Graduation dress complete

Okay, I have to agree with my classmates now, adding a little bling really completes a garment. I added on this rhinestone applique that my girlfriends/coworkers helped me pick out at work. I think it looks stunning. I am just so excited to graduate. I am so proud of myself.

As Tia would say, bedazzle it girl!

So I decided to listen to Tia today and get some finishing details for my graduation dress. I bought this beautiful rhinestone applique to put on the front. I have this placed on some red fabric to visualize it, but it is going on the front of my black silk dress where the velvet trim is located. Doesn't it just pop? I think my girlfriend is going to be proud.

Then, to add a nice elegant look to my hair, I bought this bow/clip on clearance. I have wanted this since it came into the store months ago. I love our bridal notions.

I am truly excited for graduation. I feel so daggone proud of myself and all of my accomplishments this year.

Graduation dress alterations

So, I think I mentioned that I bought my graduation dress at a thrift store for $3.93. It is 100% silk, and I love it. Well, I had to make a couple of darts in the back, take up the hems of the silk outer layer with a rolled hem and the polyester chiffon lining with a narrow hem. Since I had approximately 5+ inches of leftover width in silk and chiffon, I decided to use it to make a nice scarf accented with a velvet trim. I love not wasting beautiful fabric. Every alteration allows for scraps to be made into something new.

I love upcycling!

Graduation is acoming!

I can't believe I am 2 weeks away from graduation. I am so stoked. My family is coming down to see me, and I can't wait. I have the cap and gown, my technical honor society tassel and the tickets. Today, I even altered a silk BR dress I found in a thrift store for $3.93 for the event!

Back to important catch-up items. First fashion show at school, a success! I loved being onstage with my hubby. He is such a great sport and an even better hubby. Okay, I went to Skills and won silver. You probably saw that post with me sitting in the audience with my medal. I'm such a dork. Then, we had our Fashion Square mall fashion show. Oh, it was absolutely the most exhilarating thing I have done in years. I felt so creative in getting my garments completed. I mean, I just felt like a million bucks. Look at the footage here, thanks to my girlfriend Julie. (FYI, she has the cutest and most well-behaved baby ever. I pray when we have a little nugget, he is that awesome!)
 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E47QALWD3LQ&feature=youtu.be

We had students from Westside Tech come and do our hair and make-up. They were wonderful.

At Fashion Square, we got to set up Designer rooms. Here is my room!

That was cool to have my own area. The whole fashion show experience was a ton of work, but totally worth it. I am just so proud of myself. I haven't been able to say that for years.

Next was my big induction into the Technical Honor Society. WHEWWWWHOOOOO!

My parents would be so proud!

Then, it culminated with my BIG 35th BIRTHDAY!

My girlfriend Toye let me borrow her birthday hat. I felt so cool wearing that all day at school and then at work. Life is truly blessing me right now.

This past year has truly changed my life for the better. You know you think your life is headed one way, and then you go the complete opposite way. I am so glad I went down the road less traveled. It is going to add years to my life and happiness.

Back from Skills, on my way to Fashion Square Mall!!

Okay, let me just say this, I was hesitant to go to the state Skills competition. I didn't know if it would appeal to an older crowd. I am happy to say that I was pleasantly surprised. It was well planned. The events were organized to the T. My competitors in my division were extremely creative. It was a wonderful challenge for me, and....

That's right. I won the silver medal. Let me just say there were tough competitors. The gentleman who won, did an awesome presentation of hair and fashion. The very nice lady who placed bronze did a CPR demonstration. I feel proud to be among these winners. Next time though, maybe I won't talk so much and go over the time limit! Of course if anyone knows me, I am sure they wouldn't be shocked to know that I couldn't be quiet!!!

Now, I am off to Fashion Square mall for our fashion show this evening. I couldn't be more excited. I mean, life is good. Hectic, but good.