Cleaver Use of a Bodice

We got 2 of these dresses donated--Sisters, Jodi & Becky Yarrington, were bridesmaids in the same wedding.  Well, this style of skirt is genius for making a bustle.  That said, the bodice isn't ideal for the period, but could still be used....

So, they were flipped and will be used as the middle layer to the bustle!!

The stupid "shawls"--ie rectangular pieces of fabric that come with some of the dresses, are coming handy, as well.  They are making for perfect butt boys and tails!!

Now, the main part/front of the dress is a lavender bridesmaid dress that has many layers to the skirt--great for movement and dimension, but more needed to be added...

So, Elle added some beautiful beaded fringe to each layer, that will catch the light and be perfect!  

The bodice, already, had a simple beaded design, right below the bust, but more is and will be added to make this gown a show stopper.





















The red bodice, below, will also find new life as a to piece to a bustle.

Here is the piece, being attached to the actual bustle...