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Fashion Glossary
What Is an Empire Waist?
An empire waist is a high waistline that sits just below the bust, with the skirt falling loosely from there.
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The empire line lengthens the legs and skims over the midsection, which is why it is popular in maxi dresses, babydoll styles and maternity wear.
It takes its name from the French First Empire period of the early 1800s, when the style was fashionable.
How to wear it
Empire-waist dresses look great with flat sandals in summer or with ankle boots and a cropped jacket when it is cooler.
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