Why You Should Consider Adding The Empire Dress Into Your Wardrobe Rotation
The empire strikes back.
By Gracia Phang - published
Photo: Hanna Lassen/Getty Images
Thanks to Netflix’s Bridgerton, the empire cut so popularised by Empress Joséphine of the First French Empire (thus its name) is back in force this season.
Ultra feminine, the empire-waist silhouette, with its fitted bodice that ends just below the bust, draws attention to the bosom and gives the illusion of an elongated torso. Well suited to our warm climate, the breezy fitted-and-flared number is a perfect throw-on-and-go staple all year round.
While designers retained its fitted bodice and raised waistline, they broke the ultra-femme mould with unexpected elements, not to mention fresh ways of styling.
Can’t decide which look to go for? Try on a few for size and ooze a different vibe every day.
Tory Burch took a more casual, hillbilly stance, throwing a contrast-stitched number over a puff-sleeved blouse for some easy weekend vibes.
Echoing the relaxed feel is Dsquared2 with an après-ski get-up of a printed mini worn over leggings, topped with a beanie, an oversize tote and hiking boots for good measure.
For a twist to girly, do like Dior and team a tiered maxi in romantic tulle with leather add-ons for punk edge undertones.
A more elegant option can be found at Burberry, which went for clean lines and a modest three-quarter length that still read sexy thanks to a deep V neckline—wear alone for date nights or with chic trousers and a classic trench for workdays