Every bride wants to look their best on their wedding day, and the wedding dress plays a crucial role in achieving that. However, it can be challenging to maneuver the long train of a wedding dress throughout the ceremony and reception. That’s where bustling comes in!
Bustling refers to the process of tying up the train of a wedding dress with buttons, hooks, or ribbons to lift it off the ground and keep it out of the way. But, when it comes to wedding dresses with tulle fabric, bustling can seem daunting. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to bustle a wedding dress with tulle.
Whether you’re a bride-to-be or a wedding planner, this article will help you understand why bustling is important, the different types of bustles available, and how to add a bustle to a wedding dress with tulle. So, let’s get started!
Why Bustling a Wedding Dress is Important
When it comes to a wedding dress, there are a lot of details to consider, and bustling is one of them. Bustling refers to the process of gathering and securing the train of a wedding dress to the back of the gown. This is an essential step in making sure that the bride can move freely without tripping over her dress.
Without bustling, the bride risks damaging her dress, tripping on the train, and overall feeling uncomfortable throughout her big day. Not only does bustling help the bride to move more freely, but it also allows her to show off her dress in all its glory. So, it’s essential to know how to do it correctly!
Another reason why bustling a wedding dress is important is because it can change the look of the gown. Depending on the type of bustle used, the train of the dress can create a unique and elegant silhouette. Bustling can also give the dress a different shape, allowing the bride to enjoy a different look during the reception.
It’s also worth noting that bustling a wedding dress can save the bride money in the long run. Without bustling, the train of the dress can drag on the ground, potentially causing damage and increasing the cost of alterations or repairs. By learning how to bustle the dress yourself, you can avoid these extra costs and ensure your dress stays in great condition.
Finally, bustling a wedding dress is a practical consideration for the bride’s comfort and safety. A long train can pose a tripping hazard, and bustling ensures that the dress stays off the ground and out of harm’s way. By securing the train to the back of the dress, the bride can dance, move around, and enjoy her day without any fear of accidents or mishaps.
Now that we know why bustling a wedding dress is so important, let’s dive into the different types of bustles available and how to add a bustle to your dress with tulle.
The Convenience Factor
One of the primary reasons to bustle a wedding dress with tulle is the convenience factor. Without a bustle, the long train of the dress can get in the way when you’re trying to move around, dance, or even go to the bathroom. Having a bustle allows you to move around more freely and comfortably.
When the train of your dress is bustled, you won’t have to worry about tripping or stepping on it, which can be a real concern during the reception. Plus, it allows you to show off your gorgeous wedding dress in all its glory, both with the train down and bustled up.
Bustling your dress also helps to protect it from getting dirty or damaged. A long train that drags on the ground can pick up dirt, grass stains, and other debris. By busting it up, you can keep your dress looking clean and pristine throughout your big day.
- Less Worries: With a bustle, you can move around freely without worrying about tripping or getting your dress dirty.
- Show Off: A bustle allows you to show off the full beauty of your wedding dress both with and without the train.
- Comfortable: Bustling your dress makes it easier to dance, walk, and move around without the added weight of a long train.
- Protects Your Dress: A bustle can help protect your dress from dirt, grass stains, and other damage.
- Reduces Stress: With a bustle, you can relax and enjoy your wedding day without worrying about your dress getting in the way.
- Easy to Use: Once you learn how to bustle your dress, it’s easy to do and doesn’t require any special skills or tools.
Having a bustle in your wedding dress is a must for any bride who wants to enjoy her special day without worrying about the logistics of her dress. Keep reading to learn about the different types of bustles you can choose from and how to add a bustle to your dress with tulle.
To Showcase Your Dress Details
One of the primary reasons why bustling a wedding dress is important is that it allows you to showcase the beautiful details of your dress. When your gown is trailing behind you, it can be challenging for your guests to appreciate the intricate beading, lacework, or embroidery on the train.
By creating a bustle, you give your guests a chance to appreciate the stunning details of your dress. They’ll be able to admire the workmanship and artistry of the gown and appreciate the effort that went into choosing the perfect wedding dress.
Moreover, when the train of your dress is secured, it’s less likely to get tangled or damaged as you move around. By bustling your dress, you can keep your gown looking as beautiful at the end of the night as it did at the beginning of the ceremony.
Overall, bustling your wedding dress is an excellent way to make sure that your dress looks its best throughout the entire day. It’s an opportunity to showcase the details of your gown, keep it safe, and ensure that you look flawless from the moment you walk down the aisle to the last dance of the night.
If you’re still not convinced that bustling is necessary, consider this: you’ll be more comfortable and free to move around without a train trailing behind you. Plus, you’ll avoid tripping and falling while navigating stairs or uneven surfaces.
For Safety Reasons
Bustling a wedding dress is not just about making it easier for the bride to move around and dance during the reception, but it’s also for safety reasons. A long, flowing train can be a tripping hazard, and it’s not uncommon for brides to accidentally step on their dress and fall.
By bustling the dress, the train is lifted off the ground, eliminating the risk of tripping and making it safer for the bride to walk around without having to worry about her dress getting in the way.
Additionally, bustling your wedding dress can help keep it in good condition. Dragging a long train along the ground can cause dirt, dust, and other debris to accumulate on the dress, which can be difficult to clean.
Overall, bustling your wedding dress is an important safety measure that can also help keep your dress in good condition.
Types of Bustles for Wedding Dresses
If you want to bustle your wedding dress, you’ll need to know about the different types of bustles that are available. Each type of bustle has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the one you choose will depend on your dress’s style and your personal preferences. Here are three types of bustles you should know about:
Overbustle: This type of bustle is ideal for dresses with trains that have a lot of fabric. It involves picking up the train and attaching it to the outside of the dress, creating a cascade effect. Overbustles work well for ballgowns or A-line dresses with a lot of volume.
Underbustle: This type of bustle works well for dresses with lighter, flowing fabrics. Instead of attaching the train to the outside of the dress, the train is picked up and attached to the inside of the dress, creating a seamless look. Underbustles are great for sheath or mermaid dresses with a lighter train.
Bustle Points: This type of bustle uses buttons or hooks to gather up the train and attach it to specific points on the dress, creating a more structured look. This works well for dresses with a lot of detail on the back, such as lace or beading, as it allows those details to remain visible.
American Bustle
The American bustle, also known as the “over bustle,” is a popular choice for many wedding dresses. This type of bustle involves lifting up the train and fastening it to the outside of the dress, creating a beautiful and dramatic effect.
To achieve this style, a seamstress will sew small loops or ribbons onto the outside of the dress, which can be used to secure the train. The loops or ribbons are then attached to small hooks or buttons on the back of the dress.
The American bustle is a great option for dresses with long trains, as it allows for easy movement and dancing without worrying about tripping or getting caught on anything.
French Bustle
If you’re searching for a way to add some elegance to your wedding gown, consider a French bustle. This timeless style is perfect for brides who want to dance the night away without tripping on their train. A French bustle is created by tucking the train of the gown underneath the dress, which creates a beautiful and flowing silhouette.
The process of creating a French bustle involves carefully folding and pinning the train to the back of the dress, creating a series of elegant folds that create a sophisticated and refined look. One of the benefits of this style is that it allows you to move and dance with ease, without worrying about your train getting caught underfoot.
To achieve a flawless French bustle, it’s important to work with an experienced tailor who can create a bustle that complements your gown and flatters your figure. Make sure to have a trial fitting before the big day to ensure that you’re comfortable and confident in your gown. Don’t forget to bring along your wedding shoes, so that the hem of the dress can be altered to the perfect length.
- Choosing the right dress: Not all dresses are suitable for a French bustle, so it’s important to choose a gown that is well-suited to this style. Look for dresses that have a flowing train and a fitted waist, as these are the most flattering styles for this type of bustle.
- Working with a professional: To achieve a perfect French bustle, it’s important to work with a tailor who has experience creating this type of bustle. Ask for recommendations from your bridal salon or other brides who have had this style of bustle in the past.
- Practice walking: It’s important to practice walking in your gown before the big day, so that you can get used to the feel of the bustle and ensure that you’re comfortable moving around in it.
- Accessorize wisely: French bustles look best with simple and understated accessories, such as a delicate veil or simple jewelry. Avoid over-accessorizing, as this can detract from the beauty of the bustle.
- Have a backup plan: While French bustles are generally very secure, it’s always a good idea to have a backup plan in case something goes wrong. Bring along some safety pins or other fasteners, just in case.
- Enjoy your day: Finally, remember to enjoy your special day and revel in the beauty of your gown. A French bustle is the perfect way to add a touch of timeless elegance to your wedding day look.
A French bustle is a beautiful and timeless way to add some sophistication to your wedding day look. By choosing the right dress, working with a professional tailor, and practicing your walk, you can ensure that your French bustle looks flawless and allows you to dance the night away in style. With a little preparation and attention to detail, your French bustle is sure to be a showstopper on your special day.
How to Add a Bustle to a Wedding Dress with Tulle
Bustles are an elegant and practical addition to a wedding dress, allowing the bride to comfortably move around and dance without tripping on the train. If you have a tulle wedding dress, adding a bustle can be a bit more challenging compared to other fabrics. However, with the right technique and tools, it can be done easily.
The first step is to determine the style of bustle you want. With a tulle dress, the most popular style is the underbustle, where the train is secured underneath the dress. You can also opt for the overbustle, where the train is lifted up and secured on top of the dress.
Next, you will need to gather the necessary tools, including thread, scissors, needles, and bustle buttons. You can purchase bustle buttons from a fabric store or online. They are small metal loops that attach to the dress and hold the bustle in place.
Once you have your tools, it’s time to start adding the bustle. First, put on your dress and have someone help you mark where you want the bustle to be attached. You can use safety pins or chalk to mark the spots.
Next, sew the bustle buttons onto the dress at the marked spots. Make sure to reinforce the stitches to ensure they can support the weight of the train. Then, using the same thread, create loops on the underside of the train that correspond with the buttons.
Finally, test out the bustle to make sure it’s secure and that the train is lifted to your desired height. Adjust as necessary and trim any excess thread. With a bit of patience and practice, you can easily add a beautiful bustle to your tulle wedding dress.
Step 1: Determine the Bustle Style
Before adding a bustle to your wedding dress, you must determine the style you want. There are several styles to choose from, including the French bustle, American bustle, and Ballroom bustle.
The French bustle involves attaching buttons and loops to the underside of the train to pull it up and secure it at the back of the dress. The American bustle, on the other hand, involves using ribbons or ties to create a loop underneath the train, lifting it up and securing it to the back of the dress. Finally, the Ballroom bustle, which is also known as the over bustle, pulls the train up and over the back of the dress.
Choose the bustle style that you prefer and make sure to consult with your seamstress to determine the best option for your dress style and fabric.
Tips for Busting a Wedding Dress with Tulle
Practice bustling your dress before the big day: It’s important to practice bustling your wedding dress with tulle to ensure that you can do it quickly and easily on the day of the wedding. Enlist the help of a friend or family member to practice.
Bring your bustle to your final fitting: Bring your bustle to your final wedding dress fitting to ensure that it fits perfectly and that the tailor has time to make any necessary adjustments.
Choose a bustle style that complements your dress: Choose a bustle style that complements the style of your wedding dress. There are several different styles of bustles to choose from, including French, American, and ballroom.
Consider hiring a professional: If you’re not confident in your bustling skills or if your dress is particularly complex, consider hiring a professional seamstress or tailor to bustle your dress for you.
Bring a bustle helper to the wedding: Ask a bridesmaid or a trusted friend to help you bustle your dress at the wedding. This way, you won’t have to worry about bustling your dress on your own and can focus on enjoying your special day.
Ensure You Have the Right Supplies
Before you start busting your wedding dress with tulle, you need to make sure you have the right supplies. Here are the supplies you’ll need:
- Tulle fabric: The amount you need depends on the size of your wedding dress and the bustle style you choose. Typically, you’ll need about 3 to 5 yards of tulle fabric.
- Needle and thread: Use a thread that matches the color of your wedding dress. You can also use a sewing machine if you’re comfortable with it.
- Pins: You’ll need to pin the tulle in place before sewing it to your dress.
- Scissors: Use sharp scissors to cut the tulle fabric to the right size.
- Measuring tape: You’ll need to measure the length of your dress and the desired height of your bustle.
Once you have all of the necessary supplies, you’re ready to start busting your wedding dress with tulle.
Practice Before the Big Day
Set up a trial run: Schedule a time to practice bustling the dress before the wedding day to ensure you have the right technique.
Get a friend to help: Have someone assist you during the trial run, and make sure they will also be available on the wedding day.
Practice with the shoes: Wear the same shoes you plan to wear on your wedding day to ensure the bustle falls at the right length.
Time yourself: Take note of how long it takes to bustle the dress during the trial run, so you can budget enough time on the wedding day.
Practice different scenarios: Try bustling the dress while standing, sitting, and walking to make sure it stays in place in all situations.
Practicing bustling your wedding dress before the big day will help you feel confident and prepared, and will ensure that everything runs smoothly on your special day.
Enlist the Help of a Professional
If you’re not confident in your ability to bustle your wedding dress, or if you simply don’t want to deal with the hassle, consider enlisting the help of a professional. A seamstress or tailor with experience in wedding dress alterations can ensure that your bustle looks perfect on your big day.
When choosing a professional, look for someone who has experience working with tulle and who has positive reviews from previous clients. It’s also a good idea to schedule a consultation before booking any services, so you can get an idea of their pricing and timeline.
Remember that while hiring a professional may cost more than doing it yourself, it can provide peace of mind and ensure that your dress looks flawless on your wedding day. So if you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Bustling a Wedding Dress with Tulle
Not practicing enough: One of the biggest mistakes brides make is not practicing bustling their wedding dress with tulle enough before the big day. This can lead to a lot of stress and frustration when you’re trying to figure it out on your wedding day.
Choosing the wrong bustle style: Another common mistake is choosing the wrong bustle style for your dress. Make sure you consider the style and fabric of your dress when selecting a bustle.
Rushing the process: Bustling a wedding dress with tulle takes time and patience. Rushing the process can result in mistakes, so take your time and don’t feel pressured to finish quickly.
Waiting Until the Last Minute
Plan ahead: Don’t leave bustle alterations until the last minute. Start early so that you have time to get any necessary alterations and practice bustling the dress.
Time management: Waiting until the last minute to bustle your wedding dress with tulle can add unnecessary stress and anxiety on your big day. Make sure you manage your time effectively to avoid any last-minute rush.
Allow enough time: You don’t want to be scrambling to bustle your dress right before the reception starts. Allow enough time to practice bustling your dress and ensure that you can do it quickly and easily when the time comes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a bustle and why is it necessary for a wedding dress?
A bustle is a technique used to gather and lift the train of a wedding dress off the ground. It is necessary for a wedding dress because it makes it easier for the bride to move around and dance at the reception without tripping on the train.
What supplies do you need to bustle a wedding dress with tulle?
The supplies you need to bustle a wedding dress with tulle include scissors, thread, a needle, pins, and tulle fabric. You may also need a sewing machine, depending on the complexity of the bustle.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when bustling a wedding dress with tulle?
Common mistakes to avoid when bustling a wedding dress with tulle include waiting until the last minute to bustle the dress, not practicing before the big day, and using the wrong supplies or techniques. It’s also important to make sure the bustle is secure and won’t come undone during the reception.
How can you determine the best bustle style for your wedding dress?
You can determine the best bustle style for your wedding dress by considering the fabric, the length of the train, and your personal preference. You can also consult with a seamstress or bridal consultant for recommendations.
Is it possible to bustle a wedding dress with tulle without professional help?
Yes, it is possible to bustle a wedding dress with tulle without professional help, but it requires some sewing skills and practice. You can follow tutorials or seek guidance from friends or family members who are experienced in sewing.
What are some tips for successfully bustling a wedding dress with tulle?
Some tips for successfully bustling a wedding dress with tulle include ensuring you have the right supplies, practicing before the big day, enlisting the help of a professional if necessary, and making sure the bustle is secure and won’t come undone during the reception. It’s also important to consider the style and length of the dress when choosing a bustle technique.