How To: Step-by-Step Instructions for Tying Your Bustle

I say this often: the bustle is one of the most critical (and most overlooked) parts of your wedding dress. It’s what allows your gown to go from ceremony showstopper to reception-ready, without sacrificing elegance or movement. But here’s the catch — the bustle only works if someone actually knows how to tie it.

And no, your favorite aunt with her good intentions and a YouTube tab open at the last minute doesn’t count.

(I say this with love, okay? I’ve seen this before).

Let me not date myself, but after years in bridal styling — from couture fittings in New York City to outdoor emergencies in the rain — I’ve seen it all. So I put together this polished, easy-to-follow guide for the people you trust to have their hands on your dress: your maid of honor, your mom, your coordinator, or your stylist.

These are real instructions, not vague guesses or “just pull this ribbon here” chaos.
We’re talking about securing $5,000+ gowns with layers of silk, tulle, and hand-sewn beading — so yes, the details matter.

In the steps below, you’ll find:

• How to tie or fasten the most common types of bustles (French, American, Ballroom)
  
• What tools or tags to look for
  
• When and where to bustle the dress
  
• Pro tips from my emergency kit (because fashion tape has its limits)
  

Whether you’re the bride reading this ahead of time or the designated helper making sure her gown doesn’t hit the dance floor in pieces — you’re in the right place.

Let’s get that train off the ground gracefully.
You’ve got this — and, don’t worry; I’ve got you.

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🧷 HOW TO TIE A FRENCH BUSTLE (aka Under Bustle)

What You’ll Need: A designated person (maid of honor, mom, stylist) who can get under the skirt and isn’t afraid of ribbons and layers.

Step-by-Step:

1. Find the ties:
   Underneath the gown (often under the lining or built into the train seams), you’ll find color-coded ribbons or loops. Each ribbon should have a partner — they’re numbered or marked with coordinating colors.
   
2. Lift the train from the underside:
   From inside the skirt, gently gather the length of the train upward.
   
3. Tie corresponding ribbons together:
   Match ribbon 1 to ribbon 1, 2 to 2, etc., and tie them securely in bows (not knots — bows are easier to undo later). You’ll tie them so that the train tucks under the skirt and is lifted off the floor.
   
4. Check the drape from the outside:
   Step out from under the gown and smooth the folds. The train should now form a soft, elegant lift underneath the skirt — subtle and romantic.
   

Pro Tip: Practice this beforehand! The best time is to do so at your final fitting and take a photo or video of where each ribbon lives! Let your bridal consultant show you, and, ideally, whoever will be there to tie the bustle on the day of.

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🧷 HOW TO TIE AN AMERICAN BUSTLE (aka Over Bustle)

What You’ll Need: Buttons or hooks sewn onto the back of the gown (usually at the waist or just below the hip), plus loops or ribbons on the underside of the train.

Step-by-Step:

1. Find the loops under the train:
   These will be sewn near the hem of the train, often where the fabric flares or begins to extend. Each one has a matching button or hook point on the upper skirt.
   
2. Gently lift the train upward:
   Holding the loop, bring it up to meet its matching button on the back of the gown. Secure it gently but firmly.
   
3. Repeat for each point:
   Most American bustles have 3–5 points to distribute the weight evenly. Work from the center outward for a balanced shape.
   
4. Smooth and adjust folds:
   The train should now cascade in layered folds over the back of the gown — a dramatic, gathered effect that still shows off your dress details.
   

Pro Tip: This is the fastest bustle to tie — great for quick transitions between ceremony and reception.

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🧷 HOW TO TIE A BALLROOM BUSTle (aka Invisible or Hemline Bustle)

What You’ll Need: Several interior attachment points (loops, ribbons, snaps, or buttons) sewn between the gown’s hem and inner skirt layers.

Step-by-Step:

1. Locate all attachment points:
   These will be hidden inside the gown — often marked for your tailor’s or stylist’s use. There’s usually a series of loops or ribbons along the hem and a matching row higher inside the skirt.
   
2. Begin at the center back:
   Reach under the skirt and lift the center of the train up, attaching the hem loop to its inner point first. This will begin to fold the train under.
   
3. Work your way outward:
   Continue lifting sections of the train up to meet their corresponding inside points — creating a full-length skirt effect without any external pickups.
   
4. Fluff, balance, and smooth:
   Once all ties are secure, smooth the outer fabric so it falls naturally. From the outside, it should look like the dress was always floor-length — totally seamless.
   

Pro Tip: This bustle requires the most precision. I definitely suggest that, if possible, you have your tailor show your bridal party how to do it during your final fitting.

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BONUS STYLE TIP FOR ALL BUSTLES:

📸 Take photos or a video of the bustle being tied at your final fitting! Then send it to whoever will be doing the bustling day-of — trust me, it’s a lifesaver when things are moving fast.

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Let’s take the stress off of your plate, so the only thing you have to worry about is showing up.