Waistline (clothing)

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The waistline is the line of demarcation between the upper and lower portions of a garment, which notionally corresponds to the natural waist but may vary with fashion from just below the bust to below the hips. The waistline of a garment is often used to accentuate different features. The waistline is also important as a boundary at which shaping darts (such as those over the bust and in the back) can be ended.

Types of waistlines

Similar to necklines, waistlines may be grouped by their shape, depth and location of the body.

no waistline

The princess seam style of dress needs no waistline at all, since it does its shaping without darts, by mating edges of different curvature. The resulting "princess seams" typically run from the shoulder (or under the arm) over the bust point and down to the lower hem. A long, beautiful look, often seen in dresses with an "A-line" silhouette.

Empire waist

a high waistline that cuts horizontally across the body, just below the bust. This waistline gives a long, slim look and excellent fabric drape in the skirt. Allows for short, inconspicuous shaping darts. This waistline was popular in Jane Austen's time; see Empire silhouette. Flattering for figures without too much curvature.

raised waistline

a horizontal waistline that falls significantly above (>1 in.) the natural waist.

natural waistline

a horizontal waistline that falls at the natural waist. Tends to make the wearer seem shorter, by cutting the figure in half.

V-shaped waistline

a generally flattering waistline, especially for figures with curvature. Also known as the Basque waistline or the antebellum waistline.

U-shaped waistline

a softer, less pronounced version of the Basque waistline.

inverted V-shaped waistline

a waistline that starts high in the middle and drops at the sides. Can fall as high as the bustline (e.g., paired with a low V neckline to give a "bowtie" look), but usually found near the hips (e.g., extending Bolero curves in the bodice).

inverted U-shaped waistline

a softer, less pronounced version of the inverted-V waistline, usually a gentle downwards curve.

drop waist

a low, horizontal waistline that usually falls near the level of the upper hips. Balances the upper and lower bodies, and adds to the impression of height by lengthening the torso.

diagonal waistline

an asymmetrical waistline that cuts across the body diagonally. Usually the highest point is below the natural waistline.

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