I am sorry to say that I have encountered many (too many) brides who wished to dance the night away but the gown simply got in the way. It’s a bummer when those emergency tool kits come out. So let’s talk bustle. Depending on your dress and its’ maker can certainly add ease. Let’s say your wearing a sweet sophisticated tea length gown- we’ve got nothing to worry about. More than likely though the chapel length will be your choice. It’s most preferred because it makes a statement without Princess Diana’s 20 flower girls. So we have two well-known choices: French or Ballroom. The Ballroom bustle simply lifts the train onto the back of the gown. The train is often attached with buttons or mini-hooks. It’s pretty and simple (and somewhat unstable). The French bustle lifts the top layer of the gown under itself and allows for a billowy look. The French bustle attaches underneath in a variety of ways: hooks, clothe ties or buttons. French has a bit more pizzazz. You will need to consider the additional cost of the bustle because, unless stated from the start, it can add upwards of $150. Do not, I repeat do not go with a discount bustle! The stitch kit may have to come out on the dance floor if something goes south. Ideally, and from my experience, the French bustle is sublime. You’ll have to take your mom or wedding consultant to go over the details of “how to” before for the big day (this is a group project- promise). So let me tell you my little secret- take a handful of markers to the tailor. Each string that ties unto the other can be color coded (right bottom to right top, orange and so forth). You won’t see it but your handy helper will. My two cents might cost two hundred dollars but as they say “bustle; $150; flowers: $2,000; dancing the night away at your reception: priceless”.
PS If you are bored with the standard options try an Austrian bustle. It’s a lovely option for satin dresses or chiffon overlays. Ribbon is added easily before the reception and the when knotted at the end your gown will be gather and fluted- cheers!
