When you are crafting a burlesque costume, the sparkle matters as much as the fabric and design. Rhinestones add the level of glamour that catches the spotlight and turns heads on stage. But with so many types and styles available, how do you know which rhinestones are right for your costume? Here is a complete guide to choosing, attaching and maintaining rhinestones for burlesque performance wear.
Types of Rhinestones
You have three main format options when selecting rhinestones, each suited to different parts of a burlesque costume.
Non-hotfix flatback rhinestones are applied manually with crystal-grade adhesive, giving precise control over placement. They are versatile and work on almost any surface, making them the most common choice for detailed burlesque embellishment. Browse our Swarovski non-hotfix flatback collection.
Hotfix rhinestones come pre-coated with heat-activated adhesive, ideal for fabric-friendly applications across large surface areas. Browse our Swarovski hotfix flatback collection.
Sew-on rhinestones have drilled holes that allow stitching directly onto fabric for areas that need extra durability and security through vigorous performance. Browse our Swarovski sew-on crystals collection.
Best Sizes and Shapes for Burlesque Costumes
Choosing the right sizes and shapes is essential to achieving a balanced yet eye-catching effect. A combination of sizes creates the most visual interest: larger rhinestones (SS30 and above) grab attention as hero pieces, while smaller sizes (SS12 to SS20) fill in gaps neatly. Popular shapes like round, teardrop and navette (pointed oval) add flair and draw attention to curves and contours.
Across the four-tier brand framework, the burlesque community typically combines tiers strategically: Swarovski for hero pieces and statement focal points, Serinity or Preciosa for mid-range coverage, and Estella for ultra-budget background embellishment on high-density areas.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before you start, gather all necessary tools to make the process smoother:
- Rhinestones in various sizes and shapes
- Crystal-grade adhesive (Gem-Tac for fabric, E6000 Plus for tougher applications)
- Wax rhinestone picker or fine tweezers
- Fabric chalk or washable marker for design planning
- Hotfix applicator tool (if using hotfix rhinestones)
- Fine needle and matching thread (if using sew-on stones)
Having tools ready before starting means fewer interruptions, smoother application and a cleaner final look.
Best Techniques for Attaching Rhinestones
There are three popular methods for attaching rhinestones to a burlesque costume, each offering different benefits depending on the fabric and durability requirements.
Gluing Method (Most Common and Secure for Costumes)
Gluing is the most reliable way to attach rhinestones for burlesque work. Apply small dots of adhesive directly onto the costume fabric: just enough to hold the stone without spilling out around the edges. Carefully place each rhinestone using tweezers or a wax picker, gently pressing down to secure.
Gem-Tac dries clear, flexible and washable, making it ideal for costumes worn repeatedly. For heavier rhinestones or costumes undergoing intense performance routines, E6000 Plus offers greater bond strength.
Hotfix Method (For Fabric-Friendly Applications)
Hotfix rhinestones come pre-coated with adhesive that activates when heated. Using a hotfix applicator tool, position the rhinestone and apply gentle heat. The adhesive melts and bonds securely to fabric fibres. This method is quick, mess-free and ideal for sturdy fabrics like cotton, velvet or heavy satin.
Be cautious with delicate or synthetic fabrics that could be damaged by heat. Always test a small hidden area first.
Sewing Method (For Extra Durability on Delicate Fabrics)
For costumes made from delicate fabrics like lace or silk, sewing is the safest choice. Sew-on rhinestones offer unmatched durability and will not damage the fabric with heat or glue residue. Using a fine needle and matching thread, stitch each rhinestone securely, ensuring they remain firmly in place throughout performances.
Sewing is more time-consuming, but it provides peace of mind for fragile, expensive or heavily-handled materials.
Placement and Design Tips for Maximum Sparkle
Planning Your Design Before Applying
Before attaching rhinestones, sketch the design directly onto the fabric using fabric chalk or a washable marker. This lets you visualise placement and spacing without guesswork. Consider symmetry, shapes and contours of the costume to highlight your figure. Strategic placement enhances movement on stage, creating stunning effects as the rhinestones catch the light.
Best Areas to Rhinestone on a Burlesque Costume
Certain areas of a burlesque costume naturally draw attention and benefit from added sparkle. Common spots include necklines, bust lines, waistbands and hemlines. Fringe, straps and embellishments around cuffs or collars also look stunning with rhinestones.
Placing rhinestones along curves or seams helps define shape, while scattering smaller gems across open spaces creates a sparkling gradient effect that amplifies stage presence. For colour selection guidance, see our guide to rhinestone colours and effects.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced costume-makers can run into pitfalls. Knowing what mistakes to avoid saves time and frustration.
Using Too Much Glue
One of the biggest mistakes is applying excessive glue, causing it to ooze around the rhinestones and create a messy finish. Less is more: use just enough adhesive to secure the rhinestone. If glue seeps out, remove excess immediately with a toothpick or damp cloth before it sets.
Choosing the Wrong Rhinestone Type for Fabric
Always match the rhinestone type to the fabric. Hotfix stones can scorch delicate fabrics, while glue methods may seep through sheer materials and leave visible patches. Evaluate the fabric before choosing the attachment method to avoid unnecessary damage.
Not Allowing Enough Drying Time Before Wearing
Rushing the drying process leads to rhinestones shifting or falling off. Allow a minimum of 24 hours drying time before wearing the costume, ideally 48 hours where possible. Proper curing time ensures the adhesive bond reaches full strength before performance stress is applied. For a complete breakdown of application mistakes that shorten gem lifespan, see our guide to common rhinestone application mistakes.
How to Care for and Maintain Rhinestoned Costumes
Proper care ensures rhinestones stay securely attached, dazzling audiences for performances to come. Hand-wash rhinestoned costumes gently in cold water, avoiding harsh detergents and excessive agitation. Always air-dry garments flat to avoid heat damage or stones loosening.
Store costumes flat or neatly hung to avoid bending or crushing the stones. Avoid fabric softener, which can gradually weaken adhesive bonds over time. A little extra care goes a long way in preserving your costume's sparkle across many performances.
Final Thoughts
Attaching rhinestones to a burlesque costume enhances its elegance, drama and overall impact on stage. With careful planning, thoughtful rhinestone selection and meticulous application, your costume will shine under any spotlight.
As an Authorised Swarovski Distribution Partner and Authorised Preciosa Partner, we supply genuine premium rhinestones across the four-tier brand framework (Swarovski, Serinity, Preciosa and Estella) in all three application formats. The right combination of brand tier and application method makes the difference between a costume that survives one performance and one that lasts an entire season.
FAQs
What is the best type of rhinestone for a burlesque costume?
It depends on the part of the costume. Non-hotfix flatbacks suit detailed work and delicate fabrics where you need precise placement and adhesive control. Hotfix rhinestones work well for fast coverage on heat-tolerant fabrics like cotton, velvet and heavy satin. Sew-on stones offer the most durability for high-movement areas and statement focal pieces. Most professional burlesque costumes combine all three.
What size rhinestones should I use for a burlesque costume?
Use a combination of sizes for maximum visual interest. Larger stones (SS30 and above) work as hero pieces and statement focal points. Mid-range sizes (SS16 to SS20) provide texture across larger surfaces. Smaller stones (SS12 and below) fill detail work and outline patterns. The mix creates depth and movement that single-size designs cannot match.
What glue is best for attaching rhinestones to burlesque costumes?
Gem-Tac is the standard choice for fabric because it dries clear, remains flexible and is washable. E6000 Plus delivers stronger bonds for hard surfaces and heavier rhinestones where the extra security is needed. Avoid hot glue, super glue and craft PVA: they either fail to bond properly or damage crystal coatings.
How long should rhinestone glue dry before performing?
Allow a minimum of 24 hours drying time before wearing the costume, ideally 48 hours where possible. The full cure time ensures the adhesive bond reaches maximum strength before performance stress is applied. Rushing the drying process is one of the most common causes of rhinestones falling off mid-performance.
Where should I place rhinestones on a burlesque costume?
Focus on areas that naturally draw attention and catch stage lighting: necklines, bust lines, waistbands, hemlines, fringe, straps and decorative elements at cuffs or collars. Placing rhinestones along curves and seams defines shape, while scattering smaller stones across open spaces creates a sparkling gradient that amplifies stage presence.
How do I wash a rhinestoned burlesque costume?
Hand-wash gently in cold water using a small amount of mild detergent. Avoid harsh detergents, fabric softener (which weakens adhesive bonds) and excessive agitation. Always air-dry flat rather than using a tumble dryer, which can heat-damage adhesive and crystal coatings. Store the costume flat or neatly hung between performances.
