We get asked all the time how to bustle our wedding gowns. There's no easy answer because it depends mostly on the style of the gown. Some wedding gownslookfine with the traditional over-bustle, where we just pick up the train and attach it just under the bum. Other wedding dresses are more ornate and require extra bustle points to the sides of the main one (to pick up pieces that drape onto the ground) or even need two tiers to show off all the beading.
Trumpet and mermaid wedding dresses are often the hardest to bustle while still keeping the beautiful fitted form. For these types of gowns, we often recommend a french under-bustle, where we tuck fabric up and under. Many curvy and plus sizebridessay they don't want more bulk added to their rear end, so the french bustle isanothergood option because theyoften lower on the skirt of the wedding gown.
I found some photos of a lace wedding gown with a french bustle and wanted to share them!
Side view:
Do you see how the low bustle still maintains the shape? Here's a view of the back:
Remember, bustles are added in alterations because they are based on your height and personal preferences. But your alterations person can pin the train a couple of ways to show you how your wedding gown could look. And, of course, you can always ask your Strut bridal consultant to show you options!
FAQs
For these types of gowns, we often recommend a french under-bustle, where we tuck fabric up and under. Many curvy and plus size brides say they don't want more bulk added to their rear end, so the french bustle is another good option because they often lower on the skirt of the wedding gown.
What is the difference between a mermaid dress and a trumpet dress? ›
MERMAID: WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE? It's all in the flared skirt! Trumpet wedding dresses flare at the thigh to elongate the legs. Mermaid wedding dresses flare at or below the knee, making for an even more dramatic silhouette and highlighting the torso with a long bodice.
How to make a bustle on a wedding gown? ›
Tuck the back of the skirt up and under your dress.
This will make your hem bubble and your skirt look fuller. Straighten out your dress, making sure that the back of it is lying as it should. You may need to have more than one point of attachment to make the bustled hem look natural.
How tight should a mermaid wedding dress be? ›
The fit of your mermaid dress is so important! The hips need to be tight enough to look good but still have enough ease to enable you to move freely and sit down.
What do you wear under a mermaid gown? ›
So for mermaid and trumpet style wedding dresses, we suggest choosing a high-waisted undergarment that enhances yet offers a seamless and smooth appearance from the chest to the knee. If your mermaid or trumpet style dress is a slip-like gown made of a clingy silk, we recommend butt lifter shaper shorts.
What shoes go best with mermaid gown? ›
Pointed Toe Heels
Again, because the only part of the shoe that might see any daylight is just the tip—embrace that with pointy toe heels. These come in different heel heights—even flats. Plus, if you're wearing pointed toe shoes, you don't have to get a pedicure. These can work well with both types of mermaid gowns.
What body type is best for mermaid wedding dress? ›
If you want to show off your curves a mermaid wedding dress is a great option. The style is particularly flattering for hourglass and pear-shaped body types. However, brides with an apple-shaped body structure or straight figure may not opt for the mermaid-style dress as it will not offer a flattering look.
How do you walk in a mermaid gown? ›
Hold the dress up: You can hold the bottom of the dress up with one hand while walking to avoid stepping on it. Alternatively, you can have a bustle added to the dress so that it can be pinned up for dancing or walking. Wear comfortable shoes: Wearing comfortable shoes is crucial when walking in a mermaid dress.
What body type looks good in a trumpet gown? ›
“A trumpet silhouette is ideal for slender frames and hourglass body types,” explains Bajaj. “Brides who want to flaunt their curves often pick this outfit.” It's also a crowd-pleaser for brides who want a more toned-down version of the mermaid, as it doesn't have an overly dramatic flare.
Who can wear a trumpet dress? ›
C) Who Should Wear a Trumpet Dress? The trumpet dress is an excellent option for brides who desire the allure of a mermaid gown but with a bit more comfort and ease of movement. If you have an hourglass, pear-shaped, or slender figure, the trumpet dress will highlight your curves while offering a touch of elegance.
The fitted bodice and flared skirt of a mermaid wedding dress are designed to hug the body in all the right places, creating a flattering and feminine shape. This style is particularly well-suited for brides with hourglass figures, as it emphasizes the waist and hips while also creating a dramatic and romantic look.
What is the best bustle for a line gown? ›
THE AMERICAN BUSTLE
According to Kamesha, American bustles are best suited for lace, chiffon or flowy dresses. If you have an A-line, mermaid or ball gown, an American bustle might be for you! PS: A bow bustle is an American bustle with a bow or sash to hide pickup points.
Who usually bustles the brides dress? ›
Bustles are often added during the alterations process based on the style, length, and design of the dress. Your seamstress or tailor will assess your gown and should discuss the bustle options with you. They will be able to determine the most suitable style and create the bustle based on your specific dress.
At what point do you bustle your wedding dress? ›
The best time to bustle the dress is after the bride and MOH get to the reception venue, before the bride and groom are introduced. It should only take three to five minutes if the MOH is fully engaged in the process.
Can you alter a mermaid dress to a line? ›
It's at least feasible! Your dress doesn't look like a true mermaid. Or a more defined mermaid gown where its super tight in the middle, so I think it will be possible to change it into an a-line. You should definitely consult with an seamstress or the shop where you purchased the gown.
How do you walk in a tight mermaid dress? ›
Hold the dress up: You can hold the bottom of the dress up with one hand while walking to avoid stepping on it. Alternatively, you can have a bustle added to the dress so that it can be pinned up for dancing or walking. Wear comfortable shoes: Wearing comfortable shoes is crucial when walking in a mermaid dress.
What do you do if your dress doesn't have a bustle? ›
Not all wedding gowns need a bustle
Other gowns may be constructed of a lightweight fabric that can be managed without a bustle. For instance, on some gowns a seamstress can attach a loop to the underside of the train which secures around your wrist. This lets you elegantly lift your gown while keeping your hands free.
