by Cathi Morse

Created on: December 04, 2008   Last Updated: December 10, 2008

With some creativity and thread, you can create a sensational prom dress that will have everyone asking you where you found it. Making your own prom dress guarantees that no one else will be in the same dress.

A simple approach would be to hit the thrift shops and flea markets. Finding an old evening gown or old prom dress in your size is your goal. It also needs to be something not too damaged and doesn't require much repair, like needing new fasteners. You will simply be redoing it in a newer, current style. For example, a floor-length a-line gown can be shortened into a mini balloon dress. Make sure to pick up some tulle to lightly fluff the balloon skirt, but not too much. Don't want the skirt to keep everyone at a distance. Unless you are an experienced sewer, you will need help to make the balloon bottom. However, you could also just make it a mini by cutting to the desired length and hemming the bottom. Save the cut off skirt and make a wrap with it, or cut out material to make a wide headband.

If the dress you found has sleeves that you do not like, cut them off. Just make sure that you can sew the ravelled ends and that the dress will still stay up, don't want it to fall in the middle of a special dance! You can always add straps from the material saved from cutting off the skirt.

Now if the dress you found is too plain and you want to add some sparkle, head to your local craft store. Pick up some sequins and beads. An easy way to sew sequins onto the dress is to hold the sequin to the fabric, put a bead on your threaded needle and sew the bead down into the middle of the sequin. Have fun with the colors; have the beads and sequins match or coordinate. Just make sure that they don't clash with the color of your dress.

What do you think? By following these few simple tips, you can make over an inexpensive, out of style dress into something that everyone will be complimenting. Make your own prom dress and see.

Learn more about this author, Cathi Morse.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.