Story and Photos by Samantha Thom
Being someone who loves fashion but doesn’t want to break the bank, I am constantly on the lookout for cheaper ways to look and feel fabulous. One of my favorite trends of this year has been studded, high-waisted denim shorts. However after browsing the web for the perfect pair, I found that companies charge sky-high prices for something that with a bit of sweat and concentration I could easily make on my own. For example, one of my favorite stores, Urban Outfitters, sells “Urban Renewal Destroyed Studded Shorts” for $79 online. I know many college students, myself included, who would cringe at that price. So I made the attempt to create my own DIY version, and really like how they turned out. It’s easy, affordable, and people won’t even be able to tell the difference!
Materials
- A pair of thrifted denim shorts with a long inseam (featured: Faded Glory, Goodwill, $3.99)
- 2-3 packs of studs (featured: silver, “nail head” studs, $1.29 per pack, Ben Franklin Crafts by Gateway Mall)
- Scissors
Directions
1. Start out by trying on your shorts, pulling the waistband up to your navel. Roll up the cuffs so that they are at a length you are comfortable with. Be sure to remember that after cutting them, they will begin to fray on their own after washing/wearing. You can always go shorter, but never longer!
2. Remove your cuffed shorts and lie them flat on a tabletop or chair, zipped and buttoned to ensure evenness.
3. Begin cutting along the top cuff you made on one side, keeping the shorts as flat on your chosen surface as possible and cutting through both the front and the back layers of the shorts. Cut all the way across to the inseam, and repeat with the other leg. If you think you might want them shorter, try them on first before cutting them again. High-waisted shorts typically look a lot longer off of the body than they actually are on.
4. Once you’re satisfied with the length, take one stud at a time and sit them on top of the denim to play with placement and designs. This is your chance to get creative! If you’re stumped for ideas, check out my design in the final pictures, or even Google search “studded denim shorts” for inspiration.
5. Once you figure out your game plan, take your first stud and push it through the denim so that all 4 prongs make it through to the other side.
6. Take your closed scissors and use them to flatten the prongs of the studs, securing them in place. Be sure to flatten them as best as possible to avoid any sharp bits poking you as you wear them.
7. Continue studding to your heart’s content! Stud around the front pockets, under them, on the back pockets and even on the legs themselves. Go for a minimal look with only a few, or edgier by using most or all of your studs. The look I created took 2 packages of studs, leaving me with 1 package left over for touch ups or adding on later if I choose.
8. Once finished, you will have a great staple piece that you can wear with practically anything this Spring and Summer. To style up, pair these beauties with a flowing blouse and heels or flats. Go casual by tossing on an oversized tee and some sandals or sneakers. The versatility is endless, so let your creative and crafty side shine through!
