DIY Body Chain (Two Versions)

I have been lusting after body chains FOREVER! Well, not forever, but since they have made a comeback.  Last summer, I went on a mad dash to every affordable accessory store in the Eaton Centre on the hunt for a body chain. I had a really hard time finding one!

I ended up finding and buying one out of desperation. I've never worn it. It's kind of over embellished and doesn't fit properly. I can alter it but it's still not exactly what I was looking for. So....while packing for my last vacation, in my typical fashion, I decided I would make one! I'll be honest, I don't know much about jewelry making, but I love a challenge. It turns out that it wasn't even really challenging!

This ended up being one my easiest DIYs I have done to date and it had a HUGE payoff. I've worn it many times since, in many ways. I've worn it over a bathing suit, over a cropped tee and high waisted pants, with a simple dress to a brunch and I will continue to wear it with different outfits.

Thrift Store Dress Makeover

The other day, I finally got the chance to visit a thrift store downtown called Black Market. I had been wanting to go for a while so since I was in the area visiting a friend, I jumped on the opportunity to pop in. By the time I got there, I had only about 30 minutes before the store closed. I knew I would have to endure the eye rolls and piercing stares from the staff because I waltzed in so late. In my defense, they close at 7 which is earlier than I expected. Also, I was really quick and I actually bought 2 of the items that I tried on. And I was out right when it was closing time.

One of the things I picked up was this ridiculous plaid dress. It's kind of like a house dress you would expect your grandma to wear. I had the perfect makeover in mind so I bought it!

Before & After

My inspiration was a plaid dress that I saw a girl wearing at the CNE during the summer. It looked like a high-low hem but I am pretty sure that she was wearing this dress from Forever 21.  It was super cute in person. My made over dress is basically nothing like this one from Forever 21 but I guess you could say it was my jumping off point.