Let’s get things straight. This blog is not a tutorial, but a lazy hazy swipe through inspiration post how to refashion a men’s button down shirt. Maybe you’ll never touch a sewing machine in your life, but you simply want to dream about the endless possibilities thrift flips offer, without doing the actual (hard) work.
![](https://www.whatwonderwomenwear.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/20210707_135406-768x1024.jpg)
I can’t blame you for this attitude. Giving clothes a make-over is hard work if you want to do it properly. The unpicking of stitches alone can take an hour. But… if you succeed, the result is incredibly satisfying.
![](https://www.whatwonderwomenwear.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/20210707_095753-768x1024.jpg)
This thrift flip is definitely one of my success stories. First of all, I haven’t burnt any parts of the blouse with my iron. That’s huge progress compared to my previous make over sewing adventures.
![](https://www.whatwonderwomenwear.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/20210707_122704-768x1024.jpg)
Second: during this project I experienced more control because my sewing skills have improved. Cutting of the bottom of the shirt and turning this fabric into ruffles, was something I couldn’t have done so easily a few months ago. Taking in the back and shoulders of the shirt was the hardest part, but luckily my sewing teacher gave me the right instructions.
![](https://www.whatwonderwomenwear.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/20210707_135414-768x1024.jpg)
And third and most importantly: I feel truly eager wearing this blouse. This hasn’t always been the case with my refashion projects.
![](https://www.whatwonderwomenwear.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/20210707_135441-768x1024.jpg)
I used a pattern I saw in Fibre Mood as inspiration for this make over. It makes it easier for me to know what I’m working to.
I changed my mind about the sleeves though. But hey, that’s the beauty of sewing. You can alter everything according to your taste.
![](https://www.whatwonderwomenwear.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/20210707_134651-768x1024.jpg)
What do you think of this make over from Ralph Lauren to Ralph Rachel? Love it, or would you have done something else? Let me know!