Franklin Dean
Bustling a wedding dress is the 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 the bride can walk freely without tripping. While buttons and loops are the most common fastening tools for bustles, safety pins can be used as backup fasteners in case of emergencies. However, some sources advise against using safety pins as the sole method of bustling, as they may not be sturdy enough to hold the weight of the dress for an extended period. Brides should consult with a professional seamstress to determine the best bustling method for their dress and practice bustling the dress before the wedding day.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose of bustling a wedding dress | To alter a bridal gown to function as if it had no train |
| Who can bustle a wedding dress | The bride, maid of honor, a bridesmaid, the bride's mother, or mother-in-law |
| When to bustle a wedding dress | Brides typically bustle their dresses after the ceremony and before the reception |
| Types of wedding dress bustles | American, French, Ballroom |
| Tools required for bustling | Buttons, loops, hooks, ribbons, thread, needle, safety pins |
| Safety pins as a bustling tool | Safety pins can be used as a quick fix or backup fasteners in case of emergencies |
| Risks of using safety pins | Safety pins may not be sturdy enough to hold the weight of the dress for a long time and may leave tears or holes in the dress |
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What You'll Learn
Safety pins as a quick fix
Safety pins can be used as a quick fix to bustle a wedding dress. While buttons and loops are the most common fastening tools for bustles, safety pins can serve as backup fasteners in case of emergencies. If a bustle breaks on your wedding day, safety pins can be used to secure the dress. It is important to note that safety pins may not be sturdy enough to hold the weight of the dress for a long time, and there is a risk of the dress tearing or the pins coming loose. However, in the short term, they can be an effective solution to a last-minute issue.
To use safety pins for bustling a wedding dress, identify the points where the fabric will be lifted and secured. Place a safety pin on the back of the dress at the desired height, usually around a foot above the bride's knees. Thread a needle and knot the end of the thread, then thread it through the underside of the dress. Secure the safety pin by running the needle and thread through the fabric and making a few knots. If desired, a button can also be attached over the safety pin for added security.
Another option for using safety pins is in conjunction with buttons and loops. In this method, the safety pins are used to secure the loops to the buttons, creating a stronger hold. The loops can be made with strong thread, and the safety pins provide an extra layer of security. This can be particularly useful for heavier fabrics or dresses with a lot of fabric, as it ensures the bustle can withstand the weight of the train.
When using safety pins to bustle a wedding dress, it is important to have a backup plan in case the pins do come loose. It is also a good idea to practice with the safety pins before the wedding day to ensure they are effective and do not damage the dress. While safety pins can be a quick fix, it is always best to consult a professional seamstress or tailor for more permanent solutions. They can guide you on the best bustling method for your specific dress and ensure that it is secure and functional.
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The American bustle
To create an American bustle, you will need to identify the points where the fabric will be lifted and secured. These are typically three to five evenly spaced points along the waistline or directly below. You can attach ribbons, buttons, or hooks at these points to secure the train. It is recommended to practice the bustling process before the wedding day to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.
While safety pins can be used as a quick fix if the bustle comes undone during the wedding, they are not recommended as a long-term solution. Safety pins may not be sturdy enough to hold the weight of the dress for an extended period, and there is a risk of tearing or leaving holes in the fabric. Instead, it is best to seek the help of a professional seamstress or alteration specialist to attach buttons, hooks, or ribbons securely.
If you decide to use safety pins, be sure to have a mini emergency kit on hand during the wedding. This kit should include safety pins, a sewing kit, and clear tape for quick repairs. It is also essential to be patient and careful when moving around or using the restroom to avoid putting stress on the bustle points.
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The French bustle
To create a French bustle with safety pins, you will need:
- A wedding dress with a train
- Safety pins
- Measuring tape
- A dress form or a helper
- Put the dress inside out on a dress form, ensuring the train is flat and extended. If the dress has beadwork, cover the dress form with a sheet to protect it.
- Find the centre seam of the train, which should be at the longest point.
- Measure from the centre seam to the hem of the train to determine the desired length of the bustle.
- Mark this length on the centre seam near the buttocks area with a straight pin.
- Place another pin at the bottom of this measurement, ensuring both pins are on the centre seam. These pins will mark the centre and the biggest pouf of the bustle. Adjust the pins up or down to achieve your desired pouf height while maintaining the same measurement between them.
- Separate the lining from the dress at an unnoticeable place, such as the bottom of the zipper or corset.
- Sew ribbons to the dress, creating loops or bows that can be tied together to secure the bustle. You can also use safety pins to attach the ribbons to the dress for a quicker method.
- Practice the bustling process before the wedding day to ensure it is secure and to familiarise the designated bustler with the steps.
Remember, the French bustle can be time-consuming and intricate, so it is essential to give yourself enough time and practice to create the desired look.
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The Ballroom bustle
To create a ballroom bustle, start by measuring the centre back seam of the train from the waist to the floor. Then, measure the distance from the edge of the train to the base of the dress. Mark the place between these two distances with a pin. Lift the centre back seam where you made the pin mark and position it against the centre of the waistline, at the base of the bodice. Adjust the fold so that the train is just off the floor. Pin the train to the waistline seam, lifting the sides of the train off the floor and folding and pinning along each side of the back seam. Continue this process to lift the remaining train off the floor.
If you are using safety pins, place a pin a foot above the bride's knees on the back of the dress. Thread a needle and knot the end of the thread. Thread the needle through the underside of the dress and attach a button. Stitch the button securely, running the needle and thread through the fabric to the other side. Make two knots and cut off any excess thread.
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Finding a seamstress
Ask for Recommendations
Start by asking for recommendations from friends, family, or even local fabric stores. Word-of-mouth referrals can be a great way to find trusted and skilled seamstresses in your area. Don't hesitate to ask around and gather suggestions from multiple sources.
Online Search and Reviews
Take advantage of online resources such as Yelp, Thumbtack, and Airtasker. These platforms often provide lists of local seamstresses, along with customer reviews and ratings. Reading reviews can give you insights into the quality of their work, customer satisfaction, and whether they have experience with wedding dresses.
Craft Fairs and Local Communities
Visit craft fairs and local community events where people sell sewn items or participate in sewing-related activities. You can interact with potential seamstresses directly, discuss your requirements, and gauge their skills and expertise. Additionally, consider checking local subreddits, as suggested by a user on Reddit, where you might find recommendations or even individuals offering their services.
Contact Multiple Seamstresses
Get in touch with several seamstresses to increase your chances of finding the right one. Discuss your specific requirements, such as bustling a wedding dress with safety pins, and ask for their portfolio or examples of similar work they've done. This will help you evaluate their skills and ensure they have experience with the type of alterations you need.
Price Estimates and Timelines
Before finalising a seamstress, be sure to ask for price quotes and estimated timelines. The cost and duration of alterations can vary depending on the complexity of the task and the fabric of your wedding dress. Getting estimates from multiple seamstresses will help you make an informed decision and choose someone who fits your budget and timeline.
Remember, taking the time to find a skilled and experienced seamstress will ensure that your wedding dress is altered beautifully and securely, making you look and feel your best on your special day.
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Frequently asked questions
A wedding dress bustle is a way of altering a bridal gown to make it look like it has no train. This is done by fastening the train to the rest of the dress so that the bride can walk freely without tripping over her dress.
The five most common types of wedding dress bustles are American, French, Ballroom, Empire, and Cage. American bustles involve lifting the train and securing it with hooks or buttons at the waistline. French bustles, also known as under-bustles, tuck the train under the fabric and are fastened with ties, creating a pouf effect. Ballroom bustles, also known as over-bustles, fold the train into the skirt for a seamless look. Empire bustles are created by gathering the train and securing it at the waist with a ribbon or cord, while cage bustles use a series of hoops to lift the train and create a more structured shape.
The type of bustle you choose will depend on the design of your dress and your personal preference. Consider the structure and fabric of your dress, as heavier or more intricate fabrics may require a stronger bustle. You should also think about the overall aesthetic of your wedding and how the bustle will complement the look and feel of the day. Consult with a professional seamstress or your bridal boutique to determine the best method for your dress.
While safety pins are not recommended as a primary fastening method for a wedding dress bustle due to the risk of tearing or falling out, they can be used as a backup or quick fix in case of emergencies. To use safety pins, first identify the points where the fabric will be lifted and secured. Place a safety pin on the back of the dress at one of these points and attach a button or hook to the safety pin by sewing it on with a needle and thread. Repeat this process at each of the identified points, then fasten the train to the buttons or hooks to create the bustle.
