Pareo Changes Things

Several years ago, I bought this beautiful pareo in South Africa, but I haven't done much with it. I usually just tie it around my waist as a beach cover up, but I knew there had to be more possibilities :) It's been so hot lately, and being one who doesn't like to sweat (unless I am dancing), I thought to appropriate it better since it's so nice and breezy.

Indeed, I now have myself a new dress! Here it is above, modeled by the lovely DeeDee the Dress Form.

To accomplish this, wrap the pareo around yourself (under your arms, not over the shoulders) from behind. Take the top edges of the fabric and wrap them around your neck as you would a halter. Tie the remaining fabric behind your neck, knotting it securely (don't skip this step, seriously!). To further secure the pareo, pin it at the front where cloth overlaps before going behind your neck. Place the safety pin so that the pin sits inside the dress and doesn't show. Or if you like, use a pretty brooch and pin it on the outside.

I like to wrap the whole thing with a belt, but this all depends on your style and body shape. I am pretty curvy, so the dress bunches in the middle. But if it hangs on you in a flattering manner, you probably don't need a belt.

At last, accessorize with a fun bag. Only, put it on your shoulder and not your neck. Sorry, Deeds doesn't have arms, so I had to improvise. :)