To Bustle, or not to Bustle?

Some brides have some apprehensions about bustles and whether or not they want one, or if the one they have in mind will look they way they want.  Here at The Bustle our seamstresses can tell you what sort of bustle would work best on your gown based on the fabric of the gown, the detail of the gown, and what you gravitate toward. 🙂 Below are a few different ways to take up your train depending on your dress and style.

The English Bustle

The English bustle, or over bustle,  works great if you would like to show off some bead work or lace on your train!  It also complements mermaid dresses very well.  “Eyes” and “hooks” must be added for this type of bustle; the “eyes” are placed along the waistline while the hooks are down along the back of the dress.

Here is a Great Example of an Over Bustle!

 The French Bustle

Another great option is the under bustle or French/Victorian bustle.  This works well for gowns with no waistline or have a lot of detail going on in the back area.  It creates a more traditional look and more volume to the gown.  It is perfect for a ballgown or A-line, especially if it already has decorative pick ups.

Here is an Example of an Under Bustle!

Austrian Bustle

 While different and uncommon, the still beautiful Austrian bustle is created by running a ribbon through a back seam and pulling it through, creating a casing.

Beautiful Austrian Buslte!

The Loop

Though this is not technically a bustle, it is still an attractive way to keep your train off the ground for your reception.  Brides who have a train but would like to skip the bustle, can attatch a loop at the end of the train underneath, and simply put it on their wrist-a very romantic look. Some gowns even come with a loop underneath their train already!

Sweet and Old-Fashioned Way to Keep Your Train Off the Floor at Your Reception!

It’s a good idea to keep in mind which bustles will work best for your gown.  If you want to show off some amazing lace or beautiful beading on your gown the the over bustle is a good option. If you have a ballgown or A-line, the under bustle is a great pick.  All in all, each option creates a beautiful bustle for any bride.

 Which bustle will you go with?!

A little help from our friends…

… aka awesome brides 🙂

After each appointment I learn something new from each bride- a new way to bustle, a new sleeve addition, hidden emerging trends and even a way to re-use a wedding gown after the wedding. But the most important thing I learn from my brides, is what kind of wedding gown they want. There are a few things that are very consistent.  You learn so much about your bride in the first 10 minutes of the appointment and those crucial 10 minutes should help pick the perfect gown.  Here are a few guidelines on how to prep for your first gown appointment!

Your first appointment should be the best appointment! It is so exciting and so special in every way.  But…what are you looking for? What style? What shape? All of these questions run through your head and you might not have any idea of what you might like.  Stay true to your everyday style.  If you are not a flashy girl, don’t consider something too bling-y.  If you are one of romance, perhaps lace is an option. Ask yourself these few questions. They always help me, as a consultant, to weed out the gowns that are definitely not for my bride.

-Do you like sparkle/bling/beading?

-Lace or no lace?

^ those two questions are gold! ^

-What do you wear when you go out? to an event? or on a girls night?

-Any material that you just hate? (hate is a strong word.. but this is important ladies! 🙂 ) Organza? Satin? Taffeta?

-On your wedding day: Is it a formal affair? Laid back beach? Rustic farm? Are you a dancer? (Some materials look better in certain settings-your consultant should know what works best for each situation)

-Bring pictures! Sometimes a single picture will lead me to the exact gown that I KNOW will be the one.

I think those cover it! The shapes of gowns look different on each girl, so it really is just a matter of preference.  Once you start trying on gowns, you will see what you like or dislike.

And I always say this… don’t be surprised if the first gown you put on is YOUR gown! 🙂 If you have a knowledgable consultant, she should be able to pick it out on the first try. 😉

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.