18 Feb DIY: SUEDE HARNESS
Many of the looks on the Spring 2013 runways were adorned with the biggest accessory of the season, harnesses. From Jason Wu’s ultra skinny and simple harnesses to the over the top, worn over everything harnesses at BCBG Max Azria, they were in abundance. I am always in the market for an of the moment accessory and this one was the perfect DIY opportunity.
Gather your tools and supplies. I chose to use 3/8″ wide suede trim to construct my harness, but leather or faux leather works as well. You can go as wide as you want, but the wider the trim the less it forms to your body, so I would suggest keeping the width at 3/4″ maximum. The jump rings should be slightly larger in diameter than your trim, and the color doesn’t matter too much because the rings will be mostly covered. The styling tape is for deciding what shape you want for your harness.
Next, pull images of harness or dresses with similar harness shapes to help you decide on a design. (all inspiration images via my pinterest)
If you have a dress form, it helps to tape your style lines onto the form to see if you like it. You can also use the suede or leather trim to wrap it around your own body for reference. The most important measurement is from your high point shoulder (right next to your neck, at your shoulder) to the waist position you would like your harness to sit at. I chose my natural waist which was 15″ below my high point shoulder.
It’s best to start working from the center front to the shoulders then the back and lastly the waist. Before attaching your trim to the ring, cut the ends to form a point so when they are bent back, you won’t be able to see them.
Attach one piece of suede trim to the ring at a time, making sure your stitches are always the same distance from the ring. I stitched mine down about 1/2″ away from the ring.
After working with my harness, I decided to put a buckle on both sides at the waist so when adjusted, the harness would stay balanced.
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