Of backs & bustles

Last post, I wrote about beautiful backs on wedding gowns. Following that "train" of thought (pun intended), let's chat about bustles.

Often, when a bride finds a dress she likes in our boutique, one of her first questions will be, "How does it bustle?" Well, there isn't always a simple answer to that, as most dresses have several bustling options. Here are three popular ones explained: (Some styles go by several names, I am using the names we use at September's Bride)

1. Traditional. The lower part of the skirt and train are pulled up over top of the upper skirt and fastened with a series of hooks. This looks a little like a waterfall effect. This option works for most gowns and has remained popular for decades.

2. French. This bustle option has become popular in the last five years or so. In this version, the lower part of the skirt and the train are attached under the upper part of the skirt with hooks or ribbons and the skirt "bubbles" in the back. The look is somewhat similiar to a "pick-up skirt". This option is good for plain skirts and for those with a border. This is the most costly bustle, and will take the longest for your attendants to do. But, it can look FANTASTIC!

3. Ballgown. This option is good for small trains and slimmer A-line skirts. The entire train is folded up under the skirt so that it "disappears". This is a sophisticated option that is becoming more popular, but I have also seen it on vintage dresses, too.

Of course, each style above can be done in many ways, too. When you choose your dress, get an idea of the bustle you like. Look through magazines at different bustles. Typically, the bustle is not decided upon until your first or second fitting with the seamstress. She can be your biggest help in knowing what will work and look best on your particular gown. Also, it is helpful to bring your Mom, MOH, or personal attendant along to your final fitting so that your seamstress can show her how to bustle your gown properly.

The photo above is from Amy Carroll's blog. The maids are putting a French bustle into the bride's gown. If you want more information with lots of photos, check out this page; note that some of her bustle names are different than I mentioned, but the concept is the same!

September's Bride...a fresh approach to formal.