What is the process of adding a bustle to a wedding gown?

Holidays & Special Events

By Kristy Tolley

Understanding the Need for a Bustle

A wedding gown is one of the most important things to consider while planning a wedding. Every bride dreams of a perfect wedding gown that fits her like a glove. However, as beautiful as wedding gowns are, they can be quite cumbersome to wear, particularly during the reception. A bustle is an essential feature that enables brides to move about freely without tripping or dragging their dresses. A bustle lifts the train of the wedding gown, making it easy to dance, walk, and socialize. In this article, we will explore the process of adding a bustle to a wedding gown.

Step 1: Determining the Type of Bustle

The first step in the process of adding a bustle to a wedding gown is to determine the type of bustle that suits the gown. There are three main types of bustles: the French bustle, the American bustle, and the Victorian bustle. The French bustle is the most popular and involves lifting the train of the gown and attaching it to the interior of the dress using buttons or loops. The American bustle involves gathering the train and fastening it to the back of the gown using hooks or eyes. The Victorian bustle, also known as the under bustle, involves tying ribbons under the skirt to lift the train of the gown.

Knowing the type of bustle that suits the gown is crucial in ensuring that the bustle enhances the beauty of the dress and doesn’t detract from its elegance.

Step 2: Identifying the Placement of Bustle Points

The next step is to identify the placement of the bustle points. The bustle points are where the train of the gown is lifted and fastened to the dress. The placement of the bustle points depends on the type of bustle and the style of the dress. For instance, the placement of the bustle points for a French bustle is usually under the skirt, while the placement of the bustle points for an American bustle is usually at the back of the dress.

Identifying the placement of the bustle points is crucial in ensuring that the bustle lifts the train of the gown in the right way and doesn’t distort the silhouette of the dress.

Step 3: Creating the Bustle Loops

The next step is to create the bustle loops. The bustle loops are strips of fabric that are attached to the inside of the dress and used to lift the train of the gown. The number of bustle loops depends on the type of bustle and the length of the train.

To create the bustle loops, the fabric is folded and stitched to create a loop. The loops are then attached to the inside of the dress using a needle and thread.

Step 4: Sewing the Bustle Loops to the Gown

Once the bustle loops are created, the next step is to sew them to the dress. The loops are usually attached to the dress at the bustle points identified in step two. The loops are sewn to the inside of the dress using a needle and thread.

Step 5: Attaching the Bustle Buttons or Hooks

After the loops are sewn to the dress, the next step is to attach the bustle buttons or hooks. The buttons or hooks are usually located on the outside of the dress. The buttons or hooks are attached to the bustle loops to lift the train of the gown.

Step 6: Testing the Bustle

Once the buttons or hooks are attached, the next step is to test the bustle. The bride should put on the dress and have someone lift the train to ensure that it is lifted correctly. If the train is not lifted correctly, adjustments need to be made to the placement of the bustle points or the length of the bustle loops.

Step 7: Adjusting the Bustle for a Perfect Fit

If any adjustments need to be made, the next step is to adjust the bustle for a perfect fit. The adjustments may involve moving the bustle points or shortening the bustle loops. The goal is to ensure that the bustle lifts the train of the gown perfectly without distorting the dress’s silhouette.

Step 8: Finishing Touches: Concealing the Bustle

The final step is to conceal the bustle. The bustle buttons or hooks should be concealed to ensure that they don’t detract from the beauty of the dress. This can be done by adding fabric or lace to cover the buttons or hooks.

Tips and Tricks for a Successful Bustle Application

Here are some tips and tricks for a successful bustle application:

  • Always use a professional seamstress to add a bustle to a wedding gown.
  • Make sure the bustle is tailored to the dress to ensure a perfect fit.
  • Be patient and take your time when adding a bustle to a wedding gown.
  • Don’t wait until the last minute to add a bustle to a wedding gown.

Conclusion: Enhancing the Beauty of a Wedding Gown

A bustle is an essential feature that enhances the beauty of a wedding gown and enables brides to move about freely without tripping or dragging their dresses. The process of adding a bustle to a wedding gown involves determining the type of bustle, identifying the placement of the bustle points, creating the bustle loops, sewing the bustle loops to the dress, attaching the bustle buttons or hooks, testing the bustle, adjusting the bustle for a perfect fit, and concealing the bustle. By following these steps and tips, brides can ensure that their wedding gowns have a perfectly tailored bustle that enhances their beauty and enables them to enjoy their special day to the fullest.

Resources for Further Assistance

If you need further assistance with adding a bustle to a wedding gown, you can reach out to a professional seamstress or bridal shop. They can provide guidance and support in adding a bustle to a wedding gown and ensure that you have a perfectly tailored gown for your special day.

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Kristy Tolley

Kristy Tolley, an accomplished editor at TravelAsker, boasts a rich background in travel content creation. Before TravelAsker, she led editorial efforts at Red Ventures Puerto Rico, shaping content for Platea English. Kristy's extensive two-decade career spans writing and editing travel topics, from destinations to road trips. Her passion for travel and storytelling inspire readers to embark on their own journeys.

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