Deborah Chan
A wedding dress bustle is a process of altering a bridal gown to function as if it had no train. This is done by fastening the train to the rest of the dress so that a bride can walk freely without tripping over her ensemble throughout the night. The cost of bustling a wedding dress depends on the type of bustle and the number of bustle points. Simple bustles are more affordable, while intricate bustles with multiple points will be priced higher. On average, a bustle ranges between $75 and $250, but prices can go up to $400.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To secure the extra fabric from the bottom of the gown to prevent it from dragging on the ground and allow the wearer to move around with ease |
| Types | American/Over, French, Ballroom, and Under |
| Cost | Between $75 and $250 on average, depending on the number of bustle points and the complexity of the bustle |
| Where to get it done | A skilled seamstress can add a bustle to a wedding dress |
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What You'll Learn
Average cost of bustling a wedding dress
The cost of bustling a wedding dress depends on several factors, including the number of bustle points, the type of bustle, and the complexity of the design. On average, adding a bustle to a wedding dress ranges from $75 to $250. However, prices can vary depending on the specific circumstances.
The type of bustle chosen plays a significant role in determining the final cost. Common types of bustles include the American bustle, also known as an over bustle, which involves scattering hooks throughout the waistline of the dress to lift and hook the train over the gown. This style can have varying numbers of bustle points, with more points creating a more dramatic look. Another type is the French bustle, where the train is tucked underneath the skirt to create a billowing effect, resulting in a fuller back. This style is better suited for dresses with a large amount of fabric.
The number of bustle points is another critical factor influencing the cost. Some dresses may require as few as three bustle points, while others might need eleven or more. The cost per point can vary, with some seamstresses charging $25 for the first point and $15 for each additional point.
It's important to note that the cost of bustling a wedding dress may also depend on the region and the seamstress's expertise. Prices can vary significantly between different areas, with some locations offering more affordable options. Additionally, the complexity of the dress design and any additional alterations needed can impact the overall cost.
To ensure a seamless bustling process, it is recommended to consult with a skilled seamstress who can guide you in choosing the most suitable bustle style for your wedding gown. They will consider factors such as the silhouette of the gown, the amount of fabric, and your desired look. By trusting their expertise and delegating the task to a designated person, you can confidently move around and enjoy your special day.
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Cost depending on fabric/gown type
The cost of bustling a wedding dress depends on the type of dress, the number of layers, and the number of bustles. Simple dresses with one layer and one bustle can cost around $30, while more complex dresses with multiple layers and bustles can cost up to $175 or more. The type of bustle chosen also affects the price, with simple bustles starting at $35 and intricate ones costing up to $250.
The American bustle, also known as an over-bustle, is a popular choice for its simplicity and dramatic effect. It involves lifting the outside of the train and securing it over the back of the gown to the waistline, creating a cascading feel. This style is suitable for a wide range of silhouettes and can be as simple as one loop and one button.
The French bustle, or French bouffe, is another common type. It is created by folding the fabric up and over the back of the dress and securing it with hooks or buttons. This bustle is often chosen for gowns with a lot of fabric or for those who want a more dramatic look.
The Victorian bustle is an elegant and vintage option that gathers the train and affixes it to multiple bustle points on the back of the dress. This style adds a touch of drama and flair to the wedding gown.
The cost of bustling a wedding dress can also depend on the fabric and the level of detail involved in the alterations. For example, straps that are heavily embellished or made of lace may increase the price of alterations. Additionally, gowns with multiple pieces or complex changes can result in higher costs.
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Cost depending on number of bustle points
The cost of bustling a wedding dress depends on several factors, including the number of bustle points, the type of bustle, and the complexity of the dress fabric and design.
The number of bustle points can range from one to five or more, and each point typically requires a hook, tie, or button to secure the train to the rest of the dress. The more bustle points, the more secure the train will be, but this will also increase the cost. For example, an American bustle can have one, three, or five bustle points, with more points creating an ultra-dramatic look.
The type of bustle will also impact the cost. A simple bustle, such as a royal bustle with a single pickup point, may only require one hook and eyelet, while a more elaborate bustle, such as a ballroom or French bustle, will have multiple pickup points and be more expensive.
Additionally, the fabric and design of the dress can affect the cost of bustling. Dresses with embellished or lace straps, for example, may be more expensive to bustle due to the complexity of working with these materials.
On average, the cost of adding a bustle to a wedding dress ranges from $75 to $250, but prices can vary depending on the specific dress and the number of bustle points required. For example, one person reported paying $30 for a five-point bustle, while another paid $125 for an 11-point bustle.
It's important to consult with a skilled seamstress who can recommend the best type of bustle for your dress and provide an accurate estimate of the cost based on the number of bustle points needed.
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Cost depending on location
The cost of bustling a wedding dress depends on the location, the type of bustle, and the number of bustle points. On average, the cost of adding a bustle to a wedding dress ranges from $75 to $250.
In high-cost-of-living areas, such as New York City, the price of bustling a wedding dress can be higher, with some brides reporting costs of $150 to $175 for a 5-point bustle and $250 for a French bustle with 7 points. In San Diego, a 6-point bustle can cost under $100.
On the other hand, in low-cost-of-living areas, bustling services can be more affordable. One bride mentioned that her bustling cost less than $100, while another reported a cost of $125 for an 11-point bustle.
It's worth noting that some seamstresses may charge a flat rate for alterations, which can include taking in or letting out the dress, hemming, and bustling. Additionally, the cost of bustling may also depend on the complexity of the bustle and the number of points required. Simple bustles are typically more affordable, while intricate bustles with multiple points will be priced higher.
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Types of wedding dress bustles
The cost of bustling a wedding dress ranges from \$75 to \$250 on average, but can cost as little as \$35. The price will depend on how many bustle points and what type of bustle you need.
- American Bustle / 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 pick-up points for an ultra-dramatic look.
- Ballroom Bustle: Multiple bustle points are sewn around the bodice, allowing the fabric to fold into itself delicately. This bustle style gives the illusion that the bride changed into a shorter dress.
- Royal Bustle: This bustle involves gathering the train and affixing it to the dress at several points, creating dramatic folds that add instant visual interest to any wedding gown.
- French Bustle / Under Bustle: This bustle is perfect for lace and satin gowns, as it is simple and sweet. It is a great option if most of the gown's embellishments are situated near the waist.
- Traditional Bustle: This classic style is one of the most popular among brides. To achieve this look, the outside of the train is secured near the waistline, forming a cascading effect.
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Frequently asked questions
A wedding dress bustle is a process of altering a bridal gown to function as if it had no train. This is done by fastening the train to the rest of the dress so that a bride can walk freely without tripping over her ensemble throughout the night.
The cost of bustling a wedding dress depends on the type of bustle and how many bustle points are needed. On average, a simple bustle ranges between $75 and $250.
Some common types of wedding dress bustles include the American bustle, French bustle, and Ballroom bustle. The American bustle has hooks scattered throughout the waistline of the dress, allowing the train to be lifted and hooked over the top of the gown. The French bustle involves tucking the train underneath the skirt to create a billowing effect, giving the back of the gown more fullness. The Ballroom bustle has multiple bustle points sewn around the bodice, allowing the fabric to fold into itself delicately.
It is recommended to consult with a seamstress during your wedding dress alteration appointment to determine the best type of bustle for your gown. The seamstress will sew the necessary hooks, ties, or buttons onto the back of your dress to create the desired bustle effect. It is also suggested to have a designated person, such as a bridesmaid or family member, attend your final alterations appointment to learn how to properly bustle the train before the wedding day.
Yes, some alternatives to consider are online purchasing or choosing a dress that is short or tea-length, which may not require a bustle. Additionally, some brides opt to have a higher shoe height to avoid the need for a hem or other alterations.
