If you’ve been dreaming about your wedding day, you’ve probably pictured yourself walking down the aisle in your dream wedding dress. But here’s a little secret: the dress doesn’t just need to shine during the ceremony - it needs to keep up with you throughout the entire celebration. That’s where the bustle comes in!
Bustles are about transforming your bridal gown from ceremony ready to comfortable reception ready style. If you want to dance the night away without tripping over your dress, understanding the different bustle styles is key. Let’s dive in and explore the options!
What Is a Wedding Dress Bustle?
In simple terms, a bustle is a way to lift and secure the train of your wedding dress after the ceremony. It keeps the fabric off the floor, so you don’t have to worry about stepping on it or getting tangled while you eat, dance, and mingle. Think of it as the dress’s best friend for the reception!
Types of Wedding Dress Bustles
There are several bustle styles, each with unique benefits depending on your dress design and your preferences. Here are the most popular types:
1. Over-Bustle
This bustle lifts the train over the back of the dress and secures it higher up near the waist or hips. It’s perfect if your dress has a long, flowing train you want to keep elegantly gathered at the back. Plus, it gives a beautiful, classic silhouette for your reception photos.
2. Under-Bustle
The under-bustle gathers the train underneath the dress, attaching it discreetly to the underskirt. This style is great if you want the back of your dress to appear smooth and seamless without extra fabric gathered on top. It’s elegant and often more comfortable for dancing.
3. Side Bustle
Instead of gathering the train straight back, a side bustle pulls it up to one side, usually the hip or thigh. This bustle style adds a bit of flair and asymmetry and works well for dresses with asymmetrical or layered trains.
4. Ballroom Bustle
Designed for fuller ball gown styles, this bustle lifts the train and layers it into multiple folds or drapes, often using buttons or ribbons. It’s dramatic and gorgeous, giving a whole new shape to your gown after the ceremony.
5. Loop Bustle
Some dresses come with small loops sewn on the train’s underside that hook onto buttons on the back of the dress. This simple, quick bustle style is perfect for brides who want a fuss-free option.
Bustle Care Tips for Your Wedding Day
First of all, it’s helpful to have your maid of honor or a trusted friend practice with you on how to bustle your dress. Bring a small sewing kit or emergency kit to your reception in case a button or loop comes loose. And if you’re hiring a wedding day coordinator, ask if they can help bustle your gown before the dancing starts.
Here at Crystal Bridal Boutique, we want your wedding day to be as magical and stress-free as possible! That’s why we offer one on one bridal appointments where we guide you through each detail, including offering guidance on bustles. Whether you’re still shopping or getting ready for your final fitting, our stylists are here to help you find the perfect dress and bustle style that suits your vision.
Ready to get started? Book your bridal appointment with us today!