When it comes to dancewear, the right accessories can make all the difference. And what better way to add some sparkle and glam than with rhinestones? These small but mighty gems have been a staple in dancewear for decades, elevating plain costumes into stunning works of art. From classic ballroom attire to modern hip-hop outfits, rhinestones have become a favorite among dancers and designers alike. In this blog post, we’ll explore the history of rhinestones on dance costumes in dancewear, the different types available today, and how you can apply them to your own costumes for that extra touch of glamour. Get ready to shine on stage like never before!
History of Rhinestones in Dancewear
Rhinestones have a rich history in the world of fashion and dance. These dazzling gems were originally created in the mid-18th century by a jeweler named Georg Friedrich Strass, who developed a method for coating glass with metal powder to create a diamond-like appearance. The stones quickly gained popularity among European royalty and high society, sparking a trend that would continue for centuries.
In the early 20th century, rhinestones began making their way into dancewear as dancers looked for ways to add some shimmer and shine to their costumes. Ballroom dancers especially embraced the trend, incorporating rhinestones into everything from dresses to shoes.
As dances evolved over time, so did the use of rhinestones in dancewear. In the 1970s and 80s, disco dancing brought about an explosion of glittery costumes featuring sequins and rhinestones galore. Hip-hop dancers started using more streetwear-inspired attire but still added touches of sparkle with rhinestone-studded caps or chains.
Today, rhinestone-adorned costumes can be found across all genres of dance – from ballet tutus to jazz leotards – adding an extra element of glamour and sophistication on stage. As these sparkling gems continue to evolve alongside fashion trends, one thing is certain: they will always remain an iconic part of dance culture.
Types of Rhinestones
Rhinestones come in different shapes, sizes, colors and qualities. The type of rhinestone you choose for your dancewear depends on the design you have in mind and your budget.
The most common types of rhinestones used for dancewear are flatback rhinestones, sew-on rhinestones and hotfix rhinestones. Flatback rhinestones are usually glued onto the fabric using a fabric adhesive while sew-on rhinestones require hand-sewing or machine sewing to attach them to the garment.
Hotfix rhinestones already have glue on their back that can be activated by heat from an iron or a special tool. They are easy to apply but may not be as secure as other types of rhinestones.
In addition to these basic categories, there are also specialty rhinestone options like Swarovski crystals which offer superior quality and sparkle compared to regular glass stones. There are also matte finish options for those who want a more subtle look.
Ultimately, the type of rhinestone you choose depends on personal preference and the overall aesthetic you’re going for with your dancewear design.
How to Apply Rhinestones in Dancewear
Now that you have learned about the history of rhinestones and the different types available, it’s time to talk about how to apply them to your dancewear. Here are some steps to follow:
1. Plan your design: Before applying any rhinestones, plan out your design on paper or using a software program. This will help you visualize the final product and ensure that everything is symmetrical.
2. Gather supplies: You will need rhinestones, fabric glue, tweezers or a jewel picker tool, and a flat surface to work on.
3. Apply glue: Using fabric glue, apply small dots onto the areas where you want to place your rhinestones.
4. Place rhinestones: Use tweezers or a jewel picker tool to pick up individual rhinestones and carefully place them onto the glued areas.
5. Let dry: Allow the glue sufficient time (usually 24 hours) to dry completely before wearing or washing your dancewear.
By following these steps, you can add some glamour and shine to plain dancewear with beautiful sparkling rhinestones!
Remember that practice makes perfect when it comes to applying rhinestones – don’t get discouraged if it takes a few tries before getting it just right! With patience and attention-to-detail, you’ll be able create stunning designs that elevate your dancing attire from plain to glamorous in no time at all!