How to Glam Up a Robe

Opt to have your robe embroidered for extra glam.

Many of us spend a lot of time in our robes; we put them on after a shower, when we wake up and even take them to the spa or gym to use after a workout. Glam up your robe so it becomes a fashionable part of your ensemble rather than looking ratty and plain. Shop for items to decorate your robe or use what you have around the house.

Things You'll Need

• Shiny cloth belt
• Iron-on appliques
• Shimmery ribbon
• Scissors
• Needle and thread

Instructions

1. Change the belt or sash on your robe for a more glamorous version. Choose a belt that ties and is made of comfortable cloth that is sparkly or shiny. A thicker belt will attract more attention and make the waist of the robe look more fitted.

2. Iron appliques onto your robe that match the belt, including a large design centered in the middle of the back of the robe, between your shoulder blades. Place the iron-on applique or "transfer" right-side-down on your robe. Smooth out any wrinkles and cover with a thin towel or piece of paper so you don't melt the applique. Iron on a low setting and increase the heat as necessary. Peel off the applique backing.

3. Cut small slits in the hem that run up and down and space them every 2 inches. Weave shiny ribbon that matches the belt and applique through the bottom hem of the robe and even through the collar and sleeve cuffs. Tie the ribbon into a bow at the end, or sew the ribbon end into the fabric with a needle and thread.

4. Embroider your initials or a design onto the robe with an embroidery hoop, needle and thread or follow a pattern with your sewing machine. Place the embroidery hoop on the part of the robe you want to embroider. Place a transfer pattern or embroidery image on the hoop, then follow the lines with your needle and thread. Tie off the end of the thread and pull away the hoop and transfer pattern to find your embroidery. Alternatively, take your robe to a seamstress.

Tips & Warnings

• Once you apply applique and ribbon, the robe will require gentle laundering.

Resources

• Thread Banger; Applying Appliques and Iron On Transfers, Thread Heads; Feb. 2008
• Sublime Stitching; Hand Embroidery Basics; Jenny Hart