I found a beautifully cut designer coat in my local charity shop, but it’s a little bit dated. How can I make it more modern? I’m not too great with a sewing machine.

Sarah, Leitrim

Well done on your savvy purchase Sarah! Charity shops are always good for a rummage, but sometimes a little tweak or update is necessary.

Buttons are an easy and cheap way to jazz up a classic coat and if you get bored, you can always change ‘em again.

Make like Gok Wan and check out your local haberdashery, most of these shops have a selection of buttons and sometimes they’ll even order in ones you like.

If you can’t find what you’re looking for in real world, go virtual.

Check out www.haberdashery.ie where you can get stuff like these cute anchor buttons for just 65c each or Ebay is always a safe bet. Seller minervacraftsandfabricsuk have a really wide selection and will defo have something to suit.

Happy sewing!

Got a dilemma? Send your question to info@kiss.ie and it might just be answered here.