I am going to be making my wedding dress from an OOP Vogue pattern (2290) The skirt is slender, bias-cut, with a slight train (of the kind seen in current patterns 2801, 2774). My question is, with a short train like this, how should I handle bustling or holding up the train? I might lengthen it the train slightly, but by no means I do want anything nearing 10 yards of abundance! I’m also not going to be having any or ribbon detailing in which to hide little hooks and such…
We are probably getting married in November on a transaltantic crossing… and I don’t want a cute little train made from some pricey fabric (possibly cut or burnout velvet) getting soiled from jaunts on the deck! I’m just now starting the muslin to get everything perfect… so any ideas can be tried out there.
Any thoughts on good fabric houses would be nice to… although I’m also setting up an appointment with the best local fabric store I know (Denver Fabrics) to see what they might be able to special order for me.
Thanks!
Replies
With a narrow fitting skirt you do not have too many options for bustling. I would attach two ribbons to the inside center back seam, separated by whatever length you need to raise off the floor. You just have to play with where they go - you will have to keep the top one below the hip level probably. To bustle you just tie the two ribbons together tightly.
Another option is to add a loop on the center back seam (inside) and slip it over your wrist, holding it off the floor. This might be kind of a pain, but I adding a bustle (like tying the ribbons together as suggested) will make the narrow, bias dress pooch out on the sides in an unflattering way. So, make a "muslin" in a an inexpensive fabric with a drape as close as possible to your bridal fabric and play with it. Good luck!
physicsgirl: Congratulations on making your own gown! I made my daughter's wedding gown last year out of Silk Charmeuse and Silk Chiffon and had a ball doing it. If you have patience Charmeuse is really worth it, as it drapes beautifully.
For your small train, I would suggest hiding an eye or two in the outside center back seam(s) and a small hook(s) in the hem. Use a color to match the fabric (they do make white ones) and no one will ever know that they are there. When it is time to dance, just have someone hook your hem up to the eye.
Good Luck and best wishes!
Mimi
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