Creating A Tulle Skirt For Your Wedding Day

Tulle skirts are one of the most searched-for clothing items, and they can be expensive to purchase. However, making your own tulle skirt is a budget-friendly option, as tulle can be purchased online for a low price. To make a tulle skirt, you will need tulle (obviously), ribbon, elastic or both, a sewing machine, and some sewing supplies. Depending on the tutorial you follow, you may also need to know how to sew an invisible zipper. There are many tutorials available online, with some claiming that you can make a skirt in just 20 minutes! Whether you make or buy your tulle skirt, there are many styling options. You can wear a tulle skirt over another dress or pair it with a tank top, corset, or blouse.

Tulle fabric and colour options

When it comes to tulle fabric, there are a variety of options to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the fabric for your wedding tulle skirt:

Fabric Type

The most common types of tulle fabric used for wedding skirts include nylon, rayon, and silk. Nylon tulle is known for its durability and affordability, while rayon tulle offers a soft and flowing appearance. Silk tulle, although more expensive, provides a luxurious and elegant look to the skirt.

Colour Options

The colour of the tulle fabric you choose will depend on your personal preference and the theme of your wedding. Here are some popular colour options for wedding tulle skirts:

• White: White tulle is a classic choice for weddings, evoking a sense of purity, delicacy, and elegance. It is often associated with traditional wedding dresses and is a popular option for brides.
• Ivory: Ivory tulle offers a gentle off-white hue that complements most skin tones. It is just as traditional as white for wedding dresses and is a popular choice among brides looking for a softer alternative to stark white.
• Pastel Colours: For a more whimsical and romantic look, consider pastel colours such as blush pink, light blue, or mint green. These soft colours are perfect for outdoor weddings or brides who want a subtle pop of colour.
• Bold Colours: If you want to make a statement with your wedding skirt, opt for bold colours like navy, burgundy, or even black. These colours can add a dramatic and unique touch to your wedding ensemble.

When selecting the colour, consider the overall aesthetic you wish to achieve and the colour scheme of your wedding. You can also opt for a custom-dyed tulle to match a specific colour palette or theme.

Fabric Weight and Stiffness

The weight and stiffness of the tulle fabric will impact the volume and drape of your skirt. If you're aiming for a soft and flowy look, go for a lightweight tulle with a softer drape. On the other hand, if you want a more structured and voluminous skirt, choose a stiffer tulle fabric, such as nets or tulles that have been starched to add stiffness.

It's important to note that the number of tulle layers and the stiffness of the fabric will also affect the overall volume of your skirt. For a subtle and bohemian look, a few layers of soft, lightweight tulle can be used. However, for a dramatic princess-style skirt, you may require multiple layers of stiffer tulle.

In conclusion, when choosing the tulle fabric for your wedding skirt, consider the type of fabric, colour, weight, and stiffness to achieve the desired look and feel. Don't be afraid to mix and match different types of tulle to create a unique and personalised skirt that reflects your style and personality.

Tulle skirt patterns and lengths

The length of your tulle skirt is entirely up to you. To decide on the length, you can measure from your waist to your knee (or wherever you want the skirt to fall) and add 1 inch. This will be your "length" measurement.

For the waist radius, you will need to measure your waist and then divide that number by 3.14. Then, divide the resulting number by 2. This will be your "waist radius" measurement.

Add the length and waist radius measurements together. This final number will determine how much tulle and lining fabric you will need. If the number is 27 or less, you will need about 6 yards of tulle (54 inches wide). If the number is more than 27, you will need about 12 yards. For the lining, you will want your waist measurement (the full circumference of your waist) multiplied by 1.5.

When it comes to the pattern, you will want to cut out a half-circle. You can do this by folding your tulle in half lengthwise if your final number is 27 or less; otherwise, you can skip the folding. Then, fold it in half like a book and fold it in half again so that you have eight layers total. Pin your pattern piece on top and cut it out.

If you are making a multi-layered skirt, you will need to cut out multiple half-circles and sew sets of two half-circles together to make whole circles. You can then baste the circles together at the top, stack them on top of each other, and mark the quarters of the waist opening with pins.

For a simple, single-layered skirt, you can cut out your half-circle pattern and then sew the two ends together to create a tube. Then, sew the cut edges of the lining fabric together to create another tube. Baste around the top edge of the lining, gather it until it fits your waist, and sew it to the inside of the waistband.

Finally, try on your new tulle skirt!

Tulle skirt sewing tutorials

To make a wedding tulle skirt, you will need to do some basic math to calculate the length of the skirt and the waist radius. First, decide how long you want the skirt to be by measuring from your waist to your knee (or the desired length) and add 1 inch. Next, measure your waist circumference and divide that number by 3.14, then divide it again by 2 to get the waist radius. Add these two numbers together.

The amount of tulle fabric you need depends on the final number you get from the calculations above. If it is 27 or less, you will need about 6 yards of 54-inch wide fabric. If it is more than 27, you will need about 12 yards. For the lining, you will need 1.5 times your waist measurement in fabric. You will also need elastic that fits snugly around your waist, plus 1 inch for overlap, and a large piece of butcher paper for making a pattern (optional).

Step 1: Prepare the Tulle and Lining Fabric

Wash, dry, and iron your tulle fabric to make it as soft as possible. If using butcher paper, create a pattern piece for your skirt in the shape of a half-circle. Cut out this pattern piece and set it aside.

Fold your tulle fabric in half lengthwise if your final number is 27 or less; otherwise, skip the folding. Then, fold it in half again to create eight layers total. Pin your pattern piece on top and cut out the fabric. If your fabric is too small to cut full circles, sew half-circles together to create four whole circles.

Step 2: Create the Tulle Layers

Baste two of the full circles together at the top and repeat with the remaining two circles to create two large fabric tubes. Stack these tubes on top of each other and mark each of the four quarters of the waist opening with pins.

Step 3: Prepare the Elastic Waistband

Pin the edges of your elastic waistband together with a 1/2-inch overlap and zig-zag stitch securely. Mark the four quarters of the waistband with pins so you can match it with the tulle.

Step 4: Attach the Tulle to the Elastic

Pin the tulle to the inside of the elastic waistband, matching the pins at the quarters. Zig-zag stitch all the way around.

Step 5: Sew the Lining

Create a tube for the lining by sewing the cut edges together. Baste around the top edge and gather it until it fits your waist. Pin the lining in place under the tulle and zig-zag stitch it securely to the elastic waistband.

Step 6: Finish the Skirt

Trim any excess fabric from the bottom of the lining so it doesn't show below the tulle. And there you have it—your very own wedding tulle skirt!

Tulle skirt styling options

Tulle skirts are incredibly versatile and can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. Here are some styling options for a tulle skirt, whether you're attending a wedding or simply looking to elevate your everyday look:

Keep it Casual

For a more casual look, pair your tulle skirt with a simple tank top, just like Carrie Bradshaw in *Sex and the City*. A T-shirt, sweatshirt, hoodie, or pyjama-style top can also work well for a relaxed, yet stylish ensemble. As for footwear, don't be afraid to experiment! Sneakers, lug sole boots, and chunky loafers can all be paired with a tulle skirt for a unique and modern outfit.

Go Matching

For a modern princess look, opt for a matching crop top with your tulle skirt. Add some edgy accessories, such as a leather jacket and chunky boots, to balance out the sweetness of the tulle. Alternatively, go for the classic ballerina look with a sleek bodysuit or tank top and some understated sandals or ballet flats.

Dress it Up

If you're looking to dress up your tulle skirt, a blazer, button-down shirt, or a crisp white button-down shirt are all excellent choices. Add some embellishments and accessories, such as a patent leather belt, pointy mule pumps, cat-eye sunglasses, and a statement purse. For a more formal event, such as a wedding, consider a matching set with a long, flowing tulle skirt and a crop top or bodysuit.

Play with Layers

Tulle skirts are perfect for layering, especially in the winter. Try pairing your skirt with a knit sweater over a collared shirt for a cosy, yet stylish look. Add some chunky loafers and warm socks, or a knit cap and a long wool coat for extra warmth. If you want to add a touch of elegance, throw on a blazer and consider belting the look to define your waist.

Experiment with Colours and Patterns

Tulle skirts come in a variety of colours and patterns, so don't be afraid to experiment! A classic black tulle skirt can be paired with a drop-waist top and black boots for a sleek, elegant look. Alternatively, go for a bold colour or pattern, such as a rainbow tulle skirt or a floral print, to make a statement.

With its versatility and ability to be dressed up or down, the tulle skirt is a must-have piece for any wardrobe. Whether you're attending a wedding or simply looking to elevate your everyday style, the styling options for a tulle skirt are endless.

Tulle skirt purchasing options

If you would rather purchase a tulle skirt than make one, there are many options available to you.

If you are looking for a quick and convenient option, you could consider purchasing a tulle skirt from a major online retailer, such as Amazon. A simple search for "tulle wedding skirt" on Amazon yields over 2,000 results, with prices ranging from $18.99 to $49.99. Many of the skirts offered have prime shipping, and some even offer coupon discounts.

Alternatively, you could explore the handmade and vintage options available on Etsy. A search for "tulle wedding skirt" on Etsy yields over 5,000 results, with prices ranging from $30.45 to $252.00. Many of the skirts offered have free shipping, and some even offer discounts for a limited time.

For those seeking a more luxurious or bespoke option, you could consider purchasing a silk and tulle bridal skirt from a high-end brand such as Emily Riggs. Founded in 2012, Emily Riggs has become a highly sought-after brand for discerning brides, known for its couture craftsmanship and elegant designs.

With so many options available, you are sure to find a tulle skirt that suits your needs and budget.

Frequently asked questions