When it comes to wedding gowns, one of the biggest dilemmas brides face is figuring out how to bustle their dress. After all, they want to be able to walk and dance without tripping over a long train. This is where bustles come in. Simply put, a bustle is a way to gather up the fabric of a dress train, making it easier to move around. However, there are two main types of bustles – an over bustle and an under bustle. In this blog post, we’ll discuss what these types of bustles are and what sets them apart.
What is an over bustle?
An over bustle is a type of bustle that secures the train of a wedding dress to the outside of the gown, usually by using buttons or hooks and loops. The over bustle creates a sort of puffed-up effect in the back, making the dress look more voluminous. This type of bustle is ideal for wedding dresses that have full, flowing skirts as it allows the fabric to drape elegantly over the back.
One of the main benefits of using an over bustle is that it provides a more secure hold on the train, making it less likely to accidentally come undone over the course of the evening. Additionally, an over bustle can be a great way to add a bit of flair to a simple wedding gown by creating dimension and texture at the back.
What is an under bustle?
An under bustle, sometimes referred to as a French bustle, is a way of securing the train of a wedding dress to the underside of the dress. This creates a smooth, seamless look at the back of the dress, and is popular with brides who want a more understated look for their gown. The under bustle works by using buttons or hooks and loops to gather the fabric of the train and fold it neatly under the hemline of the dress.
One of the main advantages of using an under bustle is that it creates a cleaner, more polished effect, as there are no fasteners or hooks visible on the outside of the dress. This type of bustle also has the added benefit of allowing the bride to easily move around without any added bulk at the back of the dress.
How do you choose between an over bustle and an under bustle?
So, how do you decide which type of bustle to use? Ultimately, the choice will come down to your personal preferences and the style of your wedding dress. If you have a dress with a lot of fabric and volume, an over bustle may be the better option as it will allow the fabric to flow freely and create a dramatic effect. On the other hand, if you have a sleeker, more streamlined dress, an under bustle may be a better choice as it will create a more minimalist look.
Another important factor to consider is the type of wedding you’re having. If you’re getting married outdoors or in a venue with a lot of movement, an under bustle may be the better choice as it will create less bulk and be less likely to get caught on anything. Similarly, if you plan on dancing the night away, you may want to choose a bustle that provides a more secure hold, such as an over bustle.
In conclusion
When it comes to choosing between an over bustle and an under bustle, there is no right or wrong answer. Ultimately, it will come down to your personal preferences, the style of your dress, and the type of wedding you’re having. By considering these factors, you’ll be able to choose the perfect bustle for your wedding gown, allowing you to move around with ease and enjoy your special day to the fullest.
FAQ
What is an over bustle?
An over bustle, also known as an American bustle, is a technique used to gather up and fasten the train of a wedding gown or formal evening gown. The result is cascading folds that are gathered and fastened at the back of the gown. This is a popular alternative to leaving the train of the gown flowing freely, which can be impractical and cumbersome, particularly during the reception when dancing and socializing are involved.
An over bustle can be created with a series of hooks and loops, or buttons and ties that are sewn into the back of the gown. The number of points used to create the bustle may vary depending on the length and fullness of the train, as well as the overall style of the gown. This technique can be used on wedding gowns with a ball gown silhouette or with a cathedral-length train.
In terms of functionality, the over bustle is an ideal choice for brides who want to enjoy their entire wedding day without being encumbered by a lengthy train. This style of bustle also creates a more elegant and formal look to the gown, which is perfect for black-tie or gala events. The over bustle technique is typically used in conjunction with a sewn-in crinoline, or petticoat, which allows the folds to fall more naturally and gracefully.
The over bustle is a popular technique that is used to gather up and fasten the train of a wedding or formal gown, resulting in cascading folds at the back of the gown. This technique is functional and practical, while also creating an elegant and formal appearance that is perfect for more upscale events.
Can you do your own bustle?
When it comes to wedding planning, every penny counts. Couples know that wedding expenses can add up quickly, so they look for ways to cut corners and save money wherever possible. One area where you can cut costs is by doing your own bustle for your wedding dress.
For those who may not be familiar with the term, a bustle is a series of hooks, buttons, snaps, or ribbons that are added to a wedding dress to lift up the train and keep it from dragging on the ground. Wedding dresses do not come with a pre-made bustle, so it’s up to the bride-to-be to decide how she wants to bustle her dress.
While it may seem daunting at first, bustling your own gown is a task that can be accomplished with a little bit of patience, attention to detail, and basic knowledge of sewing. You will need to purchase materials such as thread, needles, and hooks-and-eyes or other fasteners, depending on the type of bustle you choose to create.
The first step is to identify the best method for bustling your specific dress. The type of bustle that’s most appropriate for your dress depends on the style, fabric, and length of your dress, so it’s important to consult with a professional seamstress or do your own research online to determine which bustle style works best for your particular gown.
Once you have decided on the bustle style, you can begin to sew it onto your dress. This can be done by hand or with a sewing machine. The process may take some time, as you’ll need to carefully measure and cut the materials to ensure they are the right length and size for your dress. It’s important to take your time and pay attention to small details to ensure that your bustle looks professional and stays secure throughout the wedding day.
While bustling your own gown may not be the easiest task, it’s certainly possible with a bit of practice and patience. With the right materials, knowledge, and time, you can create a beautiful and functional bustle that will save you money and allow you to customize your wedding dress to your liking.
What is a French bustle vs regular?
When it comes to wedding dresses, one important consideration is the train or the back of the dress. A train is a traditional and elegant feature, but it can also be somewhat cumbersome at times. That’s where bustles come into play – they allow the train to be lifted and secured, making it much easier to move around.
There are several different types of bustles that can be used, but two of the most popular are the French bustle and the American bustle. The difference between the two lies in how they lift and secure the train.
The American bustle is essentially a series of hooks and loops that are applied to the back of the dress. To create the bustle, the loops are fastened over the hooks, causing the train to be lifted and secured against the back of the dress. This creates a beautiful, flowing look that is perfect for A-line dresses and ball gowns.
On the other hand, the French bustle is a distant cousin of the American bustle. The concept is the same – to lift and secure the train – but the execution is slightly different. With a French bustle, the fabric of the train is actually pulled underneath the dress and fastened with ribbons, hooks, or buttons. This creates a more seamless and elegant look that is especially suited for dresses with heavier fabrics or shorter trains.
Both types of bustles have their pros and cons, and the choice between them will ultimately depend on the style and fabric of the dress, as well as your personal preferences. However, with either bustle style, you can be sure that your dress will look stunning and be much easier to move around in at your wedding!
