A bustle is a support structure worn under a wedding dress to create volume and support the train. It is typically made of fabric, wire, or other materials, and can be attached to the dress in various ways. Bustles have been used for centuries to add elegance and drama to wedding gowns, and they remain a popular choice for brides today.
There are many different types of bustles, each with its own unique look and function. The most common type of bustle is the American bustle, which creates a full, rounded shape at the back of the dress. Other popular types include the French bustle, which creates a more subtle lift, and the watteau bustle, which creates a long, flowing train.
In this article, we will discuss the different types of bustles, how they are attached to the dress, and how to choose the right bustle for your wedding dress.
Bustle on Wedding Dress
A bustle is a support structure worn under a wedding dress to create volume and support the train. It can be attached to the dress in various ways and comes in different types, each with its unique look and function.
- Creates volume and support
- Attached in various ways
- Different types available
- American bustle: full, rounded shape
- French bustle: subtle lift
- Watteau bustle: long, flowing train
- Helps preserve the dress
- Enhances the bride's figure
- Can be customized to match the dress
- Available in different materials
Bustles are a popular choice for brides who want to add elegance and drama to their wedding gowns. They can also help to preserve the dress and enhance the bride's figure.
Creates Volume and Support
One of the main functions of a bustle is to create volume and support for the wedding dress. This is especially important for dresses with long trains or full skirts. A bustle can help to distribute the weight of the fabric evenly, preventing it from dragging on the ground or becoming too heavy for the bride to wear.
Bustles can also be used to create a variety of different looks. For example, an American bustle can create a full, rounded shape at the back of the dress, while a French bustle can create a more subtle lift. The type of bustle that is used will depend on the bride's personal style and the overall look that she wants to achieve.
In addition to creating volume and support, bustles can also help to preserve the wedding dress. By keeping the train off the ground, a bustle can help to prevent it from getting dirty or damaged. This can be especially important for outdoor weddings or weddings that are held in wet weather.
Bustles are a valuable addition to any wedding dress. They can help to create volume, support the train, and preserve the dress. When choosing a bustle, it is important to consider the bride's personal style and the overall look that she wants to achieve.
Bustles are typically made from a variety of materials, including fabric, wire, and horsehair. The type of material used will depend on the desired look and function of the bustle. For example, fabric bustles are often used to create a soft, flowing look, while wire bustles are used to create a more structured look.
Attached in Various Ways
Bustles can be attached to the wedding dress in a variety of ways. The most common method is to use a series of hooks and eyes. The hooks are sewn onto the inside of the dress, and the eyes are sewn onto the bustle. When the bustle is attached, the hooks are simply hooked onto the eyes.
- Hooks and eyes
This is the most common method of attaching a bustle. It is simple and secure, and it can be done by a seamstress or even by the bride herself.
- Buttons and loops
This method is similar to hooks and eyes, but it uses buttons and loops instead. It is less common than hooks and eyes, but it can be a good option for dresses with delicate fabrics.
- Fabric ties
This method uses fabric ties to attach the bustle to the dress. It is a more casual option, but it can be a good choice for dresses with a rustic or bohemian style.
- Safety pins
This is a quick and easy way to attach a bustle, but it is not as secure as the other methods. It is best to use safety pins in addition to another method of attachment.
The method of attachment that is used will depend on the type of bustle and the fabric of the dress. It is important to choose a method that is secure and that will not damage the dress.
Different Types Available
There are many different types of bustles available, each with its own unique look and function. The most common type of bustle is the American bustle, which creates a full, rounded shape at the back of the dress. Other popular types include the French bustle, which creates a more subtle lift, and the watteau bustle, which creates a long, flowing train.
In addition to these three main types, there are also a number of other less common types of bustles available. These include the:
- Austrian bustle: This type of bustle creates a wide, flat shape at the back of the dress.
- Cage bustle: This type of bustle uses a metal cage to create a dramatic, hooped shape at the back of the dress.
- Polonaise bustle: This type of bustle creates a long, flowing train that is gathered up at the back of the dress.
- Round bustle: This type of bustle creates a small, round shape at the back of the dress.
The type of bustle that is used will depend on the bride's personal style and the overall look that she wants to achieve. It is important to consult with a seamstress or bridal consultant to choose the right bustle for your wedding dress.
Bustles can be made from a variety of materials, including fabric, wire, and horsehair. The type of material used will depend on the desired look and function of the bustle. For example, fabric bustles are often used to create a soft, flowing look, while wire bustles are used to create a more structured look.
zumal UrlFrench Bustle: Subtle Lift
The French bustle is a type of bustle that creates a subtle lift at the back of the wedding dress. It is less dramatic than the American bustle, but it can still add a touch of volume and support to the dress.
- Creates a natural look
The French bustle is designed to create a natural look, as if the dress is simply flowing behind the bride. It is a good choice for brides who want to add a touch of elegance to their dress without overpowering it.
- Versatile
The French bustle is versatile and can be used with a variety of wedding dress styles. It is a good choice for both formal and informal weddings.
- Comfortable to wear
The French bustle is comfortable to wear and does not restrict the bride's movement. It is a good choice for brides who want to be able to dance and move freely on their wedding day.
- Can be customized
The French bustle can be customized to match the bride's personal style. It can be made with different materials, such as fabric, wire, or horsehair, and it can be decorated with beads, crystals, or other embellishments.
The French bustle is a beautiful and versatile option for brides who want to add a touch of volume and support to their wedding dress. It is a good choice for both formal and informal weddings, and it can be customized to match the bride's personal style.
Watteau Bustle: Long, Flowing Train
The Watteau bustle is a type of bustle that creates a long, flowing train at the back of the wedding dress. It is the most dramatic type of bustle and is often used for formal weddings.
- Creates a dramatic look
The Watteau bustle is designed to create a dramatic look, as if the bride is floating down the aisle. It is a good choice for brides who want to make a grand entrance on their wedding day.
- Versatile
The Watteau bustle can be used with a variety of wedding dress styles, but it is most commonly used with ball gowns and A-line dresses.
- Can be customized
The Watteau bustle can be customized to match the bride's personal style. It can be made with different materials, such as fabric, wire, or horsehair, and it can be decorated with beads, crystals, or other embellishments.
- Requires a skilled seamstress
The Watteau bustle is a complex design and requires a skilled seamstress to create. It is important to find a seamstress who has experience in making this type of bustle.
The Watteau bustle is a beautiful and dramatic option for brides who want to make a grand entrance on their wedding day. It is a good choice for formal weddings and can be customized to match the bride's personal style.
Helps Preserve the Dress
One of the main benefits of a bustle is that it can help to preserve the wedding dress. By keeping the train off the ground, a bustle can help to prevent it from getting dirty or damaged. This can be especially important for outdoor weddings or weddings that are held in wet weather.
In addition to protecting the train, a bustle can also help to prevent the dress from getting wrinkled or torn. This is especially important for dresses made from delicate fabrics, such as lace or silk. By keeping the dress off the ground, a bustle can help to prevent it from snagging on anything or getting caught in the wind.
Bustles are a valuable investment for any bride who wants to preserve her wedding dress. They can help to keep the dress clean, wrinkle-free, and damage-free, both during the wedding and for years to come.
Bustles can also be used to create a variety of different looks. For example, an American bustle can create a full, rounded shape at the back of the dress, while a French bustle can create a more subtle lift. The type of bustle that is used will depend on the bride's personal style and the overall look that she wants to achieve.
Enhances the Bride's Figure
A bustle can also be used to enhance the bride's figure. By creating volume and support at the back of the dress, a bustle can help to accentuate the bride's waist and hips. This can create a more flattering and feminine silhouette.
- Creates a more defined waist
A bustle can help to create a more defined waist by cinching in the dress at the back. This can help to accentuate the bride's natural curves and give her a more hourglass figure.
- Lifts and supports the bust
A bustle can also help to lift and support the bust. This can create a more flattering neckline and give the bride a more youthful appearance.
- Accentuates the hips
A bustle can help to accentuate the hips by creating volume at the back of the dress. This can help to create a more balanced and proportional figure.
- Improves posture
A bustle can also help to improve the bride's posture by supporting the back of the dress. This can help the bride to stand up straighter and taller, which can make her look more confident and poised.
Bustles are a valuable addition to any wedding dress. They can help to create volume, support the train, preserve the dress, and enhance the bride's figure. When choosing a bustle, it is important to consider the bride's personal style and the overall look that she wants to achieve.
Can be Customized to Match the Dress
Bustles can be customized to match the dress in a variety of ways. The most common way is to use the same fabric as the dress. This will create a seamless look and ensure that the bustle blends in with the rest of the dress.
Another way to customize a bustle is to use a different fabric that complements the dress. For example, a bride could use a lace bustle with a satin dress or a silk bustle with a chiffon dress. This can create a more unique and eye-catching look.
In addition to the fabric, the bride can also customize the size and shape of the bustle. For example, a bride could choose a small and subtle bustle or a large and dramatic bustle. The size and shape of the bustle will depend on the bride's personal style and the overall look that she wants to achieve.
Finally, the bride can also customize the embellishments on the bustle. For example, a bride could add beads, crystals, or other embellishments to the bustle to make it more unique and personal.
By customizing the bustle to match the dress, the bride can create a look that is both unique and beautiful. A well-chosen bustle can complement the dress and enhance the bride's overall appearance.
Available in Different Materials
Bustles can be made from a variety of different materials, each with its own unique properties. The most common materials used for bustles are:
- Fabric
Fabric bustles are the most common type of bustle. They are made from a variety of fabrics, including silk, satin, tulle, and organza. Fabric bustles are lightweight and flexible, and they can be easily customized to match the dress.
- Wire
Wire bustles are made from a thin, flexible wire. They are more structured than fabric bustles, and they can be used to create a more dramatic look. Wire bustles are often used for dresses with heavier fabrics, such as lace or satin.
- Horsehair
Horsehair bustles are made from the hair of horses. They are very stiff and durable, and they can be used to create a very dramatic look. Horsehair bustles are often used for dresses with very full skirts.
- Crinoline
Crinoline is a stiff fabric that is often used to make petticoats and bustles. It is very lightweight and airy, and it can be used to create a very full and dramatic look. Crinoline bustles are often used for ball gowns and other formal dresses.
The choice of material for a bustle will depend on the desired look and the fabric of the dress. It is important to consult with a seamstress or bridal consultant to choose the right material for your bustle.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about bustles on wedding dresses:
Question 1: What is a bustle?
A bustle is a support structure worn under a wedding dress to create volume and support the train. It can be attached to the dress in various ways and comes in different types, each with its unique look and function.
Question 2: Why should I use a bustle?
Bustles can help to create volume, support the train, preserve the dress, and enhance the bride's figure. They can also be customized to match the dress and are available in different materials.
Question 3: What types of bustles are there?
There are many different types of bustles, but the most common are the American bustle, French bustle, and Watteau bustle. The American bustle creates a full, rounded shape, the French bustle creates a more subtle lift, and the Watteau bustle creates a long, flowing train.
Question 4: How do I choose the right bustle for my dress?
The best way to choose the right bustle for your dress is to consult with a seamstress or bridal consultant. They can help you to choose a bustle that will complement your dress and achieve the look that you want.
Question 5: How much does it cost to add a bustle to my dress?
The cost of adding a bustle to your dress will vary depending on the type of bustle and the complexity of the design. However, you can expect to pay between $75 and $250 for a bustle.
Question 6: Can I bustle my dress myself?
It is possible to bustle your dress yourself, but it is not recommended. Bustling a dress is a complex task that requires skill and experience. It is best to leave it to a professional seamstress to ensure that your dress is bustled correctly.
Question 7: How do I bustle my dress on my wedding day?
Your seamstress or bridal consultant will show you how to bustle your dress on your wedding day. They will also provide you with detailed instructions that you can refer to on the day of your wedding.
These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about bustles on wedding dresses. If you have any other questions, please do not hesitate to ask your seamstress or bridal consultant.
Now that you know more about bustles, here are a few tips to help you choose the right bustle for your wedding dress:
Tips
Here are a few tips to help you choose the right bustle for your wedding dress:
Consider your dress style. The type of bustle that you choose should complement the style of your dress. For example, a ball gown will look best with a full, rounded bustle, while a mermaid dress will look best with a more subtle bustle.
Think about your body type. The right bustle can help to enhance your body type. For example, if you have a pear-shaped figure, a bustle can help to create a more balanced look. If you have an hourglass figure, a bustle can help to accentuate your waist and hips.
Talk to your seamstress or bridal consultant. A seamstress or bridal consultant can help you to choose the right bustle for your dress and body type. They can also help you to attach the bustle and show you how to bustle your dress on your wedding day.
Practice bustling your dress. Once you have chosen a bustle, it is important to practice bustling your dress before your wedding day. This will help you to become familiar with the process and ensure that you can bustle your dress quickly and easily on your wedding day.
By following these tips, you can choose the right bustle for your wedding dress and ensure that you look your best on your big day.
Now that you know more about bustles, you are well on your way to choosing the perfect bustle for your wedding dress. With a little planning and preparation, you can be sure that your dress will look its best and that you will be able to dance the night away in comfort and style.
Conclusion
Bustles are a valuable addition to any wedding dress. They can help to create volume, support the train, preserve the dress, and enhance the bride's figure. When choosing a bustle, it is important to consider the bride's personal style and the overall look that she wants to achieve.
With so many different types of bustles available, there is sure to be a bustle that is perfect for every bride. By following the tips in this article, you can choose the right bustle for your wedding dress and ensure that you look your best on your big day.
We hope this article has been helpful. If you have any other questions about bustles, please do not hesitate to ask your seamstress or bridal consultant.