There’s a reason why the empire waist gown has stood the test of time. From the chiton gowns we see in depictions of ancient Greece to the aristocratic Jane Austen-era evening gowns of the 1800s to midcentury mod style, it’s a tried and true dress shape that we will forever love. And its draw isn’t hard to spot: The fitted bodice, high waist, and loose-fitting skirt create a silhouette that’s universally flattering and endlessly forgiving.
Since the silhouette is designed to take the focus away from the waistline, its appeal is more inclusive. Unlike other styles, a cinched waist isn’t a prerequisite, and for this reason, empire waist gowns are often a go-to silhouette for those newly engaged. At Alicia Keys’ 2010 destination wedding with Swizz Beatz, she showcased her baby bump with a one-shoulder Grecian-style empire waist gown by Vera Wang.
“Empire waists are having a huge comeback thanks to Bridgerton,” explains bridal stylist Gina Vinnitsky. "The goal of the empire waist is to elongate and define. By cinching the waist just under the bust, it elongates the rest of the torso and draws attention away from bellies and hips. It’s the perfect dress for petite or shorter brides. Brides with an undefined natural waistline will love how this gives them definition in all the right places.” As far as accessories go, Vinnitsky says that it’s important to strategize. “An empire waist gown really accentuates a woman’s décolletage, giving you the perfect opportunity to add some well-appointed accessories,” she explains. “A fabulous diamond necklace or some statement earrings will really up the ante—but pick one or the other. Too much visual interest in the same area can look heavy.”
From playful short dresses to dramatic poofs, here are our favorite empire waist wedding gowns for brides on the hunt for a timeless look.
For the Nontraditional Bride: Sandra Mansour Forêt Dense
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This ruffled taffeta dress demands attention, so it’s the perfect pick for the bride who wants to dial up the theatrics and throw away the rulebook. Also, the flared sleeves, underbust cutout, and lace-up fastening are just as much fun as the striking lime green hue.
Price at time of publish:$2,382
Runs: True to size | Size Range: 34–46 (French sizing) | Length: High-low floor | Care: Dry clean only
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Most Romantic: Alexandra Grecco Cassia Gown
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The Cassia’s flutter sleeves and floral embroidery are reminiscent of Charlotte’s second wedding gown on Sex and the City, right? It’s hard to look away from the handmade details at the illusion bodice—but when you’re the bride, that’s totally the point.
Price at time of publish: Available upon request
Runs: True to size | Size Range: 00–20 | Length: Floor | Care: Dry clean only
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Most Comfortable: Twobirds Slit Dress
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There’s a reason why Twobirds is a go-to brand for many bridal parties. The poly-spandex jersey material and the empire-cut silhouettes look great and feel great on every body type. So why can’t brides partake, too? The convertible straps also mean that you can switch things up between the ceremony and reception.
Price at time of publish:$250
Runs: True to size | Size Range: 2–24 | Length: Floor | Care: Dry clean or machine-wash cold
Best Affordable: DB Studio Bubble Sleeve Georgette V-Neck Wedding Dress
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A little bit of bohemian flair without breaking the bank. If you want a more playful look on your big day, the bubble sleeves, slit, and semi-open back on this dress can bring you there for less than $200.
Price at time of publish: $200
Runs: True to size | Size Range: 32–60 | Length: Floor | Care: Dry clean only
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For the Whimsical Bride: Odylyne the Ceremony Emilia
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Hello, frills. Odylyne the Ceremony’s silk organza Emilia dress is what we’d imagine Daphne Bridgerton would wear if she lived in the Lower East Side. The sheer puff sleeves and ruffled skirt panels are playful touches that modernize the classic silhouette.
Price at time of publish:$3,650
Runs: True to size | Size Range: 2–20 | Length: Floor | Care: Dry clean only
Best Tiered Dress: Brock Collection x Over the Moon Quarrie Tiered Gown with Bows
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The beauty of this Brock Collection gown is in the details, like the delicate lace, self-tie straps, and flowy train. And it goes without saying that the flouncy tiers are made to twirl in.
Price at time of publish:$8,750
Runs: True to size | Size Range: 0–16 | Length: Floor | Care: Dry clean only
For the Feminine Bride: BHLDN Valentina V-Neck Flutter-Sleeve Empire-Waist Wedding Gown
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For a more feminine bridal look, consider the Valentina Gown from BHLDN. This truly dreamy dress features an airy tiered skirt crafted from tulle with lace detailing, a deep-V neckline, an open back, fluttery sleeves, and a sweep train that kisses the floor.
Price at time of publish:$1,695
Runs: True to size | Size Range: 0–16 | Length: Floor | Care: Professional clean
For a Garden Wedding: LoveShackFancy Ryan Dress
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The romantic and playful Ryan Dress is just the thing for a garden wedding in the spring or summer. It flaunts a square neckline, short puff sleeves, a fitted bodice, and a high-waist empire skirt with a full sweep down to the ankles.
Price at time of publish:$795
Runs: True to size | Size Range: 00–12 | Length: Ankle | Care: Hand-wash cold
What to Look For When Buying an Empire Waist Wedding Dress
Empire Silhouette
When browsing wedding dresses, the first thing to look for is an empire-style silhouette. This usually means the gown will have a fitted bodice that ends just under the bust. As with the LoveShackFancy Sho Maxi Gown, this gives an extra-high waist appearance.
Skirt Style
You can find empire-cut wedding gowns with a wide range of skirt styles. There are floor-length tulle skirts with full sweeps, like the Vera Wang Bride Liane Dress, A-line skirts with slits, like the DB Studio Bubble Sleeve Georgette V-Neck Wedding Dress, and tiered designs, like the Brock Collection x Over the Moon Quarrie Tiered Gown—to name just a few.
Neckline and Sleeves
You'll also want to consider what neckline you want. There are square-neck, sweetheart, bateau, and deep V-neck options, like the Alexandra Grecco Cassia Gown. This silhouette is also available with various sleeve styles and straps. There are puff sleeves, as seen on the Odylyne Ceremony Emilia Dress, flared sleeves, ruffles, cap sleeves, flutter sleeves, spaghetti straps, and everything in between.
FAQ
Are empire waist gowns flattering for petite brides?
Yes! Since the higher waistline gives the illusion of a longer torso, empire waist gowns have an elongating effect. This makes them a perfect pick for petite brides who want to look statuesque.
Why is it called an empire waist?
The "empire waist" gets its name due to the fact that it was commonly seen during the First French Empire.
Can an empire waist dress still show off my curves?
While certain empire waist dresses—particularly straight cuts made from billowy fabrics—can conceal the midsection, if you prefer a more fitted look, there are designs that feature higher waistlines with a fitted skirt.
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About the Author
Sumiko Wilson is a freelance reporter with over seven years of editorial experience. Most recently, she worked as a copywriter for brands including Kotn and SSENSE. As a reporter, much of her work has revolved around music, TV, beauty, and style. While completing her undergrad, part-time roles at Loversland and Naked Beauty Bar in Toronto have enhanced her expertise in bridal styling and beauty.
