If you’re planning your wedding look, you might have come across the term “bustle” and wondered, firstly, “What the heck is a bustle?” and then “What’s the point of a bustle?” Great questions! Wedding dresses, especially those with long trains, are all about drama, elegance, and making you feel like royalty. But while a grand train looks stunning during your walk down the aisle, it can quickly become a hassle when it’s time to dance, greet guests, or move around easily. That’s where the bustle comes in!
At Lily’s Boutique, we believe a bustle should be as practical as it is pretty, and we’re here to make sure it blends seamlessly with your dress design. Whether your gown has a sweeping chapel train or a subtle sweep, a bustle will let you transition from ceremony to celebration without worrying about tripping over your dress or having someone accidentally step on it. Here’s everything you need to know about why bustles are so popular and how they can add some convenience to your big day.
What exactly is a bustle?
A bustle is essentially a clever way of lifting your train off the floor so that it doesn’t drag. Typically, this involves pinning, hooking, or buttoning the train up to the back of the dress. While it might sound simple, bustles are designed with careful thought to complement the dress’s style, ensuring it still looks elegant and glamorous after being pinned up.
In the past, brides used to have a small loop sewn onto the end of their train, which they would then hook around their wrist when they needed to move around. While charming in its simplicity, this technique isn’t always practical – it can make dancing or greeting guests a bit awkward. Modern bustles are designed to be hands-free and practically invisible, allowing you to enjoy your wedding day fully without thinking about your train.
Why do I need a bustle?
There tend to be three main reasons why brides choose to add a bustle to their wedding gown:
Freedom to dance
You don’t want to hold back on the dance floor! Whether you’re doing a waltz as your first dance or just grooving with family and friends, a bustle keeps your train out of the way so you can move freely without the fear of tripping or snagging your dress.
Keeping the dress clean
Wedding venues can have a mix of flooring, from carpets and polished floors to outdoor areas. Without a bustle, a floor-length train can easily pick up dust and dirt as you move. Bustling your dress helps keep it off the ground, meaning it stays cleaner and looking fresh throughout the celebration.
Preventing accidents
With a long train trailing behind, there’s a higher chance someone could accidentally step on it, or it could get caught on something. A bustle keeps your dress closer to your body, preventing anyone from tripping over it, which is especially helpful in a crowded reception!
What are the different types of bustles, and which one is right for you?
At Lily’s Boutique, we offer different types of bustles, depending on the style of your dress and the length of your train.
Internal bustle (under bustle)
This type is perfect for dresses with longer, fuller trains. An internal bustle works from underneath the dress, giving it a more seamless, tucked-in look. We add discreet hooks or ribbons under the dress fabric, which allow the train to be lifted and secured without affecting the dress’s outward appearance. Internal bustles are fantastic for maintaining a clean, polished look, and they work especially well with lace or tulle.
External bustle
For dresses with shorter, lighter trains, an external bustle is a great option. This style uses a button or hook on the outside of the dress, allowing the train to be folded up onto the back of the gown. External bustles create a pretty, draped effect that can look like a natural part of the design. Plus, they’re easy to attach with a single button or hook, making them an ideal choice if you want something simple and stylish.
How does it work on the big day?
On the day of your wedding, the last thing you want is to worry about remembering all the small details. That’s why, at your final fitting, we’ll walk your maid of honour, mom, (or anyone else you choose!) through exactly how to fasten your bustle. We’ll show them how it works so that when it’s time to put it up, it’ll only take a moment, and you won’t have to stress about a thing.
Bustles are designed to be easy and intuitive, meaning it should take just a minute or two to secure your dress. So, after you’ve walked down the aisle and taken those iconic photos, your helper can come over and quickly fasten your train up, transforming your gown from ceremonial elegance to reception-ready in a flash!
Does every dress need a bustle?
Not necessarily, if your gown doesn’t have a train or only has a very short one, you might not need a bustle at all. But for most traditional wedding dresses with even a modest train, a bustle adds invaluable practicality. At Lily’s Boutique, we’ll always discuss this with you at your fitting and recommend what we think is best for your specific dress. We believe your wedding gown should be beautiful and make you feel truly special, while also being comfortable, practical, and easy to care for.
Ready to find your dream dress? Book an appointment today!
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