Add Bling To Your Plain Wedding Dress: Creative Ways

how to add bling to a plain wedding dress

There are several ways to add bling to a plain wedding dress. One way is to add accessories such as a crystal sash, belt, veil, headpiece, or jewellery. Alternatively, you can add crystals, rhinestones, bugle beads, sequins, or pearls directly to the dress. However, this option is more expensive and labour-intensive, and there is a risk of ruining the dress.

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Add a belt, sash or brooch

Adding a belt, sash or brooch is a great way to add bling to your wedding dress without making any permanent changes.

A belt is a good option if you want to add some sparkle to your waistline, and it can also help to define your waist and enhance your figure. You can choose a belt made of crystals, rhinestones or other jewels, or opt for a fabric belt with a sparkly brooch in the centre. If you're handy with a needle and thread, you could sew the belt directly onto the dress, or you could tie it around your waist and secure it with the ribbon or a bow.

Sashes are another popular choice for adding bling to a wedding dress. You can buy a plain sash and add your own crystals, rhinestones or sequins, or choose a pre-made sash with the embellishments already attached. When styling a sash, you might want to avoid tying it in a bow at the back, as this could draw attention away from the dress itself. Instead, consider attaching the sash to the sides of the dress, or having it sewn into the seams.

Brooches are a more subtle way to add bling to your wedding dress, providing "a nice touch of sparkle". You can pin a brooch to a belt or sash, or attach it directly to the dress under the bust or at the waistline. If you're adding a brooch to a belt, you might want to avoid a style that ties at the back, as this could create a cluttered look.

When choosing a belt, sash or brooch, consider the style of your dress. For example, if your dress has a lot of ruffles or a delicate bodice, you might want to avoid a belt or sash that could detract from these features. Similarly, if your dress has an open back, a belt that ties at the waist might not be the best option. It's also important to consider your other accessories when making your decision, as you don't want your belt, sash or brooch to clash with your necklace, earrings or headpiece.

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Sew on crystals, rhinestones, pearls or sequins

Sewing crystals, rhinestones, pearls, or sequins onto a wedding dress is a great way to add some glamour and shine. Here are some tips to help you achieve the desired look:

Planning the Design

Before you start sewing, it's important to plan the design and layout of the crystals, rhinestones, pearls, or sequins. Decide on the specific areas of the dress where you want to add these embellishments, such as the sleeves, neckline, or bodice. Consider the overall theme and colour scheme of your wedding and choose crystals that complement your colour palette. Take pictures of your dress and experiment with different arrangements of crystals to find the most aesthetically pleasing pattern.

Choosing the Right Crystals

Select high-quality crystals, rhinestones, pearls, or sequins that match your dress and wedding theme. You can find these embellishments in various sizes, shapes, and colours. Clear crystals are a popular choice, but you can also mix and match with your wedding colours or choose coloured crystals that complement your dress.

Sewing Techniques

When sewing crystals, rhinestones, pearls, or sequins, use a new needle and matching silk thread to create a neat finish. Sew each piece carefully, one by one, following the planned pattern. Avoid making mistakes, as needle holes in the fabric will be permanent. If you're adding crystals to a delicate fabric like lace, consider sewing them onto a piece of lace first and then attaching it to the dress, as suggested by some sources.

Cost and Time Considerations

Embellishing a wedding dress with crystals can be time-consuming and costly. Take this into account when planning your project, and consider seeking professional help if you're unsure about doing it yourself.

Alternative Methods

If sewing isn't your forte, there are alternative methods to attach crystals to your dress. Flat-back crystals, for example, can be glued onto the fabric with craft glue. However, sewing is generally considered a neater and more reliable method.

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Wear sparkly accessories

If you want to add some sparkle to your wedding dress, a great way to do so is by wearing sparkly accessories. This way, you can avoid making any permanent changes to your dress, and still get the bling you desire.

One way to do this is by choosing a sparkly veil and headpiece. This will not only add some glamour to your overall look but will also draw attention to your face and hair. You can also opt for a sparkly hairpiece without the veil, or even add some bling to your hair accessories.

Another way to add some shine is through your jewellery. A statement necklace can be the perfect way to draw attention to your décolletage, especially if your dress has a deep-V or halter neckline. You could also opt for tassel earrings, bold ear cuffs, or simple stud earrings with a bit of sparkle. If you want to keep things simple, a pair of delicate, sparkly bracelets can add some glamour to your overall look, without drawing attention away from your dress.

If you want to add some bling to your waist, you could opt for a crystal sash or belt. This will not only add some sparkle but can also help to define your waist and enhance your silhouette. You could also add some bling to your wrists and ankles with bridal cuffs, which are usually embellished with crystals or beads and finished with a soft ribbon.

Finally, to complete your look, you could add some delicate gloves. Opera gloves, which end just above the elbows, can add elegance and style, especially if you're wearing a strapless or short-sleeved gown. Elbow gloves, which fit just below the elbows, are simple and fuss-free, adding style without stealing focus from your dress. Wrist gloves, meanwhile, are the perfect pair to a long-sleeved gown and can come in plain or embellished satin or delicate lace.

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Add bling to your veil

Adding bling to your veil is a great way to bring glimmer and shine to your wedding attire. Here are some ideas and tips to help you achieve this:

Choosing the Right Veil:

Start by selecting a plain veil that complements your wedding dress. Consider the length and style of the veil. You can find affordable options at craft stores or online.

Adding Crystals or Rhinestones:

Decide on the placement of your crystals or rhinestones. Mark the desired locations with a marker or fabric pen to ensure even spacing. You can attach the crystals or rhinestones using fabric glue or by sewing them on. If gluing, choose flat-backed crystals. For sewing, select rhinestones with small holes, similar to beads.

Using Different Materials:

Explore other options like sequins, bugle beads, or pearls to add sparkle to your veil. Sewing on these embellishments can be time-consuming but may provide a more secure finish.

Pre-Embellished Veils:

If you prefer a more convenient option, consider purchasing a veil that already has embellishments. Many online sellers and bridal shops offer veils with rhinestones, crystals, pearls, or beading. These veils provide instant sparkle and can save you the time and effort of adding bling yourself.

Bling Placement:

When adding bling to your veil, consider placing the embellishments along the edge or scattering them throughout the veil for an all-over sparkle. You can also focus on specific areas, such as the corners or creating a gradient effect.

Adding bling to your veil is a fun way to personalize your wedding attire and make a unique statement. Remember to plan the placement of your embellishments and choose the right attachment method for a secure and long-lasting finish.

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Outline the neck with crystals

Adding crystals to outline the neckline of your wedding dress is a great way to add some bling and make your dress stand out. It is important to note that some gowns with delicate materials may not suit crystals, so it is always a good idea to consult a professional tailor before proceeding.

If you are confident in your abilities, you can add crystals yourself by sewing or gluing them onto the dress. There are two main ways to glue crystals: the regular method involves placing glue on the fabric and then sticking the crystal on top; the other method is called hotfix, where there is already glue on the back of the crystal, so you lay them out and apply heat for them to stick.

If you are hesitant or unsure about the process, it is best to leave it to an expert tailor, who can advise on the best method for your dress. They will also be able to ensure that the crystals are securely attached and do not fall off during your special day.

Adding crystals to the neckline can be a subtle yet effective way to bring some sparkle to your wedding dress. It is a great option if you want to avoid more prominent crystal designs or if the fabric of your dress is not suitable for extensive crystal work.

Frequently asked questions

There are several ways to add bling to a plain wedding dress. You can opt for a beaded belt, sash, or brooch, or add rhinestones, crystals, pearls, or sequins to the dress. You can also add bling through your accessories, such as a sparkly veil, headpiece, or jewellery.

If you don't want to make any permanent changes to your wedding dress, you can opt for accessories such as a belt, sash, or brooch. You can also add bling through your jewellery, veil, or headpiece.

The cost of adding bling to a wedding dress can vary depending on the materials used and the labour involved. For example, adding rhinestones, crystals, or sequins to a dress can be expensive and labour-intensive. A beaded belt or sash can be a more affordable option, with prices starting at around $140.

Before adding bling to your wedding dress, it is important to consider the style of the dress and your personal taste. It is also recommended to try on the dress with full makeup, hair, and accessories to get a complete look before making any changes. Additionally, if you are not a talented seamstress, it is recommended to seek professional help or opt for accessories instead.

Yes, if you are looking for a more subtle touch of bling, you can opt for accessories such as a sparkly veil, headpiece, or jewellery. You can also add bling to your overall outfit, such as outrageous shoes or a fancy necklace that complements the neckline of your dress.

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