Empire waistlines sit higher than your natural waist, sometimes right under the bust. This waist style is often seen as youthful and pure, but there is actually a huge variety of looks you can achieve with an empire waistline.
This detail is found throughout the bohemian genre of bridal quite frequently, as well as some vintage designs as well. We love how comfortable and illusive this feature can be for brides and how versatile as well.
Here are 6 stunning empire waist dresses to show you just how stunning and adaptable they can be.
White One, Lumiere
Credit: White One
There is so much to love about the Lumiere. Its three-quarter length sleeves, it’s contrasting tones, and it’s A-line silhouette all come together to create a flattering, bridal look that is full of ease.
We love how the design can be included in so many style genres from shabby chic-inspired to destination to bohemian all the way to princess-esque.
The inverted empire waist is extremely complimentary as well as comfortable to wear all day and night long while celebrating.
Lazaro, Clea
Credit: Lazaro
Of course, you can find empire waistlines on a variety of silhouettes outside of the A-line realm. This includes the Clea gown from Lazaro that features a trumpet shape and ivory embroidered petals.
We love how the empire waist elongates the entire design and the fabric shimmers from top to bottom. It’s a gorgeous gown for spring and summertime affairs as it speaks to the season effortlessly.
The gown itself also looks beautiful both with and without a veil. So, it’s easily personalized to your liking.
Pronovias, Iselda
Credit: Pronovias
This strapless, mermaid wedding gown features breathable, crepe fabric and an empire waist. It’s youthful, it’s sexy, and simplistic for our modern brides looking for an elegant and chic finish to their big day.
Change the overall look of the Iselda by changing your hairstyle – up for more black-tie visions or loose and down for a carefree vibe.
The bow, the slight ruching, and the sleek edges make this a subtle, yet show stopping force to be reckoned with when it comes to bridal styles.
Allure Bridals, W386
Credit: Allure Bridals
We are loving this classic bridal gown from Allure Bridals. It features a subtle, empire waist, a scalloped-edged neckline, and stunning lace.
There’s the option to take it to a new level with the color options from blue to champagne to silver, while still falling into the more traditional categories of wedding day style.
The waist is accented by sparkling embellishments and it falls in a more affordable price point than some of its boutique counterparts. Pair with a veil for a complete look.
Melissa Sweet, MS251266
Credit: Melissa Sweet
Affordable and dreamy – it’s truly the best of all worlds with this Melissa Sweet dress. It’s giving youthful princess in the best of ways and we are loving the floral detailing.
Those puff sleeves help slip the bride into that vintage style and it features a beautiful backline and romantic train. And they’re also dipped in that same, floral detailing!
This design is exclusively at David’s Bridal locations as well making it even more accessible for a variety of brides.
Claire Pettibone, Sevigne
Credit: Claire Pettibone
A personal favorite, Claire Pettibone’s style is straight out of a fantasy novel. We love the bohemian efforts and fairy-tale accents.
Even more so, Pettibone is known for her empire waistlines. And the designs are so flattering on so many body types because of this.
This particular design, the Sevigne, includes a strapless neckline, embellished lace, and a beaded empire waist. It seems to be plucked from times past and we love how romantic the movement of the skirt is.
