I got this black blazer at Forever 21.

Since it was from F21 it lacked any details, but  I knew I could spruce it up.

I wanted to add some trip to the lapel and pockets. I chose dupioni silk because I didn’t want it too shiny. But you could use anything you prefer.

Sew it inside out then turn it inside out and press it so you have a nice flat piece with no exposed edges, about 1/2 in inch wide.

Begin pinning it on the inside of the lapel.

Do the same on the pockets.

Then just stitch it on. Try to just ‘stitch in the ditch’ of the preexisting topstitch.

I think it’s those subtle differences that make somethin much  nicer.

I love the black blazer!

I have LOTS of new tutorials I’m doing!

Stay tuned for them and for Friday Fall Fashion Puzzle tomorrow!

So I thought I’d do a clutch inspired by the collection.

Here’s how!

Start out with two pieces of jersey, like an old shirt or sweatpants or any other thick flexible material you have, each cut 17 x 27.

Lay them on top of one another.

For all the detailing, I used some leftover silk chiffon I had. You really could use anything, but I wanted a dressier look so I went for it! You’re gonna need  a lot!

Find the center of your clutch, where it will be folded on the bottom. You can mark it with a pen or pins. Begin sewing from down there. Make sure your jersey is doubled and you’re sewing through both layers.

What I started doing is one of row of heavy pleats.

With each row I alternated techniques. I would do ruffles, then more pleats, then heavy stitching over fabric, a few braids, some rosettes, etc… You want it to be random and full. Don’t skimp on the fabric or else it will look really homemade. I also didn’t go in straight lines, necessarily. I worked in different motions.

Don’t worry about making anything look symmetrical. I think there’s so  much beauty in the randomness. Do both sides of the jersey piece. When you’re done, you’ll have one large, flat piece that looks like, your won version, of this.

Fold it inside out, in half. Then sew the two side together.

Turn it right side out again.

Now for the liner. I used this fun peacock blue satin. Cut it the same size as your original piece.

Fold it in half and sew the sides toghether.

Insert it into your clutch. 

Get some of your extra fabric and make some bias tape.

Pin it all the way around the clutch, making sure that the outside and the liner are in the tape.  Stitch it closed.

Thanks to my sister, Ana for some great modeling!! If you do a clutch inspired by this tutorial, PLEASE go add it to the Flickr Group. I love being inspired by seeing what you do and I’m sure others do, too! Have a great day!

You’ll also notice I two lovely button choices!

So please feel free to grab one and show your love for Made By Lex!!

Next, here is another new creation I’ve done.It’s a giant dupioni silk bow. That just sounds funny. But that’s what it is

Here I have it on my sister, Clare, on a white T-shirt paired with a plaid skirt (not my own creation).

Now when I made this for myself I thought maybe it was a little overkill. But then I wore it out and, I’m not gonna lie, people raved. So I felt better confirmed in wearing it.

It will soon be up for sale in my shop, ready to buy with or without the shirt.

And, ooooohhh!!!! I’m DYING to show you all the new shirts I’m going to have for sale!! I’ve been working so hard on them, even hand dying them,and  making them each unique and one of a kind little pieces of art for your fashion pleasure.  Here’s a couple of the ones I did that are already sold, but you can get the idea.

Thanks for stopping by and seeing the new me!