HOT: Alterations Now, Level 1, 234 Collins St, Melbourne

My friend J?s mum is a couturier. So going op-shopping with J is a frustrating experience ? she?ll pick up an ugly $10 drop-waisted peach coloured curtain-fabric dress and say airily ?Oh, I?ll just get mum to alter it?.  The next thing you know she?s decked out in a jealousy-inducing one-of-a-kind vintage outfit.

I?m not so lucky, so I rely on the friendly and attentive staff at Alterations Now to turn my op-shop purchases into fabulous chic. Their latest assignment – transforming a Ted Baker LBD picked up at the MTC Garage Sale and transforming it into an Audrey Hepburn worthy cocktail dress.  For my Breakfast at Tiffany?s moment, $65.

PS The red shoes are by Georgina Goodman which I bought heavily discounted at the Scanlan & Theodore clearance store.