Dried Flower Crowns: Perfect for Festivals and Weddings

Dried flower crowns have become a popular accessory for festivals, weddings, and other special occasions due to their beauty, sustainability, and timeless appeal. Combining bohemian aesthetics with nature-inspired elegance, these crowns are versatile enough to suit a wide variety of styles and settings. Unlike fresh flowers, dried blooms offer durability, making them an ideal choice for creating stunning crowns that can be preserved as keepsakes long after the event.

This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about dried flower crowns, from the selection of flowers to different styling options and DIY tips for creating your own masterpiece.

1. Why Choose Dried Flower Crowns?

Dried flower crowns offer several benefits over fresh flower arrangements, particularly for outdoor events such as festivals or weddings. Here are some key reasons why dried flower crowns are the perfect choice:

a. Durability and Longevity

One of the primary advantages of using dried flowers in crowns is their longevity. Fresh flowers begin to wilt within hours of being cut, especially in warm weather, but dried flowers maintain their appearance for months or even years. This makes them ideal for all-day events like festivals or long wedding ceremonies.

b. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable

Dried flowers are a sustainable option, especially when compared to artificial flowers or mass-produced fresh flowers that require significant water and pesticides. Many dried flowers can be sourced locally and are often used in their natural state without harmful chemical treatments. By choosing dried flowers, you’re making an eco-friendly choice that aligns with environmentally conscious wedding and festival trends.

c. Unique Aesthetic

Dried flowers offer a unique, rustic beauty that can be tailored to fit various styles. Whether you’re going for a boho-chic vibe, vintage glamour, or minimalist elegance, dried flower crowns can be customized to complement your overall look. The earthy tones and textures of dried flowers also bring a sense of whimsy and charm that fresh flowers sometimes lack.

d. Keepsake Quality

Unlike fresh flower crowns, which typically need to be discarded after the event, dried flower crowns can be kept as mementos or displayed as decor after the occasion. Many brides choose to preserve their dried flower crowns as a lasting reminder of their special day, while festival-goers can reuse them for multiple events.

2. Popular Dried Flowers for Crowns

When crafting a dried flower crown, the choice of flowers is crucial to achieving the desired look. Here are some of the most popular dried flowers and elements that work beautifully in crowns:

a. Lavender

Lavender is a favorite for its fragrant aroma and delicate purple blooms. It’s perfect for rustic or bohemian-themed crowns and adds a calming, natural scent. Lavender pairs well with other neutral tones and offers a soft, whimsical touch.

b. Baby’s Breath (Gypsophila)

Baby’s breath is a classic choice for flower crowns, both fresh and dried. Its tiny white blossoms create a soft, airy look that complements any flower combination. It’s ideal for minimalist, vintage, or romantic themes and can be used as a filler or main focus of the crown.

c. Roses

Dried roses retain their romantic allure even after they’ve been preserved. Whether in soft pinks, creams, or deep reds, dried roses add elegance and a timeless quality to flower crowns. They work beautifully for wedding crowns, offering a more traditional, formal touch to the otherwise rustic vibe of dried flowers.

d. Pampas Grass

For a bohemian look, pampas grass is a popular choice. Its soft, fluffy plumes bring texture and volume to flower crowns, making it perfect for a more statement-making design. The neutral tones of pampas grass also allow it to complement a wide variety of dried flowers.

e. Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus offers not only a soft, muted green color but also a subtle fragrance that adds to the overall sensory experience of the crown. Its delicate leaves work well as fillers or base greenery, providing structure and balance to the crown’s design.

f. Amaranth

Known for its long, cascading tassels, dried amaranth adds a dramatic touch to any flower crown. Available in rich colors like burgundy, deep red, and even green, amaranth is perfect for a bold, boho-chic statement piece that stands out in a crowd.

g. Strawflowers

Strawflowers are an excellent choice for their durability and vibrant colors. They come in a variety of hues, from yellow to pink and red, and their papery texture holds up well over time. These flowers add a cheerful pop of color to crowns and are ideal for festival-goers looking for a lively, eye-catching accessory.

3. Styling Dried Flower Crowns for Different Occasions

Dried flower crowns can be styled to suit different themes, occasions, and personal aesthetics. Below are some popular styling ideas for festivals and weddings.

a. Festival Flower Crowns

Festivals are the perfect occasion for bold, playful flower crowns. When styling a crown for a festival, think bright colors, oversized blooms, and mixed textures. Dried globe thistles, craspedia (billy balls), and amaranth can all be used to create a fun, vibrant look.

• Boho Style: Incorporate pampas grass, eucalyptus, and a mix of brightly colored dried flowers like strawflowers or amaranth for a laid-back boho vibe.
• Music Festival Ready: Choose a large, statement flower as the focal point, such as a dried sunflower or peony, and surround it with smaller blooms like baby’s breath or lavender. Add feathers, beads, or ribbon for extra flair.
• Natural & Earthy: For a more organic look, use neutral tones with pampas grass, bunny tails, and dried lavender. Incorporate elements like wheat stalks or dried ferns for a rustic, earthy feel.

b. Wedding Flower Crowns

For weddings, dried flower crowns can range from simple and understated to luxurious and elaborate, depending on the bride’s style and the wedding’s theme. Here are a few popular options:

• Romantic Elegance: Use dried roses, eucalyptus, and baby’s breath to create a soft, romantic crown that complements a formal wedding dress. Keep the colors neutral, with blush tones and creams for a timeless, classic look.
• Vintage Glamour: For a vintage-inspired wedding, choose muted colors like dusty pinks, lavender, and soft greens. Incorporate lace or pearls into the crown for an added touch of elegance.
• Bohemian Bride: For a free-spirited, bohemian bride, go for a more relaxed, asymmetrical design. Combine pampas grass, dried ferns, and colorful flowers like craspedia and amaranth. This style works beautifully with loose, flowing dresses and outdoor weddings.

4. How to Make Your Own Dried Flower Crown: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating your own dried flower crown is a rewarding and fun DIY project. Whether you’re preparing for a wedding, festival, or special event, making your own crown allows you to personalize the design to your style.

Materials You’ll Need:

• Floral wire
• Floral tape
• Wire cutters
• Dried flowers of your choice
• Greenery (eucalyptus, ferns, etc.)
• Ribbon (optional for tying)
• Hot glue gun (optional for securing delicate flowers)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Measure and Cut the Wire
   • Start by measuring the circumference of your head with floral wire. Leave an extra inch or two for comfort and adjustability, then cut the wire to the desired length.
   • Form a circular base by twisting the ends of the wire together. Wrap floral tape around the connection point to secure it.
2. Prepare the Flowers
   • Cut your dried flowers and greenery into small stems, leaving about 2-3 inches of stem for each flower. Group smaller flowers together into little clusters if you prefer a fuller look.
3. Attach the Greenery
   • Begin by attaching greenery like eucalyptus or ferns to the floral wire. Use floral tape to wrap the stems tightly around the wire. This will serve as the base layer of your crown.
4. Add the Dried Flowers
   • Once your greenery is secured, start attaching the dried flowers to the crown. Place the flowers along the wire, securing them with floral tape. Start with larger blooms first, spacing them evenly around the crown.
   • Fill in the gaps with smaller flowers or accents like dried amaranth or pampas grass. For a more intricate design, layer the flowers at different angles for a fuller, more dynamic look.
5. Finishing Touches
   • Continue adding flowers until the entire crown is covered, or stop halfway for a half-crown style. For a more polished finish, wrap floral tape around any exposed wire.
   • If desired, attach ribbon to the ends of the crown so it can be tied at the back. This works well for adjustable sizing.
6. Secure the Flowers
   • For added security, use a hot glue gun to reinforce any flowers or greenery that may be loose.
7. Try It On and Adjust
   • Once your crown is complete, try it on and adjust the fit if necessary. Gently bend the wire to make the crown sit comfortably on your head.

5. Caring for Your Dried Flower Crown

Dried flower crowns are relatively low-maintenance, but with proper care, they can last for months or even years.

• Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Dried flowers are susceptible to moisture, so keep your crown in a cool, dry place when not in use. Avoid humid areas like bathrooms or kitchens.
• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the colors of dried flowers to fade. To preserve the vibrant hues of your flower crown, store it away from direct sunlight when it’s not in use.
• Handle with Care: Dried flowers are more fragile than fresh ones, so be gentle when handling or adjusting your crown. To keep the crown’s shape, store it in a box or hang it on a hook rather than laying it flat where it might get squished.
• Dust Regularly: Over time, dust may accumulate on your dried flower crown. Use a soft brush or a hairdryer on a cool, low setting to remove any dust and keep your crown looking fresh.
• Repairs: If any flowers become loose or damaged, you can easily reattach them with floral tape or a dab of hot glue. This allows you to maintain the crown’s appearance over time.

6. Using Dried Flower Crowns Beyond Festivals and Weddings

While dried flower crowns are popular for festivals and weddings, their beauty and versatility make them suitable for other occasions and purposes as well.

a. Photoshoots

Dried flower crowns are perfect for photoshoots, whether it’s for bridal portraits, engagement sessions, or maternity photos. They add a natural, whimsical touch that can enhance the overall aesthetic of the shoot.

b. Bridal Showers or Baby Showers

Incorporate dried flower crowns into pre-wedding or pre-baby events. They can be worn by the bride-to-be or mom-to-be, and even given as fun accessories for the guests. They add a festive and charming touch to celebrations and create great photo opportunities.

c. Home Decor

When not being worn, dried flower crowns can double as home decor. Hang them on a wall, display them on a shelf, or place them around the base of a candle or vase as part of a decorative arrangement. They’ll add a rustic, nature-inspired element to your space.

d. Gift for Loved Ones

A handmade dried flower crown can make a thoughtful gift for a friend or loved one, especially for those who appreciate nature and handmade items. Personalize the crown to their favorite colors or flowers for an extra special touch.

7. Incorporating Dried Flower Crowns in Different Cultural Traditions

Many cultures have traditions involving floral headpieces, and dried flower crowns can be used to incorporate these customs in modern celebrations.

• Bohemian Weddings: Dried flower crowns are popular in boho-themed weddings, which often draw inspiration from nature and emphasize a relaxed, free-spirited vibe.
• Pagan and Wiccan Rituals: Flower crowns have historically been worn in pagan ceremonies, symbolizing fertility, life, and the natural world. A dried flower crown can be a beautiful way to honor these traditions during solstice celebrations or other rituals.
• Mexican Flower Crowns: Large, colorful flower crowns are a staple of traditional Mexican celebrations, such as Día de los Muertos. Incorporating dried marigolds, roses, or sunflowers into the crown can be a unique way to blend modern and traditional elements.

Conclusion

Dried flower crowns offer a beautiful, sustainable, and long-lasting alternative to fresh floral crowns. Whether worn at festivals, weddings, or special events, these crowns can be customized to suit any style or theme, making them a versatile accessory. The various types of dried flowers available, from lavender to pampas grass, allow for endless creativity, while the durability of dried blooms ensures that your crown can be worn multiple times or preserved as a keepsake. With the right care, your dried flower crown can serve as a stunning accessory and decorative piece that brings the beauty of nature into your life year-round.