One of the most common features of a traditional wedding dress is a long, flowing train. The train can be a beautiful addition to a gown, but it also presents some practical challenges, such as navigating through a crowded reception or dancing without tripping. To solve these problems, many brides choose to add a bustle to their wedding dress. In this blog post, we’ll look at how a bustle is added to a wedding dress and why it’s a popular choice for brides.
What Is a Bustle?
First, let’s define what a bustle is. A bustle is the process of “removing” a train from a wedding gown. This involves pulling up the train and securing it to the back of the dress, usually with buttons, hooks, or ribbons. When the train is bustled, it no longer trails behind the bride as she walks, making it easier to move around and dance.
Why Add a Bustle?
So why do brides choose to add a bustle to their wedding dress? There are a few reasons. One is practicality. Most wedding dresses are designed with a long train that adds drama and elegance to the ceremony but can be cumbersome during the reception. A bustle allows the bride to move freely and comfortably without worrying about tripping over her dress.
Another reason is style. Some brides prefer the look of a bustled dress over a long train. A bustle can create a new silhouette for the dress, giving it a more structured appearance. It can also showcase other details on the gown, such as lace or beading, that might have been hidden by the train.
Types of Bustles
There are several types of bustles that can be added to a wedding dress. The type of bustle used depends on the style of the gown and the bride’s preference. Here are some of the most common types:
1. Overbustle: This type of bustle involves lifting the train of the gown up and securing it to the bodice with buttons, hooks, or ribbons. This style is ideal for gowns with a lot of volume, as it creates a more sweeping look.
2. Underbustle: An underbustle involves lifting the train of the gown up and securing it to the structure underneath the dress. This style is ideal for gowns that have a more fitted silhouette, as it keeps the fabric close to the body.
3. French bustle: This style is similar to an overbustle but involves draping the train over itself in a cascading pattern. This creates a more intricate look and is a good choice for gowns with a lot of layers or a detailed hemline.
4. Ballroom bustle: A ballroom bustle involves securing the train of the gown to the waistline with hooks or ribbons. This creates a more voluminous look and is ideal for gowns with a full skirt.
How Is a Bustle Added to a Wedding Dress?
Adding a bustle to a wedding dress is a task best left to a professional seamstress. The process can be complicated, especially if the gown has multiple layers or intricate details. Here is a general overview of how a bustle is added to a wedding dress:
1. First, the gown is examined to determine the best style of bustle and the placement of the hooks or buttons.
2. The dress is then marked with pins or chalk to show where the hooks or buttons will be attached.
3. The hooks or buttons are added to the gown, usually by hand.
4. The seamstress will then work with the bride to determine the best way to arrange the train and secure it in place.
5. Once the bustle is in place, the seamstress will make any necessary adjustments to the length or fit of the gown.
Depending on the complexity of the bustle and the style of the dress, this process can take several hours or even a few days.
Conclusion
A bustle is a practical and stylish addition to any wedding dress. It allows the bride to move freely and comfortably without losing the dramatic effect of a long train. Whether you choose an overbustle, underbustle, French bustle, or ballroom bustle, the result is a beautiful and functional gown that will make your wedding day unforgettable. Be sure to work with a professional seamstress who can guide you through the process and help you choose the best style of bustle for your dress.
FAQ
How much does it cost to add a bustle to a dress?
Adding a bustle to a dress is a common alteration that many brides opt for. A bustle is a series of hooks, buttons, or loops that are added to the back of a wedding dress to lift the train off the ground, making it easier for the bride to walk and move around. However, the cost of adding a bustle to a dress can vary depending on the complexity of the design and the skill level of the tailor.
On average, the cost of adding a bustle to your wedding dress ranges between $75 to $250. The cost can be higher or lower depending on various factors such as the type of bustle you want, the complexity of the design, the location of the tailor, and the quality of materials used. Some tailors may charge by the hour, while others may charge a flat fee for the entire alteration process.
It is important to factor in the cost of adding a bustle to your wedding dress in your overall dress budget. Depending on the amount of work needed, the cost of alterations may add up quickly. It is best to discuss the pricing options with a few different tailors and get a quote before making a final decision.
It is also worth noting that the cost of adding a bustle to a dress may differ depending on the fabric and style of your dress. For example, if you have a lace or beaded dress, the alterations may take longer, and the materials may be more expensive. It is essential to find an experienced tailor who specializes in working with delicate fabrics to ensure the job is done correctly.
Adding a bustle to a dress is a small but crucial alteration that can make your wedding day much more comfortable and convenient. The cost of the alteration may vary, but it is wise to factor in the cost when creating your dress budget. It is important to do your research and find an experienced tailor who can offer quality services at a reasonable price.
What is the difference between over bustle and under bustle?
When it comes to wedding dresses, one finishing detail that can make a big difference in the overall look is the bustle. A bustle is essentially a way of lifting the train of a gown and securing it to the back of the dress, so it doesn’t drag on the ground. There are two main types of bustles: the over bustle and the under bustle.
First, let’s take a closer look at the over bustle. As its name suggests, this type of bustle involves lifting the train of the gown up and over itself, securing it to the outside of the dress. Typically, an over bustle will have one or more fasteners (such as hooks or buttons) on the top of the train that get lifted up and hooked to the fabric on the outside of the gown. When all the fasteners have been secured, the train of the dress is lifted up and off the ground, giving the bride greater mobility and allowing her to dance or move around with ease.
On the other hand, an under bustle works by folding the train of the dress under itself and securing it to the underside of the gown. This type of bustle often involves more hooks and loops than an over bustle, since the fastening points are hidden from view and need to be distributed more evenly throughout the train. To create an under bustle, the bride or a seamstress usually gathers the fabric of the train of the dress together, folding it neatly in a way that creates a series of pleats or loops underneath the garment. Once the train has been secured to the underside of the dress, the bride can move around with ease and enjoy all the benefits of having her gown bustled without worrying about any excess fabric getting in her way.
When deciding between an over bustle and an under bustle for your wedding dress, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. One consideration is the overall style of the gown itself. Some dresses may be better suited to an over bustle, while others may look better with an under bustle. Additionally, your own personal preferences in terms of comfort and freedom of movement should be taken into account. no matter which type of bustle you choose, it’s sure to add a touch of elegance and practicality to your wedding day look.
What is the French bustle technique?
The French bustle technique is a design element used to create a bustle in a wedding dress, evening gown, or any other formal dress. It is a highly popular technique that has been used for several years now and is an excellent way to transform a long, flowing gown into a more functional dress, especially for dancing and moving around freely.
The French bustle involves folding the back of the gown underneath and hooking it below. This technique allows the buttons on the back of the gown to fall down the center of the dress while giving it a more streamlined appeal. The French bustle technique is known for its elegance and is often used in princess-style dresses that have long trains and gathered fabric. Its popularity has also made it a go-to choice for brides who wish to add a touch of glamour and sophistication to their wedding dress.
The process of creating a French bustle on a gown involves several steps, and it is essential to take into account the type of fabric used and the style of the dress. This technique involves adding ribbons or ties to the base of the dress, which are then used to create numerous pick-up points for the fabric to be attached to. These pick-up points are secured using hooks or ties and are strategically placed to create a beautiful draping effect.
One of the best things about the French bustle technique is that it can be customized to suit a bride’s personal style, while also ensuring maximum comfort and mobility. The bustle can be made as simple or elaborate as desired, depending on the individual’s preference. Additionally, the French bustle can be installed in any style of dress, whether it is flowy or fitted, by a skilled seamstress.
The French bustle technique is an elegant and sophisticated design element that adds beauty and functionality to a gown. Its timeless appeal has made it a popular choice for brides, and it is a great way to ensure that the gown is comfortable and easy to wear while still retaining its stunning appearance. If you are considering adding a French bustle to your wedding dress or formal attire, consult with a professional seamstress to ensure that the technique suits your dress style and fabric and is tailored to your unique needs.
