2. Get out your supplies, you'll need scissors, a ruler, and a writing utensil.

(if you've got a French Curve, all the better)

3. Measure the shoulders on each side

(sometimes tshirt, especially after many washings, become wonky and not symmetric.) 

Make sure they're a similar length; if not you'll have to do some fudging of measurements

4. Once both shoulders are measured and its determined they're about the same length, decide how open you're going to want your neckline. 

 (It's best to go with a slightly open neck, as you can go wider and wider later on, but you can never go back to less wide once cut.)

I tend to start with a 2 to 2-1/2" wider neckline on each side

(making the neck essentially 5" wider total when finished)

Mark the shoulder your desired measurement over from neckline opening

(shown here, I've gone 2-1/2" wider-measured over from shoulder/neck point)

Do this on both right and left shoulder.

5. Next, find the center front neck point. 

To do this, lay your ruler at shoulder/neck points and take half that measurement--that's your center front neck.

6. Now that you found your center front neck, determine how low you want the center neck to be...this is called your Neck Drop.  Measure down center front neck and mark the lowest point you want your neck drop to be.

(I've determined about 1-1/2" is a good neck drop for this tee--I didn't want to cut into the graphics of the tee)

7.  Now, following the curve of original neckline, draw your new neckline connecting shoulder mark to center front neck drop mark. 

(This is where your french curve can come in handy-but if you don't have a french curve, you can just eyeball it.)

It'll look something like below:

8. Now cut along this new neckline

(I prefer to cut just slightly below my drawn line so that I don't have any marker lines left on my tshirt when finished)

It should look something like below:

And voila!  Bestowed upon you is the finished product...a DIY, authentic, one of a kind Garrott Tee.

Now get your scissors, get your cut on, and show me your creativity!

How you wear your DIY tee is up to you...I prefer to keep it casual.

Since it was a typical day, being more daring was not called for, therefore I went with a wifebeater underneath.

However, on the weekends, I've been known to go sans tank underneath.  Sometimes I like to take risks and show a little more than the 'rents would prefer.  But  hey...when you're an adult you can do what you like, right?

And uh, yeah...."I'm an adult"  so I'll wear what I please, and wear it as I want.

Wearing:

*Gray"Without My Muse Tee" w/DIY detail(s)-Garrott Designs

*White tank-Hanes

*White knit hat-Urban Oufitters

*Skinny Jeans-Uniqlo

*Brown sweater/cardigan-Alberto Makali

*Brown suede shoes-See by Chloe

*Earrings and Necklace-Forever 21

*Leather bracelet-H&M

Stay tuned...this is NOT the end of my Garrott Tee altering adventures.

Oh no...I plan to cut this up a few more times, its a work in progress.

-And I'll be sure to tell you just how to go about cutting it yourself; you know...so if you ever feel inclined you can show me just how you got "crazy" with the scissors!

Daily Wear: Classically Mod

I swear by my Alberto Makali day dresses...every winter they keep me "put together" and somewhat well dressed.  And they never seem to go out of style, they're always plenty relevant to my current style, mood, and look I'm striving for.  Lucky me for getting to work there, eh?

For instance, this dress is from 2-3 fall/winter seasons ago.  It almost looks vintage, a bit mod, no?

Yeah well its not vintage, and although a few years old, its still plenty up-to-date.

Really, talk about getting your money's worth when we talk $$$:wear ratio.

Unfortunately, winter has reared its very cold cold heart in the direction of NYC.  The wind has been whipping around the buildings, the chill is bitter, and well my body just shivers.  So it seems I barely found myself without the hat and scarf today...not the best of accessories, but warmth comes first in most cases for this fashion girl.

(say what?)

Nevermind, I also get an ugly case of hat head when winter comes around.  Sooooo....guess who couldn't take her hat off for these pics!

Wearing:

*Fuchsia jumper-Alberto Makali

*Black vintage turtleneck-Thrift Store

*Black hosiery-Kohl's

*Black suede shoes-BCBGgirls

*Black knit hat-H&M

*Black/White scarf-Banana Republic

Daily Wear

This could be, any given Monday I've ever experienced:

Again, I pondered an outfit in my head, meticulously planning all the details, add-ons, and layers I could throw together in order to complete the look.  This is all part of my goal to one day get ready for work with ease--and planning an outfit in my head as I work through my daily "get-ready" routine is my first step at doing that.

When I plan an outfit in my head, I usually focus on one main item, then build around that.  And then as I physically put the outfit together, usually an item here or there doesn't work out, and an extra piece here or there ties it together.  (of course sometimes this method fails entirely and I'm left to throw on my trusty basics and head out.)

Today, it was a bit of both--a bit of it coming together, a bit of it not happening so well.  

Take this jacket for instance (I'd been wanting to wear it for quite sometime now--those sleeves!), it was my main focal point.  And from there I had big plans--I was of course getting way beyond myself picturing this black velvet pencil skirt I have (honestly, if I wore something like that to work everyone would assume I was going on a job interview at some point in the day-haha!) and a fitted turtleneck sweater.

Yeah, not my usual.  So cast-off that pencil skirt, throw on my jeans, put it all together.  

Nope.

Turtleneck too short w/jeans, so put on a tank underneath--

OK, good to go.

But in the end, something about the jacket was throwing me off-I think it was the length. 

And as it turns out, what started as my main focus, was tossed aside to reside on my bed 'till I returned from work.  And instead I went with my black wool trench.  

Funny how it all works out.  (Needless to say, in a better attempt to put myself together-I'm going to test out the "picking out the outfit the night before" method and see how that goes for the week.  In fact, I've already taken care of it for tomorrow).

Soooo....pretend I actually committed to wearing this jacket instead of my trench,

and this is what I would've mustered up for today:

Wearing:

*Black/white wool bell sleeve jacket-Alberto Makali

*Black turtleneck sweater-Kohls

*White tank-Hanes

*Dark Denim skinny jeans-Uniqlo

*Black leather booties-Daffy's

*Silver feather shaped earrings-H&M

Daily Wear: And I'm Being Grumpy...

Busy day today....well not really, just lots of little things that all added up to kinda drive me into a tizzy.

First off, RAIN!  and more RAIN!

Which led me to throw on my old boots that are rather beat up and could use a good fixer-up at the cobbler (some new soles, a polish, etc.).

Wearing:

*Black tricot dress-Alberto Makali (IAM division)

*Printed opaque tights-HUE

*Black leather boots-Anne Klein

*Black cameo necklace on gross-grain ribbon-Xmas gift from Dad

Secondly, my tights-love them as I may, the pattern stops so low on my leg that when lifting my arms I expose the sharp cut-off line where it goes from print to solid black.  True, maybe I could do without lifting my arms, but I'm like a little girl, something about short dresses makes me want to lift my arms. (Clearly I am in la-la land because what the heck does a short dress have to do with wanting to lift your arms? Hmmm....maybe it's a born instinct to lure in a lifelong mate?  um, probably not) Luckily this has yet to lead to over-exposure, so far just sharp breaks between print and solid.

Third off, today I got my Doc Marten's.  While I do like them, I'm still a bit on the fence.  I have 30 days to decide-return them or not.  I have to give them a whirl with a few different key items in my wardrobe and then make my decision.  I would like to come to the conclusion before this weekend so I can wear them to Atlantic City as they are soooo very comfy and for once, a sensible pair of shoes.

However, I cannot help but feel:

A.) a bit "high school" in them.  I have such a vivid image of myself (wearing THE shoes of course), hanging out with the friends, listening to Smashing Pumpkins or something of the sort, and surely doing something our parents would not approve of.  

And anyway, why do I need a novelty pair of Docs when I'm going back to my parents' house for X-mas and I know that somewhere buried deep in my closet is my old classic pair circa 1997.

B.) a bit silly.  Docs take a little getting used to after a decade having not put them on your feet.  I mean there's the clown-ish look, or what I feel is goofy (you know, the larger toe area).  

C.) A bit too "grunge",  it just brings back all my combat boot/flannel lovin days of yore.  Seriously, I can't help but feel as if I should be meeting up with  Angela and Rayanne at some point to go fawn after Jordan Catalano (if you're too young to understand the "My So Called Life" reference....then maybe you're too young to understand me)

(oh and some accessories)

And Fourth thing to throw me into a crap mood, I got my halloween costume back from the tailors today.  And while I think it's pretty much as perfect as it could get, meaning the only thing I'm missing from the outfit is a red handbag, it was just the fact that I had to try it on yet again to make sure it was all ok.   And basically, if I didn't already elude to it before, it's not the most comfortable of costumes; NO WAY!  Turns out, I cannot even bend down, or bend my knees or anything to pick something up if it falls.  I'm also afraid to sit down.  I'm afraid that the seams are gonna bust.  Although, I assure you that will make for a great story if that's the case.

Hmmmmph!

So, is anyone freakin out about their costumes for this weekend?  

Is anyone just freakin out?

I can't wait to lose all my money at the roulette table--and sauce those casinos for all the free cocktails my little system can handle.  (although, true story--I've been known to do silly things when this occurs....such as falling asleep in a public restroom at Caesars last time I was in Atlantic City.  I keep trying to tell you guys--I'm a "class" act.)

Daily Wear (and Tear): Houndstooth

Wearing:

*Black bomber jacket-H&M

*White houndstooth dress-Alberto Makali

*Black short-sleeved turtleneck-Target

*Black opaque tights-HUE

*Black suede and patent leather shoes-BCBGgirls

Today's outfit consisted of a dress I've owned for over 2 years.

 

I didn't wear it at all last fall/winter, don't know why--maybe I forgot about it??

It's not my favorite, but something kinda nice.  

Oh, and it's from my work...I get this gift certificate for merchandise every holiday.  

Since we're a better bridge company, it's not always my cup-of-tea when it comes to clothing.  

I don't think it's age appropriate, a little too old for me.

Or maybe I'm a little too old for what I usually wear?

Anyhow, back to the gift certificate deal--so I get this Alberto Makali $$$, and I have to use it somehow or else it goes to waste, right?  Luckily every season there's 2-3 pieces that are worth it.  The rest of the gift certificate usually goes to random stuff like a cool coat here, a sweater for the sister there, or an evening gown because I have oh so many fancy swoirees to attend.

(ummmm, ok--that last part is a total embellishment of the truth.)

And these shoes--they're the product of my scavenger like ways.

An End-of-the-Season find.

Got them last year, or moreso this year around February/March.  

They were super on sale, marked down to next to nothing-throw in one of my many Macy's coupons, and well they might as well have just given them to me for free.

I only wore them twice last year

-the first time I tried them at work, I almost fell, couldn't walk at all.

-The 2nd time, I wore them on a crazy Saturday night,RAN all over Bklyn w/ease.

Funny how that works out.  Now I can walk anywhere without stumbling, I suppose it's time to give them their fair share of foot time.

Well that's all for today. Honestly, I'm really really really looking forward to tomorrow evening--I'm going on a GHOST TOUR of NYC...Don't even get me started on my fondness for the paranormal, especially when I live in the most Haunted City in America. (I'll get into this and my ghost tour moreso on my Weekend Rewind--prepare to be SPOOKED!)

Daily Wear (and Tear)

Monday, October 12, '09
After work, I went to the Halloween store near Union Square. I have to confess-I LOVE HALLOWEEN, and I really enjoy going to that store anytime of the year. However, I won't tell you what I bought because that will ruin the costume SURPRISE. I'll give you a hint-I've already got some mosaic chips from the craft store. Hmmmm........

It's starting to get chilly, FINALLY! Not that it was every excruciatingly hot this summer, but I do enjoy Fall. And I enjoy my fall clothes so much more than spring/summer.
I even got to bust out one of those many coats I mentioned a few posts ago when I came to the realization that I have an over abundance of material items.

Wearing:
*Black/purple jacquard trench coat-Alberto Makali
*Black sweater dress-Rachel Roy
*Gray turtleneck-H&M
*Gray leggings-Uniqlo
*Black leather boots-Anne Klein
*Silver bow earrings-Betsey Johnson

Tuesday, October 13, '09

Thank goodness for birthday gift cards. Just as I've almost made it midway through the month, or midway through my self imposed "Wallet-Lockdown" (which consists of me buying NO new clothing or material objects using money of my own for the entire month of October. With a tiny exception to this rule known as HALLOWEEN). Yes, I took my gift cards and a previous store credit and high-tailed it to Sephora after work.
I bought a few of my Bare Minerals essential products for everyday use, including the SPF 15 MATTE powder foundation...very excited to try that out; I usually just go for their regular stuff, haven't tried the "MATTE". And I got myself some lipstain, a new black sparkly eyeliner, and because of my b-day month being October, I scored a trio of lipglosses as my little birthday treat courtesy of Sephora.
Oh, and I had a 10% off coupon for reaching the ranks of Beauty Style Insiders, or something like that.
I walked away with two gift cards still completely in tact--YES! I can go back soon and buy more goodies at no cost to me. Thanks friends for the lovely gift cards, you're the best!!!

Today I pulled out a printed corduroy blazer that I've had for a few years now. It's a bit ridiculous that I have yet to give this up. First of all, I scored it for super cheap on the pathetic Old Navy sale racks. Second of all, it doesn't have a lapel, which is usually not one of my go-to details when it comes to a blazer. And thirdly, it's OLD NAVY! So why am I so stuck on this? I only wear it 1-2x a year if that!
I don't know what it is, maybe it's the print, maybe it's just that it actually fits ok for being some mass-marketed item (which believe me with an ill-proportioned body as my own, finding bulk consumer goods that fit decently can sometimes be a feat).
Whatever the case, it's what I chose to wear for the day--I was fine this morning, not so much the case after work, it was down right cold!


Wearing:
*Red corduroy blazer-Old Navy
*Black t-shirt-Target
*White scarf-Old Navy
*Blue skinny jeans-Uniqlo
*Brown suede boots-Carlos Santana
*Brown wooden earrings-H&M


If I thought today was chilly after work, whatever shall I wear come Friday??? The high temp is only 49degrees! I'm a bit excited actually! Bring on the coats (now, which one to wear?)!!!!

A-Hunka Hunka BIRTHDAY Love!

Finally I've returned to my blog world.  All the friends and family have gone back to their respective portions of the country and I'm left with my birthday memories.....

It's safe to say,

all my birthday dreams came true

I had the best night of my life!  It was more than I ever expected it would be.

Take it from me, spending your birthday with the KING, it doesn't get better than that! 

On my special day, I wanted to channel Elvis a little bit myself.

I chose a dress I designed for my company, so perfect that the cape is incorporated.

The Birthday Girl's Wearing:

*Ivory metallic jacquard chiffon dress-Alberto Makali

*Black opaque tights-H.U.E

*Black leather peep-toe booties-Steve Madden

*Black patent-leather vintage purse-Thrift Store

Looking back on last Saturday, it almost brings a tear to my eye (trust me, I am not a crier, so this is rare) to think of all the friends and family that actually came out, even travelled half way across the country.   I never imagined I'd have such a turn-out; it was crazy fun, totally insane, and a rowdy good time!

So with a drink in my hand, a silk scarf around my neck, and whispers of sweet-nothings from the KING.......

I can gladly say, "This is one for the memory books!"

Thank you everyone, you made my night the

BEST BIRTHDAY EVER!

And thank you STINGRAY, you are the most amazing Elvis Impersonator I've ever seen (and I've seen a few in my day).

Ummm Stingray,--are you looking for a "Priscilla"?

(side note: it is never too early to start planning your 30th birthday party!  I started when I was 28!  And look how it turned out....)

Check it

-Alberto Makali, Evening Gown

-I have to head out to Barnes and Noble or some magazine/newstand today and buy this.

Heather Graham was shot for this editorial in Malibu Magazine....too bad you can't see the dress she's wearing-it's one of my pieces of work that I "slaved" over Mon-Fri, 9-6pm.  

Only kidding, I actually heart my job big time!

It makes Scents

Today's Outfit:

*Multi-color jersey print minidress-Alberto Makali

*Silver "fancy" shoes-Target

Is anyone else ever curious about perfume, like what people choose to wear everyday?  Do you have a signature scent, or are you more like me?  I'm someone that owns a ba-jillion frangrance and everyday it's something different...I either grab one and spritz in a total frenzy, or I actually consider my outfit and mood and spray from there.  So no signature for me, the more the merrier.  I like to have choices.

Today I misted myself with Calvin Klein's Eternity Moment (xmas gift from dad).  I think it was a hurried moment, because this dress probably wanted something more fun, not so soft and light.

Sometimes, I opt for just a light spray or mist that matches whatever body wash I happen to be using at the time.  A.K.A. whatever I bought during the Bath and Body Works many semi-annual sales (ok, not so many considering the term "semi-annual" does not mean "many).  I usually like the sparkly sprays they have, I like to spritz it on my legs for a bit of glimmer.  Unfortuantely here, by the end of the day, my leg doesn't look like anything other than a tree-trunk, what's up with that?

But I do like my Target purchase, saw them back in March at the store, but as I've stated before, the Target in Brooklyn blows, so I went online.  I wore them in Vegas one time, then promptly forgot about them when I returned home and it wasn't so summery until now.  Peeking under my bed this morning they peered out at me between the dust bunnies they call company.  And yeah, I like them all over again.  

Off to bed....it's sleepytime!