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The waistline style of a wedding dress may seem trivial and insignificant when compared to all the other aspects that need to be thought of. However, the waistline is actually something that needs a great deal of attention because together with the sleeves and the neckline, it adds a signature style to the silhouette of the dress. The waistline also gives the gown the right shape and balance that matches your figure.
The wrong waistline on your wedding dress can make you feel uncomfortable and leave you looking far from your best on your big day. To avoid this happening, it would be best to look through your options and find the right kind of waistline style that would go with your body shape.
Read on to know more about the five main wedding dress waistline styles and how to choose the right style for you.
Types of Waistlines Styles
Not all wedding dress silhouettes have a waistline – the sheath dress, for example, is a straight cut dress with no waist seam. However, if you’re dress has a waist line, chances are it’ll be one of the following five. Picking the right one depends on a few different factors.
Asymmetrical Waistline

Stylish asymmetrical wedding gown by Unforgettable Vintage. See it here.
This waistline runs in a diagonal fashion so that the height on one side is different to the height on the other side. The steepness and position of the waistline can vary depending on the bride’s figure or preference, but it typically runs from the natural waist on one side to the dropped waist on the other.
When made with suitable fabric that has structure and holds the shape well, asymmetrical waistlines suit most body types. If you are tall, slim and have an hourglass figure, then this waistline would suit you perfectly. If you are on the shorter side, however, it can make emphasise this fact so it would be best to avoid it.
Asymmetrical waistline is a unique and stylish option that enhances femininity and looks very graceful. It’s gorgeous with any silhouette but looks regal with the mermaid and trumpet silhouettes.
If you’re planning on a vintage theme for your wedding, you could try a dress like this one with an asymmetrical waistline to pull of the vintage look.
Basque Waistline

Wedding gown with basque waistline by Hanayome Bridal. See it here.
The basque and natural waistlines (more on this below) look very similar, but they are not quite the same. The seams in the basque run from either side of the dress and connect to form an inverted triangle or a ‘U’ shape in the front.
This is a common waistline on structured ball gowns and looks best on pear-shaped or hourglass figures as it emphasises the waist and elongates your figure. The pattern is a slimming one and it
It is best to avoid this style, however, if you are petite or have a large middle section, because this could highlight the flaws.
Dropped Waistline


Dropped waist A-line wedding dress with tulle skirt by Alena Fede. See it here.
A dropped waistline falls much lower than the natural waistline and this creates an illusion of a leaner and longer torso. Dresses with this type of waistline have a longer bodice and a shorter skirt.
This is not an ideal dress for you if you’re on the short side or your natural waistline is already low. However, if you’re of average height or taller and you’ve got an inverted triangle or column figure then this waistline can be an excellent option.
Empire Waistline

Here’s one for the petite ladies out there! If you’re on the shorter side or have a small bust then this is the waistline for you. This waistline is high and raised, sitting just below the bust, resulting in a shorter bodice and a longer skirt that gives the wearer a tall and slender appearance. An empire waist dress is flattering for anyone of any age and is best for brides who wish to draw more attention to the upper part of the body than the waist and lower half.Â
The empire waistline sits well on an hourglass or pear-shaped body. However, people with inverted triangle figures should avoid this waistline as it can make the top half of the body appear much wider than the rest of it.
Another benefit of empire waist dresses is that they’re the best style for maternity wedding dresses since they’re comfortable while hiding the bump. The raised waist bodice doesn’t put any pressure on the belly but this doesn’t compromise on the beauty of the overall look.
Medium/Natural Waistline

Wedding dress with natural waistline by Bridally Store. See it here.
The medium or natural waistline is a popular waistline type for wedding dresses nowadays. The good news is that it suits almost all body types and being short or tall does not affect how you would look in a medium waist wedding dress.
This waistline sits naturally across your waist, with the skirt of the dress starting at your natural waist. It’s comfortable and suits a range of wedding dress silhouettes, from sleek mermaid dresses to extravagant ball gowns.
Wrapping Up…
When choosing a waistline for your wedding dress, it is important to keep in mind your height and body shape to choose one that suits you.
As we’ve mentioned above, some waistlines can make you look shorter or taller, while others can emphasise a slender or larger figure.  Pick the one that you find comfortable, beautiful and best suits your look.
To avoid standing out at your wedding for all the wrong reasons pay extra attention to detail and be careful with your selection.