Junior Rasmussen
Wedding dress bustles are an important, yet often overlooked, element of a bridal gown. They are an alteration made to the back of a wedding dress to lift and secure the train, allowing the bride to move around freely. There are several types of wedding dress bustles, including the American bustle, ballroom bustle, French bustle, royal bustle, and bow bustle. This article will focus specifically on the French bustle and how it can enhance the overall look and feel of a wedding dress. The French bustle, also known as the under-bustle, is characterized by its subtle yet sophisticated aesthetic. It creates a romantic, fairy-tale-like touch to any bridal ensemble.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To lift the train off the ground and secure it to the dress, allowing the bride to move freely. |
| Types | American, Ballroom, French, Royal, Bow, Austrian |
| French Bustle Characteristics | Subtle, sophisticated, romantic, vintage-inspired, pairs well with a variety of dress styles |
| French Bustle Compatibility | Gowns with embellishments near the waist, voluminous skirts, dramatic silhouettes, ball gowns, mermaid or trumpet style dresses |
| French Bustle Technique | Opposite of the American style, the train folds under itself, creating a two-layer hem at the back |
| Fastening | Hooks, ribbons, loops, buttons |
| Cost | $75 to $250 on average |
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What You'll Learn
French bustle vs. American bustle
A wedding dress bustle is a way 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. Wedding dress bustles are especially useful if you want to dance at your wedding reception.
The American bustle, also known as an over-bustle, is one of the most popular ways to pick up the train. This look is achieved when the outside of the train is lifted and secured over the back of the gown to the wedding dress's waistline. This style can have one, three, or even five bustle pick-up points for an ultra-dramatic look. The American bustle is also known as the ballroom bustle, as it completely hides the train without changing the look of the dress.
The French bustle, also known as the under-bustle, is the opposite of the American style. The French bustle has the train fold under itself instead of over, creating an understated, two-layer hem that creates a design at the back. This bustle is perfect for dresses with heavier fabrics or shorter trains, and it can also add volume to the dress. The French bustle is achieved using hooks and ribbons to connect and secure the fabric, and it can have numerous pick-up points for extra flair.
Both the American and French bustles are popular choices for brides, with each style offering unique advantages. The American bustle provides a seamless look that hides the train, while the French bustle creates a stylish and elegant design at the back of the dress. Ultimately, the choice between a French bustle and an American bustle depends on the bride's preference and the style of the wedding dress.
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How to bustle a wedding dress
To bustle a wedding dress is to alter it to function as if it had no train, allowing the bride to walk freely without tripping over the fabric. This is done by fastening the train to the rest of the dress, creating a shorter hemline.
There are several types of wedding dress bustles, including the American, Ballroom, French, Royal, and Bow. The American bustle, also known as an over-bustle, is a popular way to pick up the train. This look is achieved by lifting the outside of the train and securing it over the back of the gown to the waistline. Brides can choose between one statement pickup or multiple pickup points for added flair.
The Ballroom bustle, on the other hand, completely hides the train without changing the look of the dress. This is achieved by adding several points under the dress for the train to attach to, resulting in the illusion of an untouched, floor-length gown.
The French bustle, also known as an under-bustle, is the opposite of the American style. Instead of folding over the outside of the dress, the French bustle pins the train underneath, creating a two-layer hem that adds design to the back. Ribbons or numbers are often added underneath the gown for connection and security. This type of bustle is perfect for dresses with heavier fabrics or shorter trains and can add volume to the look.
To successfully bustle a wedding dress, it is important to trust the seamstress to recommend the best type of bustle for the silhouette and fabric of the gown. They will sew hooks, ties, or buttons onto the back of the dress to achieve the desired bustle. The task of bustling the dress on the wedding day should then be delegated to a trusted individual, usually a bridesmaid or family member. This person should attend the final alterations appointment to learn how to bustle the dress directly from the seamstress.
Additionally, it is essential to prepare for any potential issues. Wedding dresses can be heavy, and the bustle points can be delicate, so it is a good idea to have safety pins, a sewing needle, and clear fishing line on hand in case any repairs are needed during the reception.
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Who should bustle the bride's dress
A wedding dress bustle is an important element of a bridal gown, allowing the bride to move around and dance freely during the reception. It involves fastening the train to the rest of the dress, creating a shorter hemline. While some brides opt to leave their train flowing for the first dance, most choose to bustle their dresses after the ceremony and before the reception.
So, who should be assigned the task of bustling the bride's dress? Well, it is usually nearly impossible for a bride to secure a bustle by herself while wearing the bridal gown. Therefore, it is recommended that the bride enlist the help of a trusted person, such as the maid of honour, a bridesmaid, a parent, a close friend, or even the wedding coordinator. This designated "bustler" should ideally attend at least one fitting, especially the final one, to learn directly from the seamstress and understand the technique to reduce any fumbling on the big day.
It is also a good idea for this person to be prepared for any quick fixes that might be needed during the reception. For example, if the dress is bustled with ribbons and one comes loose, a bridesmaid should be ready to sew the ribbon back with a clear fishing line. Alternatively, if the problem is more complicated, an oversized safety pin can be used to pin the dress together at the broken bustle point.
Ultimately, the bustling of the dress train is a crucial task that ensures the bride can move comfortably and confidently throughout the reception. By assigning this role to a capable and trusted individual, the bride can rest assured that her train will be securely bustled, allowing her to fully enjoy her special day.
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Cost of adding a bustle
Adding a bustle to a wedding dress is not a simple task and should be left to a professional. The cost of adding a bustle to a wedding dress ranges from $75 to $250 on average, but can be as high as $500 for a 5-point American bustle. The price depends on the type of bustle and the number of bustle points, with more intricate designs and those with more points costing more. Gowns with more train fabric, like ballgowns, will also cost more to bustle as they will likely need more than one attachment point.
French bustles are ideal for wedding gowns with a more natural waistline, like a mermaid or A-line gown. They are also well-suited for sturdier fabrics like satin, crepe or lace dresses that have a heavier lining. Brides with ball gowns, A-line or fit-and-flare silhouettes should consider a French bustle. This type of bustle has hooks that pick up the train as it tucks under the silhouette, creating a layered or ruffled look at the bottom of the gown. Color-coordinated ribbons can also be added underneath the gown, but these can be a pain to tie and can damage the dress if they are too tight.
It's important to note that bustles can break, especially if the wedding dress is heavy. It's a good idea to have safety pins, a sewing needle, and clear fishing line on hand to make any necessary repairs.
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How to choose the right bustle
A wedding dress bustle is a way to secure the train of a bridal gown to function as if it had no train, allowing the bride to walk freely and dance without tripping over the fabric. Wedding dresses come in a variety of silhouettes and styles, and there are several types of bustles to choose from. Here are some tips on how to choose the right bustle for your wedding dress:
Trust the Experts:
Bridal stylists and seamstresses are experts in their field and can provide valuable guidance in selecting the best bustle for your gown. They will consider the silhouette, amount of fabric, and your desired look. It is recommended to consult with them during your dress fittings to ensure the bustle complements your gown perfectly.
Understand the Different Types of Bustles:
There are several types of wedding dress bustles, each creating a distinct effect. The American bustle, also known as an over-bustle, lifts the train and secures it over the back of the gown at the waistline. This style can add drama and transform the silhouette. On the other hand, the ballroom bustle aims to hide the train completely, creating the illusion of an untouched, floor-length gown. The French bustle, or under-bustle, is the reverse of the American style, with the train folding under itself, resulting in an understated two-layer hem. It is perfect for gowns with a natural waistline and can add volume. Understanding these options will help you choose the right bustle for your desired look.
Consider the Fabric and Length of the Train:
The type of bustle you choose should consider the fabric and length of your train. For heavier fabrics or shorter trains, a French bustle is an excellent option as it pins the fabric underneath, creating a voluminous look. If your train has intricate details, you may want a bustle with multiple pins to showcase the design while also securing the fabric.
Practicality and Functionality:
While the aesthetic appeal is important, consider the practicality and functionality of the bustle. Think about your comfort and ease of movement during the reception. You want to be able to dance and move around without feeling restricted. Additionally, prepare for any potential bustle points breaking during the event. Have safety pins, a sewing needle, and clear fishing line on hand to make any necessary repairs.
Assign a Designated "Bustler":
Enlist the help of a trusted individual, such as a bridesmaid or family member, to be responsible for bustling your dress. They should attend your final alterations appointment to learn how to bustle the dress and be prepared to assist you on your wedding day.
Remember, choosing the right bustle is about finding the perfect balance between style and functionality. By following these tips and working with your bridal team, you can ensure your wedding dress will look stunning and allow you to move with ease throughout your special day.
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Frequently asked questions
A bustle is an alteration made to the back of a wedding dress to lift and secure the train off the ground so that the bride can walk freely without tripping over her dress.
A French bustle, also known as an under-bustle, is the opposite of an American bustle. It tucks the train underneath the silhouette of the dress, creating a subtle, vintage, romantic look.
An American bustle, or over-bustle, is one of the most popular types of bustles. It picks up the train and layers it against the outside of the dress. The French bustle does the opposite, tucking the train underneath the dress.
The French bustle is perfect for dresses with heavier fabrics and shorter trains. It is also ideal for dresses with embellishments near the waist as it draws attention to the waist. It is also suitable for a variety of wedding dress styles, especially those with voluminous skirts or dramatic silhouettes.
Brides typically bustle their dresses after the ceremony and before the reception. It is a good idea to enlist the help of a maid of honour, bridesmaid, parent, or close friend to do the bustling as it is nearly impossible to do it alone.
