One of the coolest things about DIY-ing clothes is the ability it allows you to create your own unique, one of a kind items. No more the average thrifted or vintage item (or some random hand-me-down from you’re half brother’s cousin twice removed), but rather a unique, one of a kind item, adding a certain je ne sais quoi to every outfit. I find that it becomes easier and easier to tell when people have simply gone to the store and purchased their outfit straight from the store window display (in doing so ensuring the approval of their peers, while simultaneously suppressing their own personal style). Personally when I’m modifying my own clothes, from cropping sweaters to reconstructing entire pieces, it makes me feel capable and self confident both during the creation and wearing of the item. The feeling is comparable to solving a difficult math word problem or cooking something really delicious; yeah, I tackled that challenge and came out the winner!
In this post I’m going to be showing you how to bleach your own clothing at home – and there is no cutting or sewing involved! It is super fast and easy to do, all you need is bleach, rubber gloves, rubber bands and some sort of black clothing. I love this method because I find that black sweatshirts or t-shirts will often fade/look worn fairly quickly, and that’s usually when I say goodbye. However, with bleaching the faded look becomes purposeful and contributes to the theme of the item, rather than take away from it. In the video I used a scrunching technique to get random bleached areas (almost like cow print, which I have been seeing more and more of this fall!), however you could use any tie dying technique you like.
The only thing I will warn is to use natural fabrics like cotton or cotton blends, rather than synthetics, for best results. I actually tried this method on a nylon/spandex dress, and the bleach did nothing! Also PLEASE be CAREFUL when attempting this… bleach is legit poison and can damage not only your clothes but your skin as well, so please work in a well ventilated area, wear gloves and protect your eyes.
Hope you enjoy!!
xx, alice
The Fashion Hiker 