George Boyle
A wedding dress bustle is a series of hooks, buttons, or ribbons used to lift and secure the train of a wedding dress, allowing the bride to move more freely and comfortably during the reception. It is important to consult with a skilled seamstress and consider various factors such as dress style, fabric, and personal preferences before deciding whether to add a bustle to your wedding dress. While some brides opt for a wrist loop as an alternative to a bustle, this may not be the most comfortable option, especially when greeting guests. Ultimately, the decision to add a bustle to a wedding dress depends on the bride's personal preference and the style of the dress.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To secure the train of a wedding dress off the ground so it doesn't get dirty or cause tripping |
| Necessity | Not mandatory; most wedding dresses don't come with a bustle |
| Types | Royal/Victorian, Bow, Over, Under |
| Alternatives | Wrist loops, shorter reception dresses |
| Considerations | Dress style, fabric, personal preference |
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What You'll Learn
Wedding dresses don't usually come with bustles
A bustle is a series of hooks, buttons, or ribbons used to lift and secure the train of a wedding dress, allowing the bride to move more freely and comfortably during the reception. Bustles are particularly useful for gowns with long trains, as they prevent the train from dragging on the ground and getting dirty, or getting in the way while the bride dances.
If you want to add a bustle to your wedding dress, you should talk to your seamstress about the best options for your dress and your reception. The effectiveness of bustling depends on the dress's style and fabric, so it's important to consult a skilled seamstress and consider your personal preferences before making a decision.
While bustles can be a great way to keep your train off the ground, they are not mandatory. There are other alternatives to consider, such as wrist loops, which have become increasingly popular. However, some brides who have used wrist loops have found that carrying the train of their dress on their arm can be uncomfortable and restrictive. Ultimately, the decision to add a bustle to your wedding dress depends on your specific needs and preferences.
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Brides can choose from a variety of bustle styles
Wedding dresses typically do not come with a bustle, nor are they designed with one in mind. However, brides often choose to add a bustle to their gowns, as it helps secure the fabric of the train, giving them freedom of movement. There are several bustle styles to choose from, and the right one for you will depend on your dress and personal preference.
One popular style is the American bustle, also known as the over bustle. This style has several hooks scattered throughout the waistline of the dress, enabling the train to be lifted and hooked over the top of the gown. It can have one, three, or even five bustle pickup points for an ultra-dramatic look.
Another option is the ballroom bustle, which gives the illusion of no bustle at all. With this style, the train of the dress flips under the fabric and is pinned into itself, giving the illusion of a floor-length gown with an even fuller bottom.
The French bustle, also known as the Victorian or underbustle, is another popular choice. This style favours gowns with a more natural waistline, and the hooks pick up the train of the gown as it tucks under the silhouette. Ribbons can be attached to connect and secure the fabric, and multiple pickup points can be added for extra flair.
The royal bustle, also known as the Victorian bustle, is another option that can be simple or elaborate. This style has one pickup point with a single hook and eyelet to lift the train, or multiple pickup points can be added for a more dramatic look.
Finally, the English bustle, also known as the English pickup bustle, works best for gowns with long trains but a more tailored silhouette near the hips. This style picks up the train and attaches it to the outside of the dress.
These are just a few of the many bustle styles available to brides. It's important to consider the style of your dress and your desired look when choosing a bustle, as well as the functionality and ease of movement it provides.
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Wrist loops are a popular alternative to bustles
Wedding dresses with trains can be bustled to keep the train off the floor, making it easier for the wearer to move around and alleviating the fear of tripping or tearing the gown. However, many brides are not fans of the look of a bustled dress, and some opt for alternatives. One such alternative is a wrist loop, which has gained popularity in recent years.
Wrist loops are fabric loops sewn onto the back of a wedding dress, allowing the wearer to carry the train of the dress on their arm. While they are intended for hanging the dress on a hanger to prevent wrinkling, some brides have taken to using them to carry their trains, especially when walking down the aisle, taking photos, or cutting the cake. This gives them a "Cinderella" look, which some brides find appealing.
However, wrist loops are not without their drawbacks. As bridal stylist Nayri Kalayjian points out, "it's hard to hug and greet guests with heavy fabric hanging from your arm." The weight of the train can also be uncomfortable for the wearer, especially over several hours. Additionally, wrist loops may not be suitable for heavier trains made of fabric like heavy beading, and are more realistic for trains made of lightweight fabric like satin or chiffon.
Ultimately, the decision to use a wrist loop or a bustle comes down to personal preference. While some brides prefer the look of a wrist loop, others find it uncomfortable and prefer the practicality of a bustle. Some brides even opt for a second, shorter dress for the reception to avoid the hassle of bustling their dress.
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Brides should practice movements like dancing in their bustles
Brides should be aware that a wedding dress with a train will likely require a bustle to allow for ease of movement and comfort throughout the reception. While some brides opt to leave their train flowing for the first dance, this can be uncomfortable and cumbersome, and many brides worry about tripping over their dress or having it stepped on by guests.
A bustle is a way to secure the train of the wedding dress off the ground and into the back of the dress, and it can be done in a way that does not drastically alter the shape of the dress. There are many different types of bustles, including the royal or Victorian bustle, which adds drama and dimension to the silhouette, and the bow bustle, which allows the fabric to be folded above the gown and secured with ties hidden under a bow.
To ensure comfort and ease of movement, especially for dancing, it is important to choose a bustle that fits your body and the natural fall of the wedding dress. It is also a good idea to practice walking and moving in the bustled dress before the wedding day, as it can be tricky to pin and button the bustle, especially on a strapless dress. Enlisting the help of a maid of honour, bridesmaid, parent, or friend is recommended, and they should attend at least one fitting to learn how to bustle the dress.
If a bride is concerned about the look or feel of a bustle, there are alternative options to consider. A detachable train can provide two different looks and help reduce the weight of the dress during the reception. Another option is to change into a shorter dress for the reception, which eliminates the need for a bustle altogether. Ultimately, the decision to bustle or not to bustle depends on the bride's preference and the style of her dress, but practicing movements and dancing in the bustled dress is crucial to ensure comfort and confidence on the big day.
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Bustles are added during the alterations process
Wedding dresses rarely come with a bustle, and designers do not usually consider them when creating wedding dresses. Bustles are often added during the alterations process, depending on the style, length, and design of the dress. A seamstress or tailor will assess the gown and discuss the best bustle options with the wearer.
The wearer's preferences are essential, and the right bustle choice depends on the style and design of the dress. For example, an over bustle suits fuller skirts, while an under bustle complements fitted gowns. A royal bustle can be simple or elaborate, depending on the desired look. If the bride wants a singular pickup point, it only requires one hook and eyelet to lift the train. However, multiple pickup points can be added for more detail.
The effectiveness of bustling depends on the dress's style and fabric. Silk and lace may drape well when bustled, while heavier fabrics like satin might create bulk. Knowing these nuances can enhance the overall look.
It is recommended to schedule multiple fittings to perfect the bustling technique and become accustomed to the silhouette. Practising movements like walking, dancing, and sitting can also ensure comfort on the wedding day.
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Frequently asked questions
No, most wedding dresses do not come with a bustle.
A bustle is a series of hooks, buttons, or ribbons used to lift and secure the train of a wedding dress, allowing the bride to move more freely and comfortably during the reception.
A bustle prevents the train of your dress from dragging on the ground and getting dirty, or getting in the way while you dance. It also alleviates the fear of tripping or tearing the train of your gown.
Some alternatives to a bustle include wrist loops, changing into a shorter dress for the reception, or simply forgoing a bustle altogether.
The right bustle depends on the style and design of your dress. It's important to consult with a skilled seamstress and consider factors such as dress style, fabric, and personal preferences before making a decision.
