Let's Runaway to the Circus!

Each Halloween I like to do coordinating costumes with my husband.  We also decorate our van for trunk-or-treating to match the theme.  This year, I was inspired to do vintage circus after thrifting a heavily embroidered and sequined skirt.  As it turned out, the weather didn't permit trunk-or-treating, so the activities were moved indoors.  I have to admit it was easier decorating a classroom than running electrical cords and such to decorate the van!

I had fun collecting curtains, fringed trim, decorated tins, etc. for the circus theme.  I also found a music box clown that I modified to fit the theme.  I ordered a cymbal-clanging monkey from Amazon.  After printing out letters and different flourishes, I made a sign using foam core board.  The white globe lights around the perimeter operated in random motion and added to the fun.  We also made a "Wheel of Fortune" from a bicycle wheel (not shown).  The kids had fun spinning the wheel and then choosing a prize from the appropriate container.  I also printed several vintage circus posters and hung them around the room.  I found some free calliope music on the internet and had it playing for the evening.

So here's a few more details of the costumes...

Refashion Runway: The Velvet Challenge

The first week of Refashion Runway gave all of us the chance to work with velvet, or velvet-like fabrics.  It was great to see what each contestant came up with!  Make sure you head over to The Renegade Seamstress to enjoy all of the creativity and to vote for your favorite!

I started with a strapless velvet dress, a sequined top, and a collar left over from a previous refashion.

Sequins, stripes, and zippers....a few of my favorite things!

Several months ago I picked up a sequined t-shirt for a couple of bucks.  I always knew that I would make a skirt from it.  Although in all honesty, I don't have a lot of places to where such a glimmering skirt.  But, last weekend's white elephant Christmas party presented just the right opportunity!

Using the front of the t-shirt, I used all of the fabric I could to cut a rectangle.  I retained the stretchy lining and cut it into a matching rectangle as well.  I hemmed both along the bottom edge.  The front of the t-shirt wasn't big enough to wrap all the way around my body as you can see below.  I pinned it on my dress form to give me an idea of the size of inset I would need.

I cut a triangular inset from the back of the t-shirt, positioning the neck zipper at the hem of my skirt.

After stitching the inset in place, I cut a waistband from some stretch lycra, folded it over, and attached it to the top of the skirt.  Pretty easy!

  

I wore it that night with a black sweater, necklace, and black suede booties.  Now I just need more occasions to wear it!

I like to link to these great parties!