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A wedding dress bustle is an important addition to any gown with a train, allowing the bride to move around freely and protecting the train from damage. The bustle is not a physical product but a process of removing the train from the gown by attaching it to buttons, ribbons, hooks, or wristlets at the back of the dress. This process can be tricky, so it is best left to a professional seamstress who can create a bustle that complements the dress and the bride's height. Brides can choose from a variety of bustle styles, including the American, French, Ballroom, and Train-Flip, each offering a unique look and level of functionality.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To secure the train of a wedding dress to the back of the dress, allowing the wearer to move around freely and preventing the dress from getting soiled |
| Types | Over/American bustle, French bustle, Ballroom bustle, Train-flip bustle, Wrist bustle, One-point overbustle |
| Attachment methods | Buttons, ribbons, hooks, loops, ties |
| Installation | Custom-made and sewn by a skilled seamstress or alterations expert |
| Cost | $75–$250, depending on the type of gown |
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What You'll Learn
Why attach a bustle to your wedding dress?
A wedding dress is an important purchase, and you'll likely want to keep it in perfect condition. A bustle can help you do that by safeguarding your dress and its train from potential damage.
Firstly, a bustle will prevent your dress from getting soiled. Without one, your dress will drag along the floor, collecting dirt and stains. A bustle pulls the back of the dress off the ground, keeping it clean.
Secondly, a bustle will prevent your dress from getting damaged. Without one, your train could get snagged on branches and rocks, or trodden on by guests. A bustle keeps the train safely off the ground and out of harm's way.
Thirdly, a bustle will make your dress more comfortable to wear. It will give you the freedom to move around with ease, allowing you to dance and walk without tripping over your train.
Finally, a bustle can enhance the look of your dress. The ballroom bustle, for example, completely hides the train, creating the look of an untouched, floor-length gown. The American bustle, meanwhile, adds drama to the back of the dress by creating a cascading feel as the fabric folds flow over the skirt.
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Choosing the right bustle for your dress
Wedding dresses are often floor-length gowns with long trains, which can make it difficult for the bride to move around, especially on the dance floor. A bustle can help secure the fabric of the train, giving the bride freedom of movement.
There are several types of bustles, each serving the same purpose but looking slightly different. Here are some of the most common types of bustles and how they work:
American Bustle/Over Bustle
The American bustle, also known as the over bustle, is one of the most popular and simplest types of bustle. It involves attaching the midpoint of the train to a button on the upper part of the back of the skirt. This can be done with one point of connection for lighter dresses or multiple points for heavier fabric or longer trains. The train is hooked with a single hook or button along the centre seam in the back of the dress, creating a cascading effect. This style can have one, three, or even five bustle pickup points for added drama.
Ballroom Bustle
The ballroom bustle is suitable for most dress silhouettes and is considered very flattering. It completely hides the train without changing the look of the dress, giving the illusion of an untouched, floor-length gown. This is achieved by adding multiple bustle points around the bodice, allowing the fabric to fold delicately into itself.
French Bustle/Under Bustle
The French bustle, also known as the under bustle, is the opposite of the American style. Instead of fastening the train over the skirt, it folds the train under itself, creating an understated two-layer hem that adds design to the back. This type of bustle often includes colour-coordinated ribbons or numbers underneath the gown.
When choosing a bustle, it is essential to consider the silhouette of the gown, the amount of fabric, and how you plan to wear your dress. Working with an experienced seamstress is crucial to ensure the bustle is tailored to fit your dress perfectly. They will be able to recommend the best type of bustle and make any necessary alterations.
Additionally, it is a good idea to assign a trusted individual, such as a bridesmaid or family member, to help with bustling your dress on the wedding day. They should attend your final alterations appointment to learn how to properly bustle the dress.
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How to attach a bustle to your wedding dress
Adding a bustle to your wedding dress is a great way to ensure you can move around freely and dance without worrying about tripping over your dress. It also helps to keep your dress in perfect condition by preventing the train from dragging on the ground and getting soiled.
Firstly, it's important to note that adding a bustle is not a simple task, and it's recommended to leave it to a professional seamstress who has experience with wedding dresses. The bustle should be custom-made to fit your dress and your height perfectly.
If you want to attempt it yourself, here is a general guide on how to attach a simple bustle:
- Decide on the type of bustle you want. The most common types are the American bustle (also known as the over bustle) and the French bustle (also known as the under bustle). The American bustle has the train hooked over the skirt, usually with a single hook or button, while the French bustle has the train folded underneath itself, creating a layered look.
- Prepare the necessary materials. You will need items such as buttons, hooks, loops, ribbons, or ties.
- Attach the hooks, buttons, or loops to the train and the corresponding points on the skirt or waistline of the dress. For an American bustle, you can attach a button or hook on the outside of the dress near the lower back, hiding it within the seams. For a French bustle, you can attach ties or ribbons to the underside of the skirt and train, keeping them concealed.
- Fasten the bustle by connecting the corresponding hooks, buttons, loops, or ties. Adjust the folds of fabric to create the desired look.
- Practice bustling and unbustling the dress. It is recommended to have someone help you with this, especially if your dress has multiple bustle points.
Remember, the process may vary depending on the style of your dress and the type of bustle you choose. Always consult with a professional seamstress for guidance on the best bustle for your dream dress.
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$14.59
$19.99 $22.99
How to prepare for bustling your dress on your wedding day
Preparing for bustling your wedding dress is an important part of your big day. A bustle will save your dress from damage and stains and will also save you from tripping on your train. Here are some steps to follow to prepare for bustling your dress on your wedding day:
Firstly, decide on the type of bustle you want. The most common type is the over bustle, or American bustle, where the train is fastened over the skirt. This can be done with one point of connection for lighter dresses or multiple points for a heavier fabric or longer train. Another option is the French bustle, or under-bustle, where the train folds under itself, creating an understated two-layer hem.
Next, you should enlist the help of your maid of honour, a bridesmaid, your mother, or your mother-in-law to bustle your gown on the day. It is important that whoever is tasked with this job attends your final fitting so they can learn how to alter your dress from your seamstress. It is also a good idea to watch video tutorials to familiarise yourself with the different types of bustles and how to achieve them.
Finally, make sure you have given yourself enough time between the ceremony and reception to bustle your dress. Plan when and where you will do it, and ensure your designated helper is there to assist.
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How to attach different types of bustles
Wedding dress bustles are an important part of any gown with a train, as they help to secure the fabric of the train, giving the bride freedom of movement and preventing the dress from getting soiled. There are several types of bustles, each with a different method of attachment. Here are some of the most common types of bustles and how they are attached:
Over Bustle/American Bustle
The over bustle, also known as the American bustle, is one of the simplest and most popular types of bustles. It is created by attaching the midpoint of the train to a button on the upper part of the back of the skirt, on the outside of the dress. This can be done with a single point of connection or multiple points, depending on the weight of the fabric and the length of the train. The train is hooked with a single hook or button along the centre seam at the back of the dress.
French Bustle/Under Bustle
The French bustle, also known as the under bustle or Victorian bustle, is the opposite of the American bustle. Instead of fastening the fabric of the train over the skirt, it folds the train under itself. This type of bustle is ideal for gowns with embellishments near the waist, as it can obscure intricate details near the hemline. It often involves attaching ribbons or numbers underneath the gown to connect and secure the fabric.
Ballroom Bustle
The ballroom bustle is a flattering style that completely hides the train, giving the illusion of an untouched, floor-length gown. It achieves this by adding several points under the dress for the train to attach to, resulting in a seamless look.
Side Sling/Wrist Loop
The side sling, also known as the wrist loop, is a unique type of bustle that attaches the train to the wrist, allowing the bride to physically lift it. This option is simple to implement and is especially suitable for lightweight dresses with modest trains, as it can be cumbersome with heavier fabrics or full skirts.
It is important to note that creating a bustle can be complex, and it is recommended to seek the help of an experienced seamstress or alterations expert to ensure the bustle is properly attached and does not damage the dress.
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Frequently asked questions
A wedding dress bustle is a process of removing a train from a wedding gown. It is done by adding buttons, ribbons, hooks, or a wristlet to the back of the gown. This allows the bride to move around and dance freely without worrying about tripping over her dress.
A wedding dress bustle is important for several reasons. Firstly, it helps to secure the fabric of the train, making it easier for the bride to move around. Secondly, it protects the dress from potential damage, such as stains, snags, or tears, by keeping the train off the ground. Lastly, it enhances the overall look of the dress by adding a dramatic or elegant touch to the back.
Attaching a wedding dress bustle is a skilled task often left to professional seamstresses or alterations experts. It involves sewing loops, buttons, hooks, or ribbons to the back of the dress, depending on the type of bustle and dress. The bustle is then fastened to these attachments, lifting the train off the ground. It is recommended to have someone help with bustling the dress, especially if it has multiple ties or pick-up points.
