Franklin Dean
A bustle wedding dress is a bridal gown that has been altered to function as if it had no train. This is achieved by fastening the train to the rest of the dress, allowing the bride to walk and dance freely without tripping over her dress. A bustle can be added to any floor-length dress, not just large ball gowns, to create a shorter hemline. There are several types of bustles to choose from, including the American bustle (or over-bustle), the ballroom bustle, and the French bustle. The addition of a bustle to a wedding dress can help to create a unique look and feel, adding drama and flair to the bride's ensemble.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | To bustle a wedding dress is to alter a bridal gown to function as if it had no train. |
| Purpose | To allow the bride to walk freely without tripping over the train. |
| Types | American/over bustle, traditional bustle, ballroom bustle, French bustle |
| Who does it? | Seamstress, bridal stylist, or a loved one who has learned how to do it |
| When to do it | Before the reception, during the ceremony, or after photos |
| What to keep on hand | Safety pins, a sewing needle, and a clear fishing line |
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What You'll Learn
When to bustle your dress
A bustle is a series of loops and buttons that turn a bridal gown with a train into a manageable maxi dress. It allows you to tie up your train to be even with your hemline so that it's out of the way after the ceremony.
If you plan to wear your wedding dress to the reception, you will need a bustle. If you plan to change into a different dress for the reception, a bustle is not necessary.
The best time to bustle your dress is between the ceremony and the reception. If you're having a cocktail hour, this gives you ample time to bustle your gown before the grand entrance. You could also bustle it after the first dance.
You will likely need help bustling your dress, so it's a good idea to elect your maid of honour, mum, or a bridesmaid to help. Have them accompany you to your final wedding dress fitting so they can learn how to bustle the dress directly from the seamstress.
It's also a good idea to prepare for the worst-case scenario by having safety pins, a sewing needle, and a clear fishing line on hand.
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The different types of bustles
A bustle is an alteration made to the back of a wedding dress to lift and secure the train to the dress, allowing the bride to move around freely and comfortably. It is worth noting that a bustle is not exclusive to wedding dresses with long trains or ball gowns, as any full-length dress can be bustled to create a shorter hemline.
There are several types of bustles to choose from, and the right one for you will depend on the silhouette of the gown, the amount of fabric, and your personal preference. Here are some of the most common types of bustles:
- 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. This bustle adds drama to the back of the gown by creating a cascading effect as the fabric folds flow over the rest of the skirt.
- Traditional Bustle: This style is very similar to the American bustle, with the fabric folding over instead of under, but the difference lies in the placement of the pickups. Loops or hooks are added along the waistline, and when the train is fastened across multiple points, it creates elegant pleats at the waist.
- Ballroom Bustle: This bustle completely hides the train, giving the illusion that the bride is wearing a seamless, floor-length gown. Multiple points are added under the dress for the train to attach to, resulting in a fuller bottom due to the extra fabric attached underneath.
- French Bustle / Under Bustle / Victorian Bustle: This bustle is perfect for gowns with embellishments near the waist, as it tucks the train under the silhouette of the gown. Ribbons are often attached to connect and secure the fabric, with multiple pick-up points for added flair.
- Royal Bustle: This style is for brides seeking an elaborate, vintage-inspired look. It involves gathering the train and affixing it to the dress at several points, creating dramatic folds that add instant visual interest to the gown.
It is important to work closely with your seamstress to determine which type of bustle best suits your gown and to enlist the help of a bridesmaid or family member to learn how to bustle the dress before the wedding day.
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How to choose a bustle
Choosing a bustle for your wedding dress is an important decision, as it will impact the overall look and functionality of your gown. Here are some tips to help you choose the right bustle:
Know Your Options
Before your dress fitting, it's a good idea to familiarise yourself with the different types of bustles available. The most common types include the American bustle (or over-bustle), the ballroom bustle, and the French bustle. Each type has a distinct look and method of fastening the train to the rest of the dress. Understanding these options will help you decide which style best suits your gown and personal preferences.
Consult a Professional
During your wedding dress alteration appointment, your seamstress will be able to advise you on the most suitable bustle styles for your gown. They will consider factors such as the silhouette of the gown, the amount of fabric, and how you plan to wear it. Trust their expertise to guide you towards the best option.
Consider Functionality
The primary purpose of a bustle is to secure the train of your dress, allowing you to move freely and comfortably during your wedding reception. If you plan to dance and move around a lot, ensure you choose a bustle style that provides sufficient support and won't hinder your movements.
Choose a Designated "Bustler"
Enlist the help of a trusted individual, such as a bridesmaid or family member, to be your designated "bustler." They should accompany you to your final fitting so they can learn directly from your seamstress how to fasten and unfasten the bustle. This will ensure a smooth process on your wedding day.
Plan Ahead
Finally, consider the timing of when you'll need the bustle. Discuss with your designated "bustler" whether it will be before or after certain events, such as cocktail hour or photos, and ensure they are available at that time. This will help ensure a stress-free experience on your special day.
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Who should be tasked with bustling your dress
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. A bustle can also be used to create a shorter hemline post-ceremony.
Now that we know what a bustle is, let's discuss who should be tasked with bustling your dress. It is important to enlist the help of a trusted person to secure the bustle on your wedding dress as it is nearly impossible to do it yourself. Here are some options for who you can assign this task to:
Maid of Honour
The maid of honour is a common choice for the designated "bustler." They are usually a close friend or family member who can be trusted to handle this important task. It is a good idea to have them accompany you to your final fitting so they can learn how to bustle the dress directly from the seamstress.
Bridesmaids
If you have multiple bridesmaids, you can assign one of them the task of bustling your dress. This is a great option if you want to ensure your maid of honour is fully present and focused on their duties. Similar to the maid of honour, it is helpful to have the assigned bridesmaid attend your final fitting to learn the process.
Mother or Mother-in-Law
Another option is to ask your mother or mother-in-law to be your designated "bustler." They are likely to be honoured to be included in the wedding preparations and will carefully follow the seamstress's instructions. As with the maid of honour and bridesmaids, it is ideal to have them present at your final fitting to learn the bustling process.
Close Friend or Family Member
If you prefer to have your maid of honour and bridesmaids focused on other duties or want to involve another special person in your wedding preparations, you can assign a close friend or family member the task of bustling your dress. Ensure they receive proper instruction on how to bustle the dress, either by attending the final fitting or through a video demonstration.
Seamstress
While it is uncommon for the seamstress to be present at the wedding to bustle the dress, it is an option to discuss with them. They may be able to provide an additional service to ensure the bustling is done correctly, or they may recommend a trusted colleague to assist on the day.
It is important to note that bustling a wedding dress shouldn't take longer than a couple of minutes, depending on the helper's familiarity with the process. Proper planning and instruction will ensure a smooth and stress-free experience on your wedding day.
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What to do if your bustle breaks
A wedding dress bustle is an alteration that secures the train, or any extra fabric, off the ground and into the back of the dress. This allows the bride to walk and dance freely without tripping over her dress.
Now, what happens if your bustle breaks? Well, it is always good to be prepared for such a scenario. Here are some tips to help you fix a broken bustle:
Have a Backup Plan
Firstly, it is essential to have a backup plan in case of any wardrobe malfunctions. Consider having a simple dress on hand as a backup. It doesn't have to be another wedding dress; a simple white dress that you can change into during the reception will do. This way, you can still enjoy your special day without worrying about your bustle breaking.
Safety Pins to the Rescue
Safety pins can be a quick fix if your bustle breaks. Have some oversized safety pins easily accessible in the bridal suite. If the problem is complicated, you can pin the dress together at the broken bustle point. This will temporarily secure the train and allow you to continue with your celebrations.
Sewing Kit Solutions
In addition to safety pins, it is a good idea to have a basic sewing kit on hand. If your bustle is secured with ribbons and one comes loose, a bridesmaid or helper can sew the ribbon back into the dress using a clear fishing line. This solution may require some time and space, so consider having a separate room available for quick fixes.
Choose the Right Helpers
It is crucial to have someone familiar with the bustling process to assist you on your wedding day. Ensure that your helper attends at least one fitting to learn the technique directly from your seamstress. This can be a bridesmaid, your maid of honour, a family member, or a wedding planner. Having someone knowledgeable about bustling will reduce any fumbling time if adjustments are needed.
Record a Video Tutorial
Another excellent way to prepare is to record a video of your seamstress or wedding dress stylist demonstrating how to do the bustle. Share this video with your helpers so they can refer to it on the day of the wedding. This way, even if your designated helper is occupied or unavailable, someone else can step in and assist with the bustling.
While it is important to be prepared, try not to stress too much about your bustle breaking. With the right preparation and a supportive team, you can quickly fix any issues that may arise. Enjoy your special day, and don't let a broken bustle ruin your celebrations!
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Frequently asked questions
A bustle wedding dress is one that has been altered 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 over her dress.
A bustle wedding dress is a good option if you want to wear your wedding dress for the reception and be able to dance and move around comfortably.
There are several types of bustles to choose from, including the American bustle (or over-bustle), the ballroom bustle, and the French bustle. The American bustle is a popular choice as it adds drama to the back of the dress by creating a cascading feel as the fabric folds flow over the rest of the skirt. The ballroom bustle is flattering on most dress silhouettes as it completely hides the train without changing the look of the dress. The French bustle is also a stunning option, but it can be complicated to assemble.
It is important to give yourself enough time between the ceremony and reception to bustle your dress. You should also enlist the help of your maid of honour, a bridesmaid, your mother, or your mother-in-law to learn how to bustle your dress during your final fitting.
It is important to be prepared for the possibility of your bustle breaking during your reception. Have safety pins, a sewing needle, and a clear fishing line on hand in case you need to make any repairs.
