How to Bustle Your Fit and Flare Wedding Dress Like a Pro – The Ultimate Guide
Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, and you want everything to be perfect. When it comes to your wedding dress, you’ve chosen a beautiful fit and flare style that accentuates your figure in all the right ways. However, as you start planning the logistics of the day, you realize that you’ll need to bustle your dress for the reception.
If you’re not familiar with the term, bustling a wedding dress simply means tying up the train or extra fabric at the back of the dress so that you can move around more easily during the reception. While it may seem like a daunting task, with a little bit of know-how, you can learn how to bustle your fit and flare wedding dress like a pro.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about bustling your dress. From the different types of bustles to choosing the right one for your dress style, we’ll give you all the tips and tricks you need to ensure that your dress stays secure and looks flawless all night long.
So whether you’re a bride-to-be or a bridesmaid helping out the bride, keep reading to learn how to bustle a fit and flare wedding dress like a pro!
Get familiar with the different types of bustles
When it comes to bustling a fit and flare wedding dress, it’s essential to know the different types of bustles available. A bustle is a sewing technique that gathers the train of your wedding dress and lifts it off the ground. This process is necessary to avoid tripping, and it also makes it easier to dance the night away without worrying about stepping on your dress. Here’s what you need to know about the different types of bustles:
American Bustle
The American bustle, also known as the over bustle, is a popular choice for many brides. It involves pulling the train up and securing it to the outside of the dress, creating a beautiful and seamless look. This type of bustle is ideal for dresses with detailed lace or beading on the train, as it allows the design to remain visible.
French Bustle
The French bustle, also known as the under bustle, is an elegant and sophisticated option. This type of bustle involves picking up the train of the dress and tucking it underneath, creating a beautiful cascade of fabric. It’s ideal for dresses with simple, clean lines or ones that feature a dramatic skirt.
Ballroom Bustle
- The Ballroom bustle is perfect for brides who want to dance the night away without worrying about their dress getting in the way. This type of bustle involves creating a loop with the train and securing it to the waist of the dress. It keeps the train out of the way while still looking stylish.
- The Ballroom bustle is also known as the under bustle, which makes it perfect for dresses with intricate detailing on the train. By hiding the bustle underneath, you can showcase the design of the dress without any distractions.
Now that you’re familiar with the different types of bustles, you can choose the one that suits your wedding dress the best. Each type of bustle offers a unique look and function, so take your time and consider which one will work best for your big day.
Choose the right bustle for your dress style
Once you are familiar with the different types of bustles available, the next step is to choose the right one for your dress style. This can be overwhelming, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a bustle for your fit and flare wedding dress:
Dress length and train: The length and style of your dress train will determine the type of bustle that will work best for you. A longer train will require a more elaborate bustle while a shorter train may only require a simple one.
Fabric: The type of fabric your dress is made of will also play a role in the type of bustle you choose. A heavier fabric like satin may require a more structured bustle, while a lighter fabric like chiffon may require a more delicate one.
Overall style: The overall style of your dress will also influence the type of bustle you choose. A dress with intricate details may require a bustle that highlights those details, while a simpler dress may only require a basic bustle.
Types of bustles for fit and flare dresses
- French bustle: This is the most popular and traditional type of bustle for a fit and flare wedding dress. It involves lifting the train and securing it with buttons or ribbons underneath the back of the dress.
- American bustle: This is a more modern style that involves lifting the train and securing it with hooks or loops on the outside of the dress.
- Ballroom bustle: This style involves lifting the train and securing it with buttons or hooks in a horizontal pattern, creating a cascading effect.
Considerations for different dress styles
Mermaid or trumpet: For these styles, a French bustle is usually the best option as it allows the train to be lifted and secured without altering the shape of the dress.
A-line: A ballroom bustle or a French bustle will work well with this style, as they create a beautiful cascading effect that complements the flowy silhouette of the dress.
Sheath: A simple French bustle or an American bustle will work best with this style as they won’t interfere with the clean lines of the dress.
Choosing the right bustle for your fit and flare wedding dress is crucial for achieving the perfect look and feel on your big day. Take your time and consider all of the factors we’ve discussed to ensure that you choose the right one for you.
Consult with a professional seamstress or tailor
If you’re still unsure about which bustle would be the best fit for your wedding dress, don’t hesitate to consult with a professional seamstress or tailor. These professionals have years of experience and can guide you through the process of selecting the perfect bustle for your dress.
They can also make any necessary alterations to your dress and ensure that the bustle fits perfectly with the overall look and feel of your gown. It’s important to schedule a consultation with your chosen seamstress or tailor well in advance of your wedding day to allow for any necessary fittings or adjustments.
Questions to ask during your consultation
- What type of bustle would work best with my dress style?
- How long will the bustle take to create?
- Can you provide me with references or photos of previous bustle work?
What to bring to your consultation
Before your consultation, make sure to bring the following items with you:
- Your wedding dress
- The shoes you’ll be wearing on your wedding day
- Any accessories you plan on wearing with your dress
By bringing these items with you, your seamstress or tailor will be able to get a better understanding of the overall look and feel you’re trying to achieve, which will help them recommend the best bustle option for your dress.
Learn how to secure the bustle properly
Once your dress has been bustled, it’s important to secure it properly to ensure it stays in place throughout the event. Here are some tips:
Tip 1: Practice beforehand – Before the big day, practice bustling your dress and securing it in place. This will give you a chance to get comfortable with the process and make any necessary adjustments to the bustle.
Securing the Bustle with Hooks
If your dress is bustled with hooks, follow these steps to secure it:
- Step 1: Locate the hooks and loops on your dress.
- Step 2: Gather the train of your dress and lift it up to the desired height.
- Step 3: Attach the hooks to the corresponding loops to secure the bustle in place.
Securing the Bustle with Buttons
If your dress is bustled with buttons, follow these steps to secure it:
- Step 1: Locate the buttons and corresponding buttonholes on your dress.
- Step 2: Gather the train of your dress and lift it up to the desired height.
- Step 3: Fasten the buttons through the corresponding buttonholes to secure the bustle in place.
Securing the Bustle with Ties
If your dress is bustled with ties, follow these steps to secure it:
- Step 1: Locate the ties on your dress.
- Step 2: Gather the train of your dress and lift it up to the desired height.
- Step 3: Tie the ties securely to hold the bustle in place.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your bustle stays secure and your dress looks flawless throughout your event.
Practice bustling your dress before the big day
Bustling a wedding dress can be tricky, but with some practice, you can master it in no time. Before the big day, it’s important to have a few trial runs to ensure you know how to properly secure your bustle.
Here are some tips to help you practice bustling your dress:
Practice with your seamstress
Schedule a fitting appointment with your seamstress and have her show you how to bustle your dress. Take note of how she secures the bustle and ask any questions you may have. Practice a few times with her until you feel comfortable doing it on your own.
Involve your bridesmaids
Your bridesmaids can be a huge help when it comes to bustling your dress. Have them practice with you during your dress fittings or at your bridal shower. The more people you have helping you, the easier it will be on the big day.
Do a trial run
A week or two before the wedding, set aside some time to do a trial run. Put on your dress and practice bustling it on your own. Have a trusted friend or family member watch you and offer any tips or feedback. It’s better to work out any kinks before the actual wedding day.
Discover tips and tricks to keep your bustle looking flawless all night
Wedding dresses are stunning and intricate garments, but they can also be quite cumbersome to move around in, especially when it comes to dancing at the reception. That’s where the bustle comes in – a simple and elegant solution to keep your dress out of your way while you dance the night away. But how can you ensure that your bustle stays secure and flawless all night long? Here are some tips and tricks to help you.
Firstly, make sure that your bustle is sewn securely onto your dress, and that it’s the right length for your dress and your height. Test out the bustle with your dressmaker or seamstress before the big day to make sure that it’s comfortable and that it stays in place. You don’t want any wardrobe malfunctions while you’re on the dance floor!
Choose the right type of bustle for your dress
Not all wedding dresses are created equal, and neither are their bustles. There are several different types of bustles that you can choose from, including the French bustle, the American bustle, and the ballroom bustle. Each type of bustle has its own unique style and method of securing the train of your dress. Consider the type of dress you have and your personal style when choosing the right type of bustle for you.
Use a bustle hook to keep your bustle in place
A bustle hook is a small but mighty accessory that can make all the difference in keeping your bustle secure throughout the night. It’s a small hook that attaches to the back of your dress, and it hooks onto a loop or button on the train of your dress. This helps to distribute the weight of your train and prevent it from pulling down on your bustle. Make sure to test out the hook and loop or button before the big day to make sure that it’s secure and easy to use.
Bring a sewing kit with you
Even with the best preparations, accidents can still happen. That’s why it’s always a good idea to bring a small sewing kit with you on your wedding day. Pack some safety pins, extra thread, and a needle in case your bustle or any other part of your dress needs a quick fix. This will give you peace of mind and ensure that you can keep dancing the night away without any interruptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you bustle a fit and flare wedding dress?
To bustle a fit and flare wedding dress, first, gather the train of the dress and lift it up. Then, find the designated bustle points and secure them with hooks or buttons to the corresponding points on the dress. Make sure to test the bustle to ensure that it is secure and comfortable before wearing it.
How many bustle points does a fit and flare wedding dress typically have?
The number of bustle points on a fit and flare wedding dress can vary depending on the design of the dress. Typically, a fit and flare dress will have between one to five bustle points.
Can you bustle a fit and flare wedding dress yourself?
While it is possible to bustle a fit and flare wedding dress yourself, it is recommended that you seek the assistance of a professional seamstress or someone who is experienced in bustling wedding dresses. This will ensure that the bustle is secure and will not come undone throughout the night.
How long does it take to bustle a fit and flare wedding dress?
The time it takes to bustle a fit and flare wedding dress can vary depending on the complexity of the bustle and the number of bustle points. On average, it can take anywhere from 5-15 minutes to properly bustle a fit and flare wedding dress.
Will a bustle affect the overall look of my fit and flare wedding dress?
A properly done bustle should not affect the overall look of your fit and flare wedding dress. In fact, a bustle can enhance the design of the dress and make it more functional for dancing and walking around during the reception.
How do I care for my bustle after the wedding?
After the wedding, it is important to properly care for your bustle. Follow the care instructions provided by your seamstress or dress designer, as well as any specific care instructions for the fabric of your dress. It is also a good idea to have your dress professionally cleaned and preserved to ensure that your bustle and dress remain in good condition for years to come.