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Writer's pictureMiaira Jennings

DIY 'The Nanny' Inspired Top: Thrifted Fabric and Essential Sewing Tools for an Easy Upcycle

Updated: Oct 30

If you’re a fan of The Nanny and love the bold fashion of Fran Fine, this DIY top is for you! I’ve had a specific top from The Nanny on my mood board for ages, and I finally found the perfect thrifted fabric to bring it to life. This project combines thrifting, upcycling, and some game-changing sewing tools that made the process a breeze.


diy the nanny black top fran - miaira jennings x madam sew

Materials

What you'll need:



Use code MIAIRA15 for 15% off MadamSew.com items!

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Step 1: Source Your Fabric


I found the perfect rosette fabric for this 90s-inspired look at one of my local thrift stores. Thrifting fabric is a great way to keep projects sustainable and budget-friendly! If you can't find any rosette or floral fabric, any textured dark fabric would work perfectly.




Step 2: Cut the Sleeves and Body

Start by cutting out the sleeves, leaving enough fabric to create the body of the top. Fran Fine’s look was often characterized by playful sleeves, so be sure to make them a bit wider for that slight puff effect.


Clip the pieces together to secure them. Madam Sew sewing clips are so convenient (and no poked skin like with pins!).




Step 3: Sew the Pieces Together


Once everything is clipped in place, it's time to sew! Since we're working with darker fabric, my Madam Sew sewing machine light strip came in super handy. This light strip is adjustable and is perfect for clearly seeing stitches even on the darkest fabrics.




Step 4: Add Elastic for Secure Fit


For the final step, create a casing around the edges of the top to insert elastic, ensuring it stays fitted and secure:

  • Create the channel: Fold and sew the fabric edges to make a small “tunnel” for the elastic.

  • Slip the elastic through: Using a safety pin, thread the elastic through the casing. Adjust the tightness to your preference and sew or tie the ends of the elastic together.




DIY 'The Nanny' Top Is Complete


This DIY The Nanny top is not only sustainable and budget-friendly but also a great way to incorporate 90s-inspired fashion into your wardrobe. Be sure to check your local thrift store for fabrics, and don’t forget to use my code MIAIRA15 at madamsew.com to get 15% off your purchase of sewing tools that make every project easier!



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