Rhiannon Hendricks
A bustle on a wedding dress is a technique used to secure the extra fabric of a gown's train to prevent it from dragging on the ground. This allows the bride to move around freely and comfortably, especially during the reception. The process involves fastening the train to the rest of the dress using hooks, ties, buttons, or ribbons, creating a shorter hemline and a more uniform look. While bustles are commonly associated with ball gowns or dresses with long trains, they can be added to any floor-length dress. The type of bustle chosen depends on the silhouette of the gown, the amount of fabric, and the desired look. There are various styles of bustles, including the American bustle, French bustle, Victorian, ballroom, and bow style, each offering a unique way to transform the train of the wedding dress.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To secure the extra fabric of a wedding dress's train to prevent it from dragging on the ground and allow the wearer to move freely. |
| Types | American, French, Victorian, Ballroom, Bow, Over |
| Cost | $75 to $250 on average, depending on the number of bustle points and style chosen. |
| Installation | Hooks, ties, or buttons are sewn into the back of the dress to create the bustle. |
| Timing | Wedding dresses are typically bustled after the ceremony and before the reception. |
| Assistance | A designated person, such as a bridesmaid or family member, is assigned to help with bustling the dress. |
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What You'll Learn
The purpose of a bustle
There are several different types of bustles, including the American bustle, French bustle, Victorian, ballroom, and bow styles. The American bustle, also known as an over bustle, involves lifting the train and fastening it over the top of the skirt using hooks at the waistline. This style can be very dramatic, with up to five bustle pick-up points. The French bustle, on the other hand, tucks the train underneath the skirt to create a billowing effect, adding fullness to the back of the gown. This style is better suited to gowns with a lot of excess fabric.
The process of bustling a wedding dress can be a bit confusing, so it is recommended that the bride designates a trusted individual, such as a bridesmaid, family member, or close friend, to be in charge of bustling the dress. This designated "bustler" should attend the final alterations appointment to learn how to do the bustle directly from the seamstress. It is also a good idea to have a backup plan in case the bustle breaks during the reception, such as having safety pins, a sewing needle, and clear fishing line on hand.
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Different types of bustles
A bustle is a feature often seen on wedding dresses, designed to lift and drape the train of the dress, keeping it off the floor for convenience and to prevent damage. This is especially useful for long, elaborate trains, transforming the gown and allowing the bride to move and dance freely during the reception. There are several types of bustles, each offering a unique look and purpose, and understanding these options is key to achieving the perfect look and functionality for your wedding dress.
The first type is the traditional overbustle, which is ideal for ball gown or A-line wedding dresses with full skirts and long trains. This method involves attaching the train to the waist or back of the dress, creating a graceful drape that adds volume and dimension. Overbustles are often secured with buttons, hooks, or ribbons, and they can be designed to be visible or concealed, depending on the desired aesthetic.
Another popular option is the underbustle, which is perfect for sheath, mermaid, or fitted wedding dresses. This technique involves lifting the train and securing it to the underside of the dress, creating a sleek and streamlined look. Underbustles are typically achieved with hooks or small ties, and they can be carefully hidden to maintain the original silhouette of the dress.
For a more subtle and simple approach, a bubble bustle is a great choice. This method creates a soft, rounded shape beneath the waistline, forming a delicate "bubble" effect. The bubble bustle is often secured with ribbons or ties and works well with lightweight fabrics such as chiffon or organza. This type of bustle is versatile and can be adapted to various dress styles.
Additionally, the French bustle, also known as the "traditional bustle," is a classic and elegant option. This technique involves creating a series of strategic folds in the train and securing them at different points to create a structured, tiered effect. The French bustle is often used for cathedral or royal-length trains and adds a touch of sophistication and drama to the overall look.
Ultimately, the choice of bustle depends on the style of the wedding dress, the length and design of the train, and the desired look and functionality. Whether you opt for a dramatic overbustle or a sleek underbustle, understanding the different types of bustles will ensure your wedding dress is not only breathtaking but also comfortable and practical for your special day.
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When to bustle your dress
A bustle is a series of loops and buttons that secure the train of a wedding dress, making it easier for the wearer to move around. Brides should plan to bustle their dress between the ceremony and the reception, often during cocktail hour. This gives the wearer the opportunity to showcase the train during the ceremony and in photos, without it getting in the way during the reception.
It is important to note that not every dress can be bustled in the same way, so brides should consult a seamstress to determine the best type of bustle for their dress. The seamstress will sew hooks, ties, or buttons onto the back of the dress to create the bustle. Brides should also enlist the help of a bridesmaid, family member, or friend to learn how to do the bustling, either by attending the final fitting or watching a video of the process.
There are several popular types of bustles to choose from, including the American or "over" bustle, which creates cascading layers that fall over the skirt of the dress, and the French bustle, where the train is tied up underneath the skirt in a billowy fashion. The choice of bustle will depend on the style of the dress, with American bustles working well for ballgowns and French bustles suiting A-line or sheath gowns.
Brides should also consider the timing of the bustling, ensuring it is done before they need to move around freely on the dance floor. Some brides may choose to bustle their dress after the first dance, while others may want to do it earlier to avoid their train getting dirty or being stepped on during photos. Ultimately, the decision of when to bustle the dress will depend on the bride's preferences and the flow of the wedding day.
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Who can help you with bustling
A wedding dress bustle is a clever way to transform a long train on a wedding gown. It allows the train to be lifted and secured to the back of the dress, creating a beautiful, flowing silhouette for the ceremony and then a more practical, dance-friendly length for the reception. Now, who can you rely on to help with this important task?
First and foremost, the bridal shop or boutique where you purchased your dress should be your go-to for any alterations, including bustling. They will have experienced seamstresses on hand who are familiar with your dress and can advise on the best type of bustle for your gown, whether it be a French, American, or Victorian bustle, to name a few. These seamstresses are skilled in ensuring the bustle is secure and invisible, enhancing the overall look of your dress.
If you're happy with the fit of your dress and only require assistance with the bustle, you could also engage an independent seamstress or dressmaker with wedding dress experience. They can advise on the best approach to bustling and ensure it complements the style of your dress. It is important to choose someone with expertise in wedding gowns, as the fabric and detailing of these dresses can be intricate and delicate, requiring a careful and skilled hand.
On your wedding day, you may also want to enlist the help of your bridesmaids and family members. They can be instructed on how to bustle your dress, ensuring a smooth transition from ceremony to reception. Practicing this beforehand ensures everyone knows exactly what to do, and you can enjoy a stress-free day, knowing your train can be transformed effortlessly.
Lastly, don't underestimate the power of online tutorials and step-by-step guides. If you're a DIY bride, or simply want to understand the process thoroughly, there are many online resources, including video tutorials, which can guide you through the different types of bustles and how to create them. This knowledge can help you communicate effectively with your seamstress and ensure you're happy with the final result. A well-executed bustle adds functionality and elegance to your wedding gown, and with the right help, it will be one less thing to worry about on your special day.
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Cost of adding a bustle
The cost of adding a bustle to a wedding dress can vary depending on several factors, including the type of bustle chosen, the complexity of the dress design, and the location and expertise of the seamstress or tailor. Here is some information to consider regarding the cost of adding this feature:
The Type of Bustle: There are several types of bustles to choose from, each varying in complexity and the amount of labour required to construct them. Some common types include the American bustle, French bustle, English bustle, and the Royal bustle. The American style is typically the simplest, featuring a single pick-up point and a straightforward design. This tends to be the most cost-effective option, with prices ranging from $50 to $100. More intricate styles, such as the French or Royal bustle, involve multiple pick-up points and a more complex arrangement of fabric. These styles can cost anywhere from $150 to $300, depending on the complexity and the number of layers that need to be bustled.
Complexity of Dress Design: The design and fabrication of the wedding dress can also impact the cost of adding a bustle. For example, a dress with multiple layers of fabric, intricate beading or embroidery, or a complex skirt design may require more time and expertise to properly add a bustle. In these cases, you can expect to pay more for the additional labour and expertise required.
Location and Expertise of Seamstress/Tailor: The cost of seamstress or tailor services can vary depending on your location and the skill level of the professional. Large metropolitan areas may have higher rates compared to smaller towns, and an experienced seamstress or tailor with a strong reputation may also charge higher fees. It is always a good idea to seek recommendations and compare prices from a few different seamstresses or tailors before making your decision.
In summary, the cost of adding a bustle to your wedding dress will depend on the specific details of your dress and the type of bustle you desire. Be sure to factor in these potential costs when budgeting for your wedding attire and allow enough time to consult with a skilled seamstress or tailor who can properly advise you on the best option for your dress.
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Frequently asked questions
A bustle on a wedding dress is a way of securing the train or any extra fabric of the gown off the ground and into the back of the dress to prevent it from dragging on the floor.
A bustle is necessary if you have a long wedding dress with a train to prevent people from stepping on it and to make it easier for you to move around, especially during the reception.
There are many types of bustles, including the American bustle, French bustle, Victorian, ballroom, and bow style. The American bustle has hooks scattered throughout the waistline of the dress to enable the train to be lifted and hooked over the top of the gown. The French bustle, on the other hand, involves tucking the train underneath the skirt to create a billowing effect at the back of the gown.
The cost of adding a bustle to a wedding dress can range from \$75 to \$250 on average, depending on the number of bustle points and the type of bustle.
It is recommended to assign the task of bustling the wedding dress to someone in the wedding party, such as a bridesmaid, the maid of honour, or a family member. This designated person should attend the final fitting to learn how to bustle the dress directly from the seamstress.
