In college, I started collecting my “Mr. Rogers sweaters,” which were basically just polyester cardigans from the thrift store. They came in all different colors and rarely cost more than six or seven dollars, so I had a pretty expansive collection. I personalized each sweater by replacing the buttons with ones you wouldn’t expect to see on that kind of sweater. The mint green sweater got Deco-looking square black buttons; the pink sweater got red heart-shaped buttons, edged in white; and for the deliciously gaudy mustard yellow sweater, I chose rhinestone buttons. After these simple button changes, all association with Mr. Rogers was lost and these sweaters fit perfectly into my wardrobe which was, at the time, a curious combination of Vintage, Raver, and Riot Grrl looks.
For those of you who have survived to date without knowing how to thread a needle and you don’t want to learn now, don’t fret. A good fabric glue is an essential cheat tool. Magna-Tac 809 is my favorite—just don’t use it on delicate fabrics or anything that must be dry-cleaned. Also, I’ve embraced the beauty of a raw, unfinished hem. Try it—the style grows on you quickly especially once you remind yourself that designers like Jean-Paul Gaultier and Vivienne Westwood have made millions on the unfinished look. It doesn’t work with everything, but there are times when a jagged hem is exactly what your ensemble needs to elevate the overall look to fierce.
So next time you find yourself walking away from a piece of fashion history, stop yourself. Consider your options. Consider its options. You could instead be walking away with fashion history in the making.
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