Thread: Protecting sequins from sweat

I have a costume absolutely coated in sequins, but after only a dozen or so wears of wears I've had to replace a lot of sequins due to extensive colour loss. I not only managed to sweat all the way through the purple, but I also did the same to the silver underneath, and now have a huge pile of clear sequins. It's my first ever costume that was professionally made, and even though it's pretty low-end I'm fond of it, have done a lot of alterations to it (completely took apart the bra to alter angle of cups, changed to halter, took in back of bra and belt by a couple inches) and I really want to keep wearing it without damaging it. It's also popular at the Turkish restaurant I dance at with the staff and customers.

I was wondering if there's any sealants or tricks to keep the colour in it?

I've attached two slightly awkward action shots of its debut for reference.

PS: Thanks in advance!

I would like to know the answer to this one as well, I have costume that is doing the same thing.

The only sure-fire method I know is clear nail polish but perhaps a spray on clear wood varnish might work? In the back of my memory is also an image of a spray that painters (artists) use to seal their paintings. Perhaps try a riot art and craft?

that looks fantastic on you!

I've had iffy experience with nail polish, at least with trying to coat beads. One brand I tried "melted" the color off. Maybe a more expensive clear coat polish would work. You can always spot test and then return it if it doesn't work.

Originally Posted by Jessamine

I have a costume absolutely coated in sequins, but after only a dozen or so wears of wears I've had to replace a lot of sequins due to extensive colour loss. I not only managed to sweat all the way through the purple.....

You're not lining your costumes?

Line the costume with plastic the add a fabric lining.

Originally Posted by Darbla

You're not lining your costumes?

Even with lining, there are some areas that will come into contact with sweaty skin - the underarm area, for instance, and of course any beads or paillettes that dangle from the bra, and even the top of the belt if you are a sweater (I am).

I don't re-sell most of my workhorse costumes for this reason, but then again I do sometimes 8-10 shows a week, so my well-used costumes are indeed well-used.

Originally Posted by tamrahennatx

Even with lining, there are some areas that will come into contact with sweaty skin - the underarm area, for instance, and of course any beads or paillettes that dangle from the bra, and even the top of the belt if you are a sweater (I am).

Obviously. You can't use something and it still look brand new. But lining will at least help minimize sweat damage, and it seems the original poster may not have known that.

Oh no it's lined! I ripped out the original crappy lining and replaced it with thick absorbent cotton. It's the bits around my armpits, and especially the halter strap around my neck that is getting damaged. Thanks for the tip though, if I hadn't been lining my costumes I certainly would have wanted to know about it.

I'm going to look up the spray, because I just tried the nail polish trick on spare sequins and it melted the colour right off in front of me! ,m:: I think I've learned my lesson to not buy sequin monstrosities in the future because I just sweat so so much when I dance.