Mission Cute Outfit- Cheap : Mission Complete!

So, I admit I am a bit addicted to having my kids look cute. I wasn't always this into it. In fact, I vividly remember when I began going into department stores with the intent to purchase NEW clothing for Elliana, who was then 2.

Up until that point, 99% of her clothes were hand-me-downs, garage sale purchases or gifts from friends and family. With only one income, I was grateful that we never needed to purchase new clothes as they were expensive, and worn for such a short time.

Shortly after Elliana turned 2, the possibility entered our world of not being able to have additional children, and something switched inside of me.....I was missing out on an opportunity to dress my kids the way I wanted them...not they way other parents had wanted their kids as Elli frequently wore their old clothes. I walked into Gymboree, the store I had only window shopped until that point, and dropped $30 with NO guilt attached (if you know me at all, you would know that ALONE is a BIG DEAL!).

Fast forward a few years and we were obviously blessed with another little girl to raise. I still like a good bargain or garage sale and will always take hand me downs too, but I have learned to appreciate the chance to purchase something new for my own kiddos.

I walked into Gymboree a few weeks ago and fell in LOVE with this yellow butterfly shirt. I don't know why, but I instantly envisioned her wearing it to the annual Butterfly Show. The shirt was $20 but with coupons and sales, I was able to score it for $4. Just in my price range!

Well, to match the shirt was a super cute skirt....that was not on sale. In fact, it was rocking a $30 price tag. And, I just can't do that.

Super cute, but expensive skirt! 

So, I ran to the fabric store, ransacked my scrap stash and started feverishly working on a patchwork skirt to match. I think I spent a total of $6 in fabric for the skirt and have enough left over to make a matching one for Maya too. I consider that a good use of resources!! 

I had lots of little helpers on my sewing table and on my lap, so I admit the majority of the work was done once the kiddos were in bed. BUT, I do love their excitement for helping and learning the art of making clothes. Even though, I myself, am still learning.

After a week or so, the skirt was complete! In all honesty, I finished hemming the skirt the morning of the butterfly show as I was cutting my deadline close! But, it was all worth as I sure did have a happy little girl on my hands! 

Final hem added and ready to leave! 

I am so happy with how it turned out and am beyond grateful that Elliana is as excited about me making something as I am!

The skirt is very full and twirly which as so cute as she jumped and twirled in delight after her first butterfly! 

Her first butterfly encounter of the day!

If you look closely, a butterfly has landed on her skirt :)