The Bustle: French or English?

Some of you might eliminate a possible contender because of its train length.  Well do not fear! The length of your train, no matter how long, can be bustled up and you do not have to worry about it dragging along behind you during your reception. Sometimes the train of a gown can really make an impact and it is mostly only visible during your ceremony and for a few pictures. Once it’s time to get your grooooove on, the right seamstress will create a flawless bustle unique to your wedding gown.

The bustle is created during your alterations and each seamstress should show you your different options for which bustle will work for your gown.  There are two main bustle designs: The French Bustle tucks the train underneath itself; The English Bustle buttons the train over itself.  Make sure to bring your mom or maid of honor to learn how to button you up because they will be the ones to bustle your train before the party begins!

American Bustle

The English Bustle, as mentioned, buttons or ties the train on top of itself.  That does sound silly, but it makes sense when you see it. The material, weight and length of your train will determine how many loops and buttons will be needed to create a sound and strong structure. The buttons are usually clear so they won’t interfere with the design of your dress.  You can have as little as one point to lift your bustle or as many as five.  The picture shows a traditional single point bustle, but be aware that sometimes single pointed bustles might not be strong enough.  So, if you need an “over” bustle, ask for three points or more reinforcement!

The French Bustle serves that same function, just done differently.  You can get as creative with it as you do with the English style.  This time your train tucks underneath the gown layers and any ribbons or buttons are completely hidden.  This look is very popular with ballgowns which

French Bustle

already have pick ups.  This way the bustle just flows with the gown design.  Unlike the single layer in an English Bustle, the French allows you to create even two layers of bustling underneath.  The example shows a very creative and fun spin on the “under” idea. Even though some may lean towards this style, just remember that each dress is different and a French Bustle might not work.

And do not be afraid of getting creative! I have seen all kinds of bustles, sometimes even combining the French and English in one! Believe us, The Bustle rocks. 😉

Which bustle will you/did you choose?

The Bustle and The Bridal Insider present Beautiful Bride – From Head to Toe!

Mark your calendars ladies! Bridal Insider and The Bustle will be hosting a workshop designed to help our brides-to-be prepare for their wedding day!

This workshop will help all of our brides determine what style of dress is perfect for them.  We will show all of you different styles ranging from ballgowns to mermaids and destinations.  Different silhouettes, necklines and materials might determine which dress is perfect for you. 

We all know the day does not end with just the dress.  Here at The Bustle we will make sure to go over different veil lengths (the benefits of wearing a veil), tiaras, hand made silk flowers, and all of the amazing accessories that we get to play with! Our local designer Somsi Couture helps create amazing gowns exclusively for our shop, along with veils and one of a kind hair pieces. 

When should you start shopping? ASAP! Most people do not realize how long it takes for gowns to come in and get made.  Our advice? Its better to order your gown a year ahead of time rather than only a few months (avoiding rush fees 🙂 ).

Ok, so we picked out your dress and accessories. You’re done right? Well, most (actually almost all) wedding gowns need a hem and a bustle.  Luckily here at The Bustle we offer this service for our brides as well.  During our workshop we will go over which alterations are necessary and which are optional.  The price of alterations can be a shocker if you don’t alter your clothes regularly, so we definitely plan on prepping you to the very last detail!

Have you asked your hair stylist if she does wedding hairstyles? Most say “I don’t DO weddings” as if its a bad thing. Well WE DO weddings.  At the workshop we will also talk to you about your hair and make up options for your wedding day.  Here at The Bustle in particular, our stylists are all certified and experienced.  They come here to the shop and we organize it all! For your wedding day they even travel out to your wedding location and can beautify your entire wedding party! We will be able to explain all of your options as those last few critical months before the big day creep up!

Time and date are August 30, 2011 at 6:00pm – 8:00pm right here at The Bustle. As there will be a limited number of attendees please contact The Bridal Insider for more information coming soon and registration.

Hello world!

Welcome to The Bustle blog! We are a beautiful bridal boutique located in Del Mar California. From the moment you step into our cute boutique we offer champagne and cakes for our guests, followed by smiles from our wonderful bridal consultants. Along with finding you your perfect wedding gown, we also offer hair and make up services exclusively for brides and their wedding parties.  After experiencing a great trial, our hand picked stylists travel out to your wedding location making you look beautiful for your wedding day.  Along with hair and make up we offer on-site alterations to make sure your dress fits like a glove! Each one of these services allows us to form a relationship, that in some cases, last a lifetime! Its more than just a dress, it is a friendship.