Wedding Dress Waistlines
We all know where the waistline is on our body, and most of us would probably like it a bit smaller. But in wedding dress terms (technically speaking), the waistline of the wedding dress is the horizontal seam that joins the bodice and skirt.
Along with the neckline and sleeves, the waistline works to add signature style to a particular silhouette. It's also the element responsible for bringing shape and balance to your wedding dress. For example, the elongate V-shape of a Basque waist beautifully reins in a full ball gown, while the natural waist on an A-line dress will subtly highlight the gentle curve of the design. Waistlines can also be used to manipulate gown proportion. Dropped waists help create the illusion of a longer torso, while high Empire-style waists are favoured for their slimming properties.
Empire
 | The Empire features a seam based high on the waist, just below the bust line. The skirt falls in a slight A-line and is named after the style's popularity during the Empire period in France. GOOD FOR: brides with a smaller bust (adds emphasis); the waist-minimising cut allows extra room for brides who want to divert attention away from their tummy or are pregnant. NOT GOOD FOR: brides with a big bust (it tends to make you appear top-heavy) or full hips. |
Natural
 | The seam of this waistline lies, as the name implies, at the natural waist, which is the indentation between the hip and ribcage. GOOD FOR: almost everyone NOT GOOD FOR: anyone wider around the middle |
Basque
 | The Basque waist forms an elongated triangle beneath your own natural waistline. This style diminishes the width of the dress at the waist. GOOD FOR: full or hourglass figures and those seeking less emphasis on the hips. NOT GOOD FOR: large tummies or the pregnant. |
Asymmetrical
 | An asymmetrical bodice features a change in waist height from one side of the dress to the other. The extent to which this style flatters certain figures may vary, depending on the cut. |
Dropped
 | The dropped waist falls several inches below your natural waistline. GOOD FOR: elongating the torso. NOT GOOD FOR: those with narrow shoulders (gives you an A shape) or long waists (adds extras length). |
