Bridal Entourage Fashion Tips: Stylish Ways To Incorporate DIY Creations To Your Attire

Being chosen as a member of a wedding entourage is a privilege that's usually reserved for those who are nearest and dearest to the bride. But while it's fun to be a bridesmaid or maid of honor, expect that your role will come with certain responsibilities, and you'll also have to deal with a few expenses leading up to the big day. Wedding entourage members usually take care of their own attire, and according to a recent study, the average bridesmaid dress costs between $130 to $140. This figure doesn't include the cost of accessories, nor does it cover hair and makeup expenses.

Some brides will cover the cost of the dresses, or recommend a certain shop to get discounts and avoid dealing with mismatched dresses. Most brides allow their entourage to express their personal style through the outfit that they choose, as long as they stay within the confines of the theme or the bride’s preferred color and dress length. If you want to customize your outfit without spending more, think about incorporating your DIY creations to your attire. Some handmade accessories can look a bit odd when paired with formal wear though, so aim to look classy and elegant for the big day. Here are some stylish ways to incorporate DIY creations to your attire.

Enhance Your Look with a DIY Hair Accessory

A hair accessory can enhance your wedding attire in a subtle way. Hair ornaments such as fascinators have long been a favorite accessory of those with a significant role in a wedding, such as the mother of the bride or matron of honor. This headpiece can add a playful yet elegant touch to sleek or beaded gowns, so if you're the mother of the bride, try crafting a fascinator to pair with your dress. Start by hot gluing feathers, sparkling costume jewels, and netting to a felt sheet that has been cut into a circle. Hot glue the felt sheet to two black clips, then wear the fascinator on the right side of your head.

Meanwhile, if you're a bridesmaid who wants to add some sparkle to your look, think about creating a jeweled clip by hot gluing rhinestones or mini pearls to a gold clip, then wear it on the side of your head. For a garden wedding, consider making a floral hair accessory by gluing a silk orchid or an enamel camellia to a clip. Use the flower clip to dress up a low bun, or use it as an accent above a classic chignon.

Tote Your Essentials in a DIY Purse

Being part of the bridal entourage means that you have to be ready for any fashion or style emergency on the big day. Think about it– perhaps the bride will need a lipgloss refresh, or maybe another member of the entourage might need to take care of a fallen hem. To be prepared, carry some safety pins, dress tape, lip gloss, and blotting papers in a small bag or purse.

Don’t want to spend money on a new bag? Try making a simple yet chic purse. A drawstring pouch is probably the easiest type of bag to make since it only requires fabric and a cord. Use fabric that closely matches the color of your dress or gown, then add a silver or golden cord. If you'd rather carry a small clutch, try modifying an old fabric-covered clutch by gluing rhinestones, pearls, silk flowers, or satin ribbons on it.

Handmade accessories can help to enhance your look for your friend or family member's wedding day. Consider these style tips if you're part of the bridal entourage, and look fabulous without spending a fortune.