Turn Plain Bridesmaid Dresses Celestial: Easy DIY Ideas

If you’re dreaming of celestial bridesmaid dresses but can’t find the perfect ready-made set—especially in inclusive sizing—there are plenty of creative ways to get that magical look. The good news is almost any plain dress can transform into a cosmic masterpiece with just a few tweaks. The right embellishments and accessories can help bring your starry vision to life without breaking the bank or relying on questionable online shops.

Why Celestial Bridesmaid Dresses Are Having a Moment

Celestial themes have taken over the wedding world—not just for their dreamy aesthetic but also for how beautifully they tie together different elements of a celebration. Star motifs and shimmering details add an otherworldly touch that feels both whimsical and timeless. If your own dress features stars or sparkles, echoing that through your bridal party creates a sense of cohesion while letting everyone’s personality shine.

But sourcing those coveted star-embellished gowns isn’t always straightforward. Many popular options are discontinued or don’t offer extended sizes. That leaves many couples considering how to DIY the look from scratch.

DIY Ideas for Achieving a Starry Look

There’s more than one way to make plain gowns feel like they belong at a cosmic gala. Here’s how you can get started:

• Star Embellished Overlays: Add a layer of tulle or mesh embroidered or sequined with stars over existing dresses. Many Etsy sellers offer star tulle fabric in various colors.
• Iron-On Patches & Appliqués: Buy iron-on or sew-on star appliqués in metallic or holographic finishes from reputable fabric stores like JOANN. Arrange them on bodices or skirts as desired.
• Star Belts & Sashes: Create custom belts using rhinestone-studded ribbon or buy ready-made star-themed sashes from bridal accessory shops.
• Celestial Jewelry: Layer in moon and star earrings, hairpieces, necklaces, or even anklets for subtle sparkle that ties the theme together.
• Shoe Clips & Accessories: Star-shaped shoe clips and hairpins add extra shine without altering the dress itself.

Mixing one or two of these elements keeps things cohesive but not overdone.

How to Add Star Tulle (and Other Overlays) Like a Pro

One of the best ways to get those iconic celestial bridesmaid dresses is by adding an overlay made from sequined star tulle or lace. Here’s what you’ll need:

• The base dress (in any style and color that fits your vision)
• A piece of star tulle big enough to cover the area you want (bodice only, full skirt overlay, sleeves…)
• A skilled tailor or seamstress who can stitch the overlay securely without affecting the dress’s fit

The process is surprisingly flexible:

1. Order sample swatches first to check color matches in person.
2. Have each bridesmaid bring her own base gown (great for size inclusivity).
3. Your tailor can add overlays as detachable layers if you want something temporary—or sew them on permanently.

For inspiration on overlay techniques and materials, check resources like this guide from Martha Stewart Weddings. This approach gives you total control over fabric quality and ensures every member of your party feels comfortable in her fit.

Other Accessory Ideas for a Celestial Vibe

Accessories are powerful finishing touches:

• Sparkling Capes: Sheer capes with scattered sequins look dramatic yet ethereal.
• Crowns & Headbands: Try stargazer headbands or dainty tiaras from trusted sites like BHLDN.
• Mismatched Layers: Combine different metallic shades—silver stars on gold jewelry—for visual interest.

Don’t underestimate how much jewelry and hairpieces can elevate even a simple silhouette.

A Quick Story: When Plan B Becomes Plan A+

One bride shared her experience after falling hard for designer celestial gowns—only to discover none came in plus sizes or within budget. Instead of giving up on her vision, she sourced soft navy maxi dresses at a local department store. With some help from friends handy with sewing machines (and several yards of glittery tulle), each dress got its own unique constellation pattern stitched onto sheer overlays. The result? Every friend felt celebrated—and her photos looked straight out of a stargazer’s dream.

Bite-Sized Tips for Your Cosmic Crew

• Select neutral base colors (navy, black, blush) so overlays pop.
• Create mood boards so everyone stays on theme—even when mixing dress styles.
• If sewing feels daunting, focus on bold jewelry and belts instead.
• Pilot your chosen method on one dress before updating the group—test iron-ons carefully!

Your Turn—What Would You Try?

There’s no single formula for achieving beautiful celestial bridesmaid dresses; it’s all about mixing creative details until it feels just right for your celebration—and your crew’s comfort level. Which idea fits your dream wedding best? Would you experiment with overlays yourself or keep it simple with accessories?