Ever go to a tailor and have no idea what word(s) she/he just said? Well, we are here to bring a little education into the wide world of tailoring with a little terminology talk. Check back every week for a new term.

Next up: Empire Waist

An empire waist (most commonly seen in any Jane Austen period movie), is when the waist line is actually cut above the natural waist, basically right under the bust.  It’s perfect for pregnant ladies- just check out the preggos at the Oscars!- and incredibly flattering on almost every body type. Besides hiding the stomach area, it also lengthens the body. I’ve heard debate over pronouncing it like “Empire” (as in “Roman empire”) or “Ummm-pier” (which has always sounded INCREDIBLY pretentious to this tailor), but according to GRD, anything goes. 🙂 Just remember that it looks good, and has some Grecian influences!

An empire waist on a dress from ye olden days.

Empire waists on dresses from the 60s!

And finally, an empire waist on a contemporary dress!

Images courtesy of The Jane Austen Centre, The Playful Needle and Neiman Marcus