Empire Waist Type of Dresses

We have collected some of our most demanded dress styles at our atelier for empire waist dresses. It hasn't been an easy decision because there are endless possibilities and combinations to create an empire waist dress. Despite traditionally, we expect an empire dress to have maxi length and deep v-neck, you can design it in any possible way to match your style and necessities. Necklines, sleeves, and skirt styles and lengths are 4 variables that create endless combinations.

First of all, though, let us remind you that you can design your empire dress on your own, using our unique dress designer. Try it here:

Design your empire waist dress

References to the dresses appearing in this infographic:

High-low deep-vneck · Asymmetric Long · Long Sleeve Asymmetric mini · Long sleeves Empire Dress · Mini deep v-neck · Halter Maxi Empire Dress · Strapless Maxi Empire · Bell sleeve deep vneck Empire · Midi V-neck Empire Dress

Exploring the Empire Waist: A Style that Elevates

What is an Empire Waist on a Dress?

An empire waist on a dress is marked by a raised waistline that starts just below the bust. This feature creates an elongated silhouette, enhancing natural curves while providing a comfortable, loose fit below the waist. Empire waist dresses exude a timeless elegance, making them a staple in fashion that flatters every wearer.

What Body Type Should Wear Empire Waist?

The empire waist is incredibly versatile, ideal for almost every body type. It excels at balancing proportions, making it perfect for those with a fuller waist or hips as it draws attention upwards. For petite figures, it adds length, and for those with a pear-shaped body, it helps minimize the lower body while accentuating the bust.

Is an Empire Waist Slimming?

Absolutely! The empire waist is known for its slimming effect. By raising the waistline to just under the bust, it creates a longer line from the waist down, often making the wearer appear taller and slimmer. This cut can effectively conceal fuller hips and accentuate the slimmest part of the torso.

What is the Difference Between A-Line and Empire Waist Dress?

The main difference lies in the waistline and the overall flow of the garment. An A-line dress flares out from the natural waist or hips, creating a triangle shape that resembles the letter 'A'. Conversely, an empire waist dress gathers under the bust, allowing the fabric to fall straight down or flare slightly, which offers a more pronounced lift and separation from the waist area. This distinction makes the empire waist uniquely forgiving and flattering across various body shapes.

Mastering the Art of Empire Waist Dresses: Styles, Occasions, and Styling Tips

Empire waist dresses are celebrated for their flattering high waistline, which sits just below the bust, creating a graceful, elongated silhouette. This versatile design works wonderfully across various settings and body types, offering comfort while enhancing natural curves. Whether you're dressing for a formal event or a casual day out, understanding how to choose and style an empire waist dress can elevate your fashion game.

Deep V-Neck High on Front, Low on Bottom Dress

This style marries daring with grace, featuring a deep V-neck that plunges elegantly at the front coupled with a low, sweeping hemline at the bottom. This dress is designed for those who wish to make a dramatic entrance and leave an unforgettable impression at any high-end event.

When to Wear: Ideal for glamorous evening events or sophisticated weddings. So, yes, it could be the right bridesmaid dress.
How to Combine: Pair with minimalist jewelry and high-heeled sandals to balance the drama of the neckline and hem.
Pro Tip: Choose a monochromatic fabric to elongate your figure further, making you appear taller and more statuesque.

Short Asymmetric Dress

The short asymmetric empire waist dress offers a modern twist on a classic silhouette. Its uneven hemline adds a playful yet sophisticated edge, making it the perfect choice for occasions where both style and comfort are desired.

When to Wear: Perfect for cocktail parties or an artistic event.
How to Combine: Accentuate the asymmetry with asymmetric earrings or a unique clutch.
Pro Tip: Opt for a bold color to make the asymmetrical cut pop and turn heads.

Midi V-Neck Dress

The midi V-neck empire waist dress strikes a perfect balance between modesty and allure. Its versatile length paired with a tasteful V-neck offers a chic option for varied occasions, from professional settings to casual meet-ups as an alternative to pantsuits.

When to Wear: Suitable for both office settings and casual brunches.
How to Combine: Style with a blazer and pumps for a professional look or sandals and a sunhat for a relaxed weekend vibe.
Pro Tip: Ensure the V-neck isn’t too deep for work—balance professionalism and style.

Deep V-Neck Sleeved Dress

Combining the elegance of long sleeves with the allure of a deep V-neck, this dress is a standout choice for cooler evenings. It offers both warmth and style, suitable for dinner dates or evening gatherings where a touch of sophistication is required.

When to Wear: Great for cooler evening events or dinners.
How to Combine: Pair with a delicate pendant necklace to draw attention to the neckline and long sleeves.
Pro Tip: If the sleeves are voluminous, keep other accessories minimal to avoid overwhelming your look.

Short Deep V-Neck Dress

The short deep V-neck dress is all about boldness and flair. With a hemline that hits above the knee and a plunging neckline, this dress is designed for nights out where making a style statement is the goal.

When to Wear: Best for night-outs, parties, or date nights.
How to Combine: Match with ankle strap heels and a statement clutch.
Pro Tip: Add a lacy camisole underneath if you prefer extra coverage while maintaining the allure of the deep V-neck.

Asymmetric Maxi Dress

The asymmetric maxi dress embodies elegance with an edge. Its floor-length design and uneven cut provide a stunning silhouette that captures attention at more formal or creatively inclined events.

When to Wear: Excellent for formal gatherings or creative black-tie events.
How to Combine: Complement the dress with sleek, geometric jewelry and a structured handbag.
Pro Tip: Since the dress is a statement itself, choose a hairstyle that sweeps to the opposite side of the asymmetry to maintain visual balance.

High-Low Maxi Halter Dress

The high-low maxi halter dress features a unique hemline that rises subtly at the front and flows beautifully to the back. This design is perfect for showcasing both the elegance of a maxi dress and the casual flair of a shorter hem, suitable for outdoor celebrations or upscale casual events.

When to Wear: Ideal for summer weddings or upscale outdoor events.
How to Combine: Opt for bold earrings and a sophisticated updo to highlight the halter neckline.
Pro Tip: High-low hemlines are perfect for showcasing statement shoes, so pick a pair that deserves attention!

Strapless Maxi Dress

A strapless maxi empire waist dress exudes classic glamour. With its clean lines and elegant fit, this dress is an ideal choice for formal events where a touch of grandeur is desired.

When to Wear: Suitable for formal events, proms, or elegant evening parties.
How to Combine: Accessorize with a shimmering choker necklace and a glamorous evening shawl or bolero.
Pro Tip: Ensure the fit is impeccable around the bust to avoid any wardrobe malfunctions and maintain a sleek, chic look.

Halter Maxi Dress

The halter maxi dress combines comfort and chic effortlessly. Its neck-tie closure highlights the shoulders and the back, making it a popular choice for warm-weather events or casual gatherings by the beach.

When to Wear: A go-to for beach events or casual summer gatherings.
How to Combine: Keep accessories simple; a pair of sandals and a tote bag will suffice.
Pro Tip: Use a bronzer or a highlighter on your shoulders and collarbone to enhance the halter neckline and add a touch of summer glow.

Each of these empire waist styles offers unique possibilities for expressing personal style while staying comfortable and looking effortlessly elegant.

How to choose the right Empire Waist Dress Design

Let's talk about the options you have and their implications when designing an empire waist dress:

Necklines

V-neck empire dresses. There are 2 types of v-necks. Use the deep one if your intentions are stealing the show. If you are looking for a more modest option, try the standard and classy V-neck
Asymmetric empire dresses. Really trendy during the last seasons. It shows one of your shoulders, making it very elegant. At the same time, it doesn't feel like you are showing so much.
Halter Empire dresses: One of our favorite options. Elegant and stylish. Shows the beauty of your shoulders. Ideal for women with not too much bust.
Strapless empire dresses: After the v-neck, this is the most demanded neckline option. But you really need to know how to wear it. Recommended for medium and big busts it makes all eyes concentrate on the upper part of your body, hair, necklace, and shoulders.

Sleeves

Sleeveless empire dresses: The classic option. Strapless and halter necklines are by definition, sleeveless.
Short sleeve empire dresses: Very elegant option that you can style with v-necks. It covers your shoulders adding a refined touch.
Long sleeve empire dresses: We love how it looks the combination of a brave deep v-neck and the elegance of long sleeves. Ideal for winter/fall events, or in case you just don't want to show your arms.

Skirt styles

High-low Empire Dresses: you can design a dress with a high-low skirt in any length, except mini, for obvious reasons. A high-low dress adds a touch of fun to your outfit. Makes it look a bit naughty, but at the same time you can combine it with other elements that make it refined. Mix and match, ladies!
Mini Empire Dresses: ideal option for cocktail events and to show those beautiful legs you have. Pair it with modest options on the top to make it even more stylish.
Midi Empire Dresses: the casual option. You don't want to look too dressy or too cheeky? Take the midi length and you will get it right.
Maxi Empire Dresses: the typical length. If you think about an empire waist dress, the maxi length comes to your mind.

*Can't find the perfect dress? Well, you found just the right place. At Sumisura you can create your very own custom dress designs and we will tailor them to your exact measurements. Release your creativity and finally wear the dress you've always imagined yourself wearing.