Deborah Chan
Adding a bustle to your wedding dress is a great way to prevent tripping over your dress and to allow you to move around and dance freely after the ceremony. A bustle pulls the back of the dress off the ground and fastens the train to the rest of the dress. There are several types of bustles, including the American, French, Austrian, and wrist bustle, each with a different look and level of complexity. The process of adding a bustle typically involves sewing buttons, ribbons, hooks, loops, or a wristlet onto the back of the gown, which can be done by a professional seamstress or by yourself with the right materials and knowledge. The cost of adding a bustle can range from $75 to $400, depending on the type of gown and the number of attachment points required.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To prevent the back of the dress from getting soiled, allowing the bride to move around with ease and alleviating the fear of tripping over a long train. |
| Installation | A bustle is typically added by a seamstress or tailor after purchasing the gown. It involves adding buttons, ribbons, hooks, loops, or a wristlet to the back of the gown to attach and lift the train. |
| Types | American, French, Austrian, Royal/Victorian, Ballroom, Train-Flip, Wrist, and Overbustle. |
| Cost | The cost of adding a bustle ranges from $75 to $400, depending on the complexity and the type of gown. |
| Complexity | Adding a bustle is a complex process that requires expertise in sewing and alterations. It is recommended to have someone help with bustling the dress on the wedding day. |
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What You'll Learn
- Choosing a bustle style: French, American, Austrian, Ballroom, Train-Flip, or Royal/Victorian
- Hiring a seamstress or tailor with bustle experience
- Having a bridal party member learn how to execute the bustle
- Preparing an emergency kit with safety pins, a needle and thread, or fishing line
- Bustling yourself by sewing a loop with a safety pin halfway up the train
Choosing a bustle style: French, American, Austrian, Ballroom, Train-Flip, or Royal/Victorian
When choosing a bustle style, it's important to consider the silhouette of the gown, the amount of fabric, and how you plan to wear your dress. Here are some popular bustle styles to choose from:
French Bustle
Also known as the under-bustle, this style is the opposite of the American bustle. The train folds under itself instead of over, creating an understated, two-layer hem that adds design to the back. This style is ideal for those who want to preserve the original look of their dress, as it completely hides the train without changing its appearance. To achieve this look, the seamstress adds colour-coordinated ribbons or numbers underneath the gown.
American Bustle
Also known as the over-bustle, this traditional style is created by lifting the outside of the train and securing it over the back of the gown at the waistline. This style may be used interchangeably with the traditional bustle. The fabric folds over, creating elegant pleats at the waist. Loops or hooks are added along the waistline to fasten the train, resulting in a uniformed hemline.
Ballroom Bustle
The ballroom bustle is a flattering style that works with most dress silhouettes. Similar to the French bustle, it completely hides the train without altering the look of the dress. This style is achieved by adding several points under the dress for the train to attach to, resulting in a seamless, floor-length gown.
Royal/Victorian Bustle
This style can be simple or elaborate, depending on the desired look. A singular pickup point requires one hook and eyelet to lift the train, while multiple pickup points can be added down and across the back for a more dramatic effect. The folds add dimension to the silhouette and are perfect for gowns with a statement bow or sash in the back.
Austrian Bustle
An Austrian bustle can be achieved by sewing metal eyes or ribbons along the back and princess seam lines, creating tufts or draping effects. This style can be modified to suit the bride's preferences and the specific dress.
Train-Flip Bustle
Also known as the ballroom/flip under bustle, this style is ideal for those who want to minimise the appearance of a bustle. The hem is flipped under the skirt and secured at the bottom, creating a sleek look. This option may be more expensive and less commonly performed by seamstresses.
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Hiring a seamstress or tailor with bustle experience
Adding a bustle to your wedding dress is a custom alteration that can range in price from $75 to $400, not including other bridal adjustments. Each button, hook, loop, and ribbon is sewn in by hand, so the more complex the layout, the more time and energy are required from your seamstress or tailor. Bustles are not only complicated to create, but they are also complicated to execute. You will need assistance bustling your dress on your wedding day, and the more intricate your bustle, the more help you will need.
When hiring a seamstress or tailor with bustle experience, it is important to consult a professional who can guide you on the best bustle option for your dress and demonstrate how to secure it properly. The bridal boutique where you purchased your dress may be able to recommend an experienced seamstress, or you can ask any recent brides you know for a referral. You can also use online resources to find a reputable seamstress or tailor in your area, such as The Knot Marketplace.
It is recommended that brides go for their first fitting consultation about 2-3 months before their wedding. This allows time to alter the wedding dress, review bustle options, and ensure a perfect fit. During your first fitting, your seamstress or tailor will assess your gown's fabric, design, and train length to determine the most suitable bustle style. They will also discuss the different types of bustles with you and help you choose the best option for your particular dress.
When hiring a seamstress or tailor with bustle experience, it is important to consider the cost of alterations, which can vary depending on the seamstress or tailor you choose. Experienced seamstresses or tailors with a stellar reputation in the bridal industry may charge higher fees for their expertise. If you are on a tight schedule, rush fees may also apply. It is important to do your research and read reviews to find a seamstress or tailor who delivers exceptional results at a fair price.
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Having a bridal party member learn how to execute the bustle
It is important to have a bridal party member learn how to execute the bustle, as the bride will need help bustling her dress from behind. This task is usually assigned to a bridesmaid, the maid of honour, or another member of the bridal party. The designated bustler should attend the final alterations appointment with the bride to get hands-on practice before the wedding day. They can also attend dress fittings to learn how to properly bustle the dress.
The bridal boutique where the bride purchases her dress can help her find an experienced seamstress to add the bustle. The seamstress will be able to advise on the best type of bustle for the style of the dress. The bustle can be added with a series of hooks, buttons, loops, eyelets, or ribbons that lift up and secure the train. The more buttons, hooks, loops, and ribbons there are, the more time and energy are required by the seamstress, and the more expensive it will be.
There are several types of bustles to choose from, including the American, Ballroom, French, Royal, Bow, Austrian, and Wrist bustle. The American bustle, also known as an over-bustle, is created by attaching the midpoint of the train to a button on the upper part of the back of the skirt. The Royal bustle can be simple or elaborate, with one or multiple pickup points. The Ballroom bustle is flattering for most dress silhouettes as it completely hides the train without changing the look of the dress. The Austrian bustle is created with a series of ribbons sewn on the inside of the dress, while the Wrist bustle features a simple loop added to the end of the train and worn around the bride's wrist.
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Preparing an emergency kit with safety pins, a needle and thread, or fishing line
A wedding dress bustle is a great way to prevent the back of your dress from getting soiled and to allow the bride to move around with ease. There are several types of bustles to choose from, each with its own unique look and functionality. Whether it's the classic French and American bustles or the less common Austrian bustle, a bustle can add a touch of elegance and drama to the silhouette of the dress.
To ensure your special day goes smoothly, it is important to be prepared for any wardrobe malfunctions. Creating an emergency kit with essential items such as safety pins, needles, and thread is a great way to stay ready for any unforeseen events. Here are some detailed instructions to help you prepare an emergency kit:
- Safety Pins: Safety pins are versatile tools that can quickly fix a broken zipper, secure loose straps, or temporarily mend a torn hem. They are easy to use and can hold fabrics together, providing a quick solution to potential wardrobe malfunctions.
- Needles and Thread: Including a small sewing kit with needles and threads that match your wedding dress and bridal party outfits is essential. This will allow you to stitch minor rips or snags discreetly. Having a needle and thread on hand can be a lifesaver if you need to re-attach a button, bead, or sequin.
- Fishing Line: Although not commonly listed, a clear fishing line can be a useful alternative to a thread. Its strength and invisibility make it ideal for quick fixes, especially if you need to secure heavy fabrics or intricate details.
Preparing an emergency kit with these items will ensure that you are ready to address any issues that may arise with your wedding dress. It is also beneficial to assign someone to help you with bustling your dress, such as your maid of honor or another member of the bridal party. They can learn how to properly bustle your dress by attending your dress fittings.
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Bustling yourself by sewing a loop with a safety pin halfway up the train
Adding a bustle to your wedding dress is important to keep the back of the dress off the ground and prevent it from getting soiled. It also allows the bride to move around with ease and alleviates the fear of tripping over a long train. While there are several ways to add a bustle to your wedding dress, sewing a loop with a safety pin halfway up the train is one of the simplest and cheapest ways to do so. Here's a step-by-step guide:
First, put on the wedding dress or have someone help you by putting it on a dress form that is the same height as you. Find the middle back of the waist of the dress and mark that spot with a straight pin. Next, lift and pinch a small spot of fabric about halfway up the train and bring it up to the straight pin. Adjust the train until you achieve the desired drape and length, and mark this spot with another straight pin.
Now, it's time to sew the loop and button. Remove the first pin at the waist of the dress and sew a covered button there. At the marked spot on the train, sew a loop of matching ribbon about one inch in length. Make sure to use strong thread and knot the ends together. You can also add a small piece of interfacing on the topside of the train for extra support.
Finally, bustle the dress. Put the dress back on and grasp the loop of ribbon, bringing it up and attaching it to the button. Check that the train is falling as desired and adjust the folds of fabric to create a fuller and more voluminous bustle. If you prefer, you can also sew the button onto the waist of the dress and the loop onto the train.
This method of bustling is simple and effective, but it may not be suitable for heavier dresses. It is important to consider the weight and length of your dress when choosing a bustling method. Additionally, keep in mind that bustling your own gown can be a way to cut costs, but it is a delicate process that requires precision and attention to detail.
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Frequently asked questions
A bustle is a process of altering a bridal gown to function as if it had no train. It pulls the back of the dress off the ground so the bride can move around after the ceremony without the fear of tripping over a long train.
A bustle adds to your comfort and mobility. It allows you to move around and dance freely without worrying about guests stepping on your dress or tripping over a long train.
You will normally bustle your skirt between the wedding and reception. It is added after you purchase the gown.
Adding a bustle can cost anywhere between \$75 to $400 on average, depending on the type of gown and the number of bustle points.
Adding a bustle to your wedding dress isn't a simple task, so it is best to leave it to a professional seamstress. However, if you're handy with a needle and thread, you can sew a loop by placing a safety pin on the back of the dress and halfway up the length of the train. Thread the needle, insert it into the underside of the dress, and pull the thread through to make a small stitch. Grab the loop and pull the remaining thread through to create a knot.
