Empire Dress

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An Empire Dress is a dress that has the waistline just under the bust. It usually has a flowing skirt. The result is a silhouette that emphasized the bust line and minimizes the hips. The Empire is a classical silhouette that dates from early Greek and Roman times and can be seen on Grecian urns.

It enjoyed a resurgence in Europe in the 1790's, around the time of the French Revolution, when fashion embraced all things classical. The dresses worn during this period had very low necklines that western culture would consider inappropriate today. The Empire waistline became popular again in the 1960's.

Some attribute its popularity to times of social upheaval and change when people tend to forsake more structured garments and embrace comfort and freedom.. Since this style draws the eye up, away from the hips and buttocks, it is a flattering choice for most women who are at their slenderest just below the bust.

It is also often used in maternity wear. The Empire style is comfortable and easy to wear. The type of fabric used is usually filmy and lends itself to evening and nightwear. Some clothing for babies and children also has this silhouette.

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