by Italia Marr
Two things come to mind when I think of the ideal summer outfit: being comfortable and looking cute. Classic cut-off jean shorts are an essential summer staple. Not only are they cute and comfortable, they’re versatile. And you can (and should!) make them yourself.
The newest trend in cut-offs from the fashion blogs this season has been Embellishment. Kind of a festival thing in summers past, recently designers like Christopher Kane, Levi’s and DSquared got huge press when celebs wore their embellished cutoffs on the circuit, and DIY options and tutorials have popped up everywhere.
Obviously, you start with the cut offs. In order to make the perfect pair of cute cut-off shorts, here’s what you’ll need: one pair of old jeans, one pair of shorts that fit you well (as a template for your new pair), a ruler, scissors, tailor’s chalk (found at any craft store), and straight pins. A good photo tutorial can be found here on refinery29.com.
Step 1: Place your already worn pair of shorts that fit you well over the pair of old jeans. TIP: Make sure to align the crotches of both pants.
Step 2: Using straight pins, pin both inseams together securely.
Step 3: Align the ruler with the hem of the old shorts and mark a dotted chalk line along the ruler. TIP: for a more flattering cut angle the ruler so the line is a little longer at the inseam.
Step 4: Cut at least half an inch below the dotted line, because the length will shrink with fraying and washing. More if you want to cuff them up.
Step 5: Once you’ve finished cutting along the line, throw your cut-offs in the washer and drier. As simple as that. Now you are summertime ready with a cute pair of cut-offs.
Want to take the next step in designing your own cut-offs? Try adding a little pizazz to them: attach studs, sew on lace, add pom-pom trim, or even cover one side in a fun fabric! Fashion powerhouses like Free People and DSquared make trendy cut-offs by adding stylish twists to classic jean shorts. Take a look at their cut-off innovation for your DIY inspiration! Or pay a visit to the online sewing mecca, m&jtrimming.com.
