Looking for ways to make your denim a little more you? Here are a few ways you can do just that. Today, we’re teaching you how to westernize your denim with our step-by-step guide on how you can add fringe, rhinestones and studs or rivets to your favorite denim pieces.
Meet Mallory Kerman
Before we get to it, let's meet Mallory Kerman, our Lead Tailor and DIY guide to learn a little bit more about DIY-ing, the tailoring process and our Levi’s® Tailor Shop (for the DIYs you dream about, but don’t know how to attempt).
Q: How did you start your journey into tailoring?
Kerman: I started sewing when I was really young. And then I went to school for fashion and textiles with a concentration in design and eventually got to where I am today. I’ve been at Levi’s® for five years.
Q: Where do you get design inspiration from?
Kerman: Social media and seeing what other people are doing is really inspiring because people have such different aesthetics and preferences. So experimenting with other styles and trends is really cool.
WE CAN ALTER JEANS TO SKIRTS, DO PATCHWORK OR REPAIRS AND ALSO ADD EMBROIDERY...
Q: What’s your favorite part about working at Levi’s® Tailor Shop?
Kerman: We do alterations, hemming and we can also change the leg shape and add panels to make them flare or wide-leg jeans. I love bringing people’s visions to life! Like altering jeans to skirts, doing cool patchwork pieces or repairs and also adding embroidery—which can be a simple freehand monogram or something crazy like a dog portrait.
Q: What trends have you been seeing lately at the Tailor Shop?
Kerman: We’ve noticed a lot of people asking for fringe, rhinestones and rivets—pretty much anything that’s related to the coastal cowboy aesthetic that’s trending right now.
Q: For the DIY lovers, can you show us how to do these customizations at home?
Kerman: I’d love to!
*Note: We understand that every crafter is at a different skill level, and so we’ve organized our DIYs from easiest to most difficult!
HOW TO ADD RHINESTONES
Let’s talk about that sparkle. Rhinestones instantly transform your typical denim into one-of-a-kind pieces. Whether it’s a subtle sprinkle or an all-over design, these gems add a touch of playful and fun energy that instantly elevates your look. Here's how you can add rhinestones to your favorite Levi's like a pro:
What you’ll need:
Rhinestones
Rhinestone adhesive
Step 1
Lay your garment flat on a surface and pour your rhinestones into a dish to make them easier to grab.
Step 2
Plan out where you want to add your rhinestones. We recommend starting at both ends and the middle, before filling out what’s in between.
Step 3
Once you’re happy with the placement, you can start gluing the gems down. You don’t need a lot of glue, but it’s helpful to have a paper towel in case you add too much! Once all the rhinestones are glued, allow them to sit for 24 hours.
And you know what? Rhinestones are surprisingly versatile. If you choose to add rhinestones to a Western Shirt like we did, try pairing it with a skirt and a tank top for a more elevated look. Or dress it down with bootcut jeans and sneakers.
HOW TO ADD STUDS/RIVETS
Another way to add a bit of western detail to your look? Studs and rivets. Adding studs or rivets to your denim instantly upgrades your piece, adding a unique flair to everyday jeans and jackets. Studded denim combines the rugged look of classic denim with the bold edge of metal accents, creating pieces that are both timeless and modern. (And they’re easier to work with than you think.)
What you’ll need:
Rivets or studs
A stencil of the shape you’d like to design
Chalk
Hand/table press or hammer (Note: If you use studs with screw-on backs or prongs, you won’t need this)
Step 1
Place your piece flat on a surface and then add your shape stencil where you’d like and trace it with chalk.
Step 2
Then lay out your rivets or studs along the chalk outline to make sure you’re happy with how it looks. Once you have your placement, use a pen to mark under each rivet or stud.
Step 3
With a table press, install your rivets or studs. Depending on how many embellishments you have, this process might be long, so take your time.
Step 4
Remove the chalk outline with an iron or steamer.
These metal embellishments are an effortless way to add a bit of western edge to any outfit. And like rhinestones, rivets and studs are versatile accents you can wear with just about anything. If you choose to decorate a pair of denim shorts, you can try pairing them with a basic T-Shirt and a Trucker Jacket for a look that’s going to highlight your DIY.
HOW TO ADD FRINGE
So you want to add some movement to your look—and we don’t blame you. Fringe instantly elevates any outfit with its western appeal. Whether it’s a fringe on a denim jacket, skirt or jeans, this playful detail adds a touch of carefree elegance and are perfect for music festivals, casual outings or a night out. Ready to learn how to add fringe to your favorite clothing pieces?
What you’ll need:
A sewing machine
A seam ripper
Scissors
Fabric for fringe
Step 1
Lay your piece flat and decide where you want to put the fringe. Use a seam ripper to remove the stitching.
Step 2
Next, you’ll want to measure out the length of fringe you’ll need. (We recommend leaving a little bit extra… just in case.) If the fringe comes with a wide band, feel free to trim it to the width you need to fit it into the seam.
Step 3
You’ll want to tuck the end of the fringe into the seam and secure it with a pin. Now it’s time to sew. Follow the seam and sandwich the fringe in as you go. Make sure you take your time and carefully place the fringe.
Step 4
If you have any extra fringe at the end, cut it and tuck the end into the seam.
Let your newly decorated denim be the focal point of your outfits by pairing it with simple basics like a
classic logo T-shirt. If you chose to add fringe to a denim vest like we did, try pairing it with denim shorts for a denim-on-denim style. We also love adding in other textures, like leather or soft knits, to create more depth and layers.
There you have it. Three easy ways to customize your denim and add even more western style to your look. DIYs are an easy at-home way to transform your favorite Levi’s, get creative and have a bit of fun with new trends. And if you’re not into crafting, you can always visit a Levi’s Tailor Shop and let the pros help with your alterations and customization needs.
Happy crafting!
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