Does this look familiar to you?

Hey, isn't that the same fabric that was on the apron I gave away last week?

Oh my goodness, it is the apron I gave away last week!

Aren't I so sneaky? 

The dress pictured above was one that never quite fit right. I always loved the idea of it because the fabric was so pretty, but as quickly as I would put it on, I would take it off; the shoulders were so huge! I think if I was taller it would fit great, but alas, I am finished growing (taller anyway). 

So, why not chop off those problem shoulders, and make it into something useful? 

Obviously, a little more restructuring was necessary than just cutting off the top. I also trimmed off and hemmed the sides, detached and reattached the sash, and fashioned a pocket out of the top of the dress. 

Overall, this was a very easy repurpose. You may not be able to duplicate this exact process (unless you not only happened to have bought this exact same dress at TJ Maxx in 2006, but you also hate the shoulders). However, you can use the concept of looking at something that is no longer useful, and reconstructing it to fit your needs. Happy cutting!