How to Make Horsehair Bustle Bows for Pageant Dresses
When it comes to pageant wear, the details make all the difference. From the shimmering rhinestones to the delicate lace, every embellishment tells a story. One of my favorite ways to add that extra touch of elegance and movement to a pageant dress is with a horsehair bustle bow. These bows are not only stunning but also give the dress a dramatic, show-stopping effect as it moves across the stage.
I’ve used these bows in many of my pageant designs, and they have become a favorite among contestants and designers alike. In this post, I’ll walk you through how to make a horsehair bustle bow, and I’ll share some of my personal experiences using them in my Gingerbread and Dumbo OOC designs.
Why Choose a Horsehair Bustle Bow?
Horsehair braid is a fantastic material for bows because it holds its shape beautifully while remaining lightweight. It adds volume and structure without overwhelming the design, making it perfect for pageant dresses. Whether you want a single bow or a stacked design for extra drama, horsehair braid delivers the perfect balance of elegance and whimsy.
My Experience: Creating Bows for Pageant OOCs
One of my favorite projects featuring a horsehair bustle bow was my Gingerbread OOC (Out of Category) design. This look was inspired by the sweetness of the holidays, and I knew I wanted a bow that captured that festive magic. To make it extra special, I stacked two bows—one larger and one smaller—creating a layered effect that added depth and visual interest. The bow center was embroidered with gingerbread-themed details, tying the entire look together. The bow itself added just the right amount of structure to the bustle, making the entire outfit feel polished and cohesive.
Another memorable project was my Dumbo OOC, where I wanted to bring a sense of whimsy and nostalgia to the stage. For this look, I created a single bow with a custom embroidery design inspired by the classic story, making it a truly unique finishing touch. The way the bow moved with the outfit added so much charm, and the extra volume helped emphasize the playful yet elegant aesthetic of the design.
How to Make a Horsehair Bustle Bow
If you’re inspired to create your own horsehair bustle bow, you can follow along with my Sew Along tutorial in the Pageant and Dance Sewing Circle Facebook group. There, you’ll find step-by-step instructions that make the process easy, even if you’re new to working with horsehair braid.
Materials You’ll Need:
Sewing Machine
Fabric
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$16.49
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$4.29
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Thread
Horsehair Braid
Cutting Tools
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$21.53
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$22.99
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Rotary Cutting Tools (Optional, but make the job easier)
Steps to Create Your Bow:
- Cut fabric to desired length and width. If using 3″ horsehair braid, you will want to cut your strip 7″ wide. If you want your bow to be 5″ wide, your strip should be 11″ long.
- Fold fabric in half (Hotdog style) right sides facing each other. Sew a straight stitch at 1/2″ seam allowance to create a tube. If you would like lessons to learn to use your sewing machine, I do have a course that teaches the basics and techniques I used daily as a pageant designer called Sew Confident.
- Use a loop turner or safety pin to turn your tube right side out.
- Place a piece of clear packing tape over the end of your horsehair braid to prevent the edges from catching on the fabric as you feed it through. Feed your horsehair through the tube then cut the excess off at both ends.
- Form loops by folding your ends and overlap about a 1/2″ on each side.
- Place under your sewing machine and zig zag stitch to secure each side that is overlapped.
- Layer for dimension. If you’re stacking bows like I did for the Gingerbread OOC, arrange them to create a tiered effect.
- Secure the center. Use embroidery details, appliques, flowers, or themed fabric to bring the design to life.
- Attach to the dress with snaps so the bow stays in place while allowing for easy removal or adjustments.
Bringing Your Pageant Designs to Life
A horsehair bustle bow is more than just an accessory—it’s a statement piece that enhances the entire look of a pageant dress. Whether you want to add a pop of personality to a themed OOC or simply bring more movement to a classic gown, this bow technique is a game-changer.
If you’re ready to create your own, be sure to check out my Sew Along tutorial in the Pageant and Dance Sewing Circle Facebook group. I’ve also included links to the supplies needed so you can get started right away.
Have you tried making a horsehair bustle bow? I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts in the comments and let’s keep creating winning designs together!