Spring is finally here, and you know what that means? Spring cleaning. Not your initial response? That’s okay, I’ve got something that will make you want to! Sure, a new season calls for new goodies – such manifestations of brand spankin’ new “it” items-slash-“must haves” have been dictated by fashion weeks and magazines, or the more likely scenario, super influential fashion bloggers during the past few months. Here’s a quick Spring 2012 trend recap in case you missed it: pastels, brights, colorblocks, peplums, prints on everything, and florals (“For spring? Groundbreaking.”*).
Now, while some are still weaning themselves off of their winter wardrobes, others are probably scratching their heads, thinking of what the heck to do with their massive piles of cold weather essentials. Ahh, the age-old question: How to make way for the new? Then, there are others who can’t part with their stuff and without proper supervision, their lives can easily turn into an episode of “Hoarders”. Like most things, there needs to be a balance. Purchasing an entirely new wardrobe each season is obviously expensive (unless you’re one of the three people who won the $640M lottery, then by all means, stimulate the economy please and thank you). And if you’re participating in the 15/30: The Capsule Wardrobe Project, then you know shopping is off limits. So here’s another question: How to make something look new again?
Do-it-yourself. I mean, have you seen Heather’s DIY peplum as well as Sylvia’s & Sam’s DIY detachable peplum? Easy, peasy! (I’ve been improvising by using a skirt as a peplum, but more on that on another post.)
Sometimes, all you really need is a bit of an update, a refresher – not an overhaul. Nothing can change a look instantly better than accessories. There’s a reason why they’re called statement jewelry/bags/shoes. I’ve been obsessed with Louis Vuitton’s mint cap toe mules since they stepped off the dreamy merry-go-round in Paris six months ago. If I won the jackpot, I’d have all the colors they’re available in. Since I didn’t become a multi-millionaire, I resorted to prettying up an old pair of black patent pumps instead. The result? A fun DIY that I’ve been so excited to share with all of you!
DIY Cap Toe Pumps
Items needed:
- a pair of shoes (preferably ones that are inexpensive or old)
- spray paint (color of your choosing)
- painter’s tape
- nail polish, acetone or nail polish remover
- newspapers, plastic bags
- gloves, a mask (both should be available at local drugstores or hardware stores)
- and lots of patience!
Note: Since I chose patent leather pumps, I used spray paint made specifically for vinyl surfaces. Different leathers need different types of spray paint. Test the spray paint in a small area (where it won’t be noticeable) to see how the paint will react to the leather surface.
How:
1. Set up your spray painting area in a well-ventilated space and cover the floor with the newspapers. Remember to wear gloves to avoid contact with the paint. Also, wear a mask to protect yourself from inhaling the fumes.
2. Make sure the shoes are clean to avoid bumps and bubbling when spray painting.
3. Place the painter’s tape where you’d like the cap toe to end (as shown in the photo). Make sure that the tape is completely flat and free of air pockets. This will keep paint from seeping into unwanted areas.
4. Tape the soles under the cap toe area to avoid getting potential paint spills. Cover the rest of the shoe with a plastic bag starting from the end of the cap toe. Wrap the bag around the entire shoe.
5. Follow the directions written on the spray paint can regarding its proper use. Test the spray paint in a small area (where it won’t be noticeable) to see how the paint will react to the leather surface.
6. Start spraying by using light strokes until the cap toe is completely covered. Avoid concentrating the spray in one area or spraying it for too long – this will cause the paint to run and create drip marks.
7. Let it dry. After it finished drying, check to see if the coverage was enough. Spray paint again if needed.
8. For an ombre effect, do quick, light sprays from the side. Effect shown in photo. (The plastic bag needs to be removed for this.)
9. Once the paint completely dries, carefully peel off the tape. Use the acetone or nail polish remover to take off any excess paint or to clean it up a bit. You can also use the same shade of nail polish as the spray paint (or as close as possible) to correct any areas that were missed.
10. Voila! Cap toe pumps ready to take on Spring 2012. Changed your mind about the color? Simply spray over the existing cap toe area!
So clean out your closets, dust off those old shoes, and give them some love!
(*Miranda Priestly quote from The Devil Wears Prada.)
For questions or to share your DIY Cap Toes, tweet to @everybodyisugly
By Monique
Images by Monique, except first via Fashionologie
