When a dress doesn't fit anymore, simply cut off the top!

This used to be a dress of which the top didn't fit anymore. Cut off the top of an ill-fitting dress and sew on a strip of fabric or elastic band at the top of the skirt part, creating a waist band.

The bag is a vintage patent leather shoulder bag. When it started to wear out around the edges, I updated it somewhat with nail polish to prevent further wear.

The ornament on the bag is a recycled belt buckle.