So last weekend I was scrolling through some old photos and boom, Mamma Mia popped into my head. Got that ABBA song stuck on repeat for hours. Thought: why not recreate those cheesy Greek island vibes? Grabbed my sketchbook and started doodling peasant blouses and floppy hats. Zero sewing skills though – total rookie mistake.
The Fabric Hunt Disaster
Hit up three fabric stores downtown. First place had linen but only puke-green color. Second spot clerk looked at my phone pics like I’d asked for dragon scales. Finally found decent white cotton at spot #3, except it was labeled “premium” – price tag almost made me choke. Bought two yards anyway plus cheap blue ribbon for accents.
Sewing Nightmare Mode
Dusted off my grandma’s sewing machine. Threaded it wrong three times. Broke two needles trying to make puff sleeves. Measured my shoulders backwards first try – sleeve holes ended up near my elbows. Had to seam rip everything while watching YouTube tutorials with greasy fingers from snacking.
Biggest fails:
- Cutting fabric too small cause I forgot seam allowance
- Bodice stitching looking like drunken caterpillar tracks
- Iron burning a brown spot near the hem (covered it with ribbon flower)
Accessory Chaos
Ransacked my closet for anything turquoise. Found beaded necklace from 2012 vacation but the clasp was busted. Glued it to some ribbon – instant choker. Cut up old jeans to make frayed denim bag. Worst idea? Tried crafting leather sandals from flip-flops and fake suede. Lasted exactly four steps before straps detached.
Ended up thrifting:
- Floppy straw hat ($3)
- Wooden bangles that don’t match ($1 each)
- Oversized sunglasses missing one temple tip
Final Hot Mess Result
Put everything on Sunday morning. Blouse fits weird under one arm, hat keeps sliding over my eyes, and those bangles clank like windchimes. But dang, that turquoise blue against white cotton? Chef’s kiss. Did photoshoot in backyard with lemon tree. Filtered pics sepia tone to hide the burned spot. Lesson? Mamma Mia magic needs more ouzo and less perfectionism.
Would I do it again? Hell no – my fingers still have needle pricks. But that denim bag’s actually kinda cute with regular outfits.
