aight so I figured this thread would be better than the halloween thread.
I recently picked up a dress from a thrift store for a witch outfit, the dress is pretty much exactly what I need but it's too small for my wide shoulders and ribcage.
The dress is a chiffon type, kind of drapey dress with a defined natural waist, using a ribbon of some sort to separate the top and skirt. There's a zipper in the side of the dress, from the hip and up to under the armpit. It is v-necked and sleeveless.
I can get it on without issues, and the zipper zips up fine to my waist, but my ribcage is too wide to fit the rest. I was considering whether I could modify it? So far I've considered:
>Creating a corset style lacing in the back
Pros: no hassling with the zipper, does not have to be very visible, easy place to add a modification.
Cons: probably not enough skirt to make a rectangular panel, not sure how much it will better the fit, hard to tie on my own, might make the rest sit weird.
>Undoing the sides and fill them out, either corset style or just plain fabric panels
Pros: will probably give a more accurate fit, possibly easier to put on on my own
Cons: will most likely necessitate me moving the zipper to the back, if not removing it completely, more visible if fuckups happen, more difficult to work with.
A third option is to just use the skirt portion of the dress, but then I'll have to cut through and remake the zipper...
Any ideas? I've made minor alterations before and can sew with confidence, but this type of thing is a first to me.