Wedding Dress Bustle 101: What is a Bustle & How to Bustle a Wedding Dress

If you're planning to wear a wedding dress with a train, you've probably heard the term bustle pop up during fittings or alterations. 

But what is a bustle for a wedding dress, and do you really need one? 

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about wedding dress bustles - from types of bustles and how they work, to before and after transformations and whether every gown can have one.

What is a Bustle

Let’s start with a quick bustle definition. A bustle is a way of lifting and securing the train of a wedding dress so that it’s off the ground and no longer trailing behind you. 

The purpose of a bustle is to make it easier to move around - especially for your wedding reception, first dance, and photos - without compromising the beauty of your gown.

So, what is a bustle dress? A bustle dress is simply a wedding gown that includes a bustle option, either built-in or added during alterations. Browse our wedding bustle FAQs here.

• How to bustle a wedding dress
• Bustled wedding dresses: before and after
• How to bustle a long train wedding dress
• Can you add a bustle to a wedding dress?
• What is a bustle for a wedding dress?
• Can you bustle a tulle wedding dress?
• Do all wedding dresses need a bustle?
• How long does it take to bustle a wedding dress?

How to Bustle a Wedding Dress

How do you bustle a wedding dress? This will depend on the type of bustle you choose. Here are a few different options for wedding dress bustles:

• Ballroom bustle: this type of wedding dress bustle folds the train or excess fabric under the skirt, so it's no longer visible. There are several attachment points added under the dress for a smoot and seamless appearance.
• Over-bustle: also known as the ‘American bustle’, hooks are attached to the outside of the gown, lifting the train over the skirt.
• Bow bustle: this type of bustle is perfect if you have a bow or sash on your dress, as it folds the fabric up and secures it under the waist detail to disguise the bustle. It will look like your fabric is picked up and flows down from your waist adornment.
• French bustle: also known as the ‘under-bustle’, ribbons are tied underneath the skirt, tucking the train under for a seamless look on the outside. 
• Royal bustle: also known as the 'Victorian bustle', this bustle method can vary depending on the nearlywed's wishes. You can use one pick up point, or multiple, to gather the train on the back of the dress. The folded volume then gives the appearance of a traditional Victorian dress with a bustle, hence the name. 

Unsure what type of bustle you’ll need? Speak to your wedding dress shop or your tailor, and they will advise the best type of bustle to suit your wedding dress.

Bustle Wedding Dress: Before & After

The transformation of a bustle wedding dress before and after can be dramatic. Before bustling, your train will trail behind you, perfect for walking down the aisle. 

After bustling, the train is lifted and styled - creating a beautiful, practical look that works for dancing and mingling. It's often a transformation your guests won’t even notice, if it’s done smoothly.

Your dress shop will likely walk you through how to bustle a wedding dress and may recommend rehearsing it before the big day. 

• Hitched tip: Many couples assign this job to a member of their wedding party or their wedding coordinator, so make sure you record the tutorial so they can watch it back if needed!

How to Bustle a Long Train Wedding Dress

A wedding dress with a long train, such as a cathedral or chapel-length train, can be bustled, but it may require multiple points or loops to support the weight. 

A professional tailor will reinforce these bustle points to make sure they stay secure all night long.

• Hitched tip: When deciding how to bustle a long train wedding dress, it’s essential to bring your wedding shoes to your fitting to ensure the bustle is placed at the right height.

Can you add a bustle to a wedding dress?

Yes, you can absolutely add a bustle to a wedding dress, even if it didn’t come with one. 

Most bustles are created during wedding dress alterations, which is why fittings are so important. 

Your tailor will match the bustle to your gown’s shape, train length, and fabric to make sure it complements your look.

What is a bustle for a wedding dress?

A wedding dress bustle is a clever and stylish alteration that helps convert your gown from ceremony to celebration mode. 

It allows the long train to be pinned, buttoned, or hooked up, creating a manageable silhouette that’s still elegant. 

In short, a bridal gown bustle helps you move with ease while preserving your look.

Many nearlyweds choose to bustle their gowns after the ceremony, particularly if the dress has a dramatic or cathedral-length bridal gown train.

Can you bustle a tulle wedding dress?

Tulle can be a little trickier to bustle because it’s delicate and sheer - but it doesn’t mean it’s not possible! 

A skilled tailor will know how to bustle a tulle wedding dress without damaging the fabric. 

Typically, they’ll use clear buttons, discreet loops, or ribbons hidden under layers of tulle. 

If you know you want to bustle your dress, make sure you ask the staff at your bridal shop if the dress can be bustled before you commit to it. 

Do all wedding gowns need a bustle?

Not necessarily. If your bridal gown train is short or detachable, you might not need a bustle at all. 

However, if you have a longer train and want to move freely at your reception, a wedding gown bustle is definitely worth considering.

How long does it take to bustle a wedding dress on the day?

Allow between five and 10 minutes for bustling your wedding dress on the day - depending on the number of bustle points and the style. 

Assign someone to help you with this, and make sure you have a tutorial on how to do it recorded and ready to share with them to save time!

A bustle is one of those behind-the-scenes wedding dress details that can make a big difference to your comfort and movement.

So, if you're wondering can you bustle a wedding dress or how to bustle a wedding dress, the answer is yes, and a good tailor or wedding dress shop team will help you choose the best option for your gown.

Ready to find someone to help? Browse the best bridal shops on Hitched here.