Drop waist wedding dresses are one of our favorite trending styles, and for good reason! A typical drop waist gown features an extended, fitted bodice that goes past the hips before flaring into the skirt, creating a longer and more elongated look of the torso. The basque waist [pronounced ‘bask’], is a variation of the drop waist, and also refers to a bodice of a dress that hugs the silhouette and extends past the natural waistline, covering the hips. The difference between a dropped waist and a basque? The basque waists feature two angled seams that form a triangular shape at the bottom of the bodice, whereas a dropped waist features a straight-across or curved waistline. Basque waistlines also come in varying degrees, from an exaggerated point to a subtle angle [also known as the ‘baby basque’]!
This unique style dates back to the mid-19th century, an innovation that was not only a fashion statement, but a sign of the times. It was the epitome of Victorian-era fashion, highlighting a feminine figure with touches of grace and elegance. The drop waist wedding dress is now seen in many variations, and is a style that looks great on many different body types. It elongates your torso, draws attention upwards and gently shapes your waist for a cinched + snatched look. We see this popular style paired with a multitude of other trends, including clean and classic styles, all-over lace, rich jacquard, beading, and much more. Keep scrolling for a few of the drop waist wedding dresses you can find at our Columbus bridal boutique!
Vera Wang Fernanda
Vera Wang Fernanda is a stunning basque waist wedding dress, boasting a full ball gown silhouette, thick crepe bodice and full tulle skirt. The basque waistline is balanced with a slight v-neckline, for an elongating and flattering bridal look!
Watters Cordell
Watters Cordell features an exaggerated dropped waistline, strapless neckline, and dramatic ball gown skirt! The back of the bodice extends even further down the silhouette, and covered buttons finish this classic yet unforgettable bridal look.
Leah Da Gloria Anastasia
Leah Da Gloria Anastasia is a show stopping wedding dress of all-over lace and a dramatic basque waist. A full skirt and train complete the look, along with a classic sweetheart neckline for a truly memorable wedding day style.
Dany Tabet Vivien
Dany Tabet Vivien is a bride favorite, and for good reason! This a-line silhouette boasts a baby basque waist, voluminous pleating around the waist, and intricate, hand-placed beading throughout the bodice. A v-neckline adds a sultry touch to this romantic bridal vibe!
Nicole + Felicia NF043
Nicole + Felicia NF043 is what classic bridal dreams are made of! This jaw dropping ball gown features a basque waist above the full skirt and dramatic train. Tapered straps and a flattering scoop neckline finish off the look for a clean and timeless feel.
Nicole + Felicia NF089
Nicole + Felicia NF089 stands out among other drop and basque waist gowns due to her luxurious yet lightweight fabric! This airy organza silhouette creates an ethereal and romantic wedding day look, while the elongated bodice hugs your curves.
Jenny Yoo Danielle
Designed in collaboration with Bridal Stylist and Content Creator Hope LaVine, Jenny Yoo Danielle is a modern yet classic bridal gown! This dress features a sleek cat-eye neckline, a bow sash at the natural waist, and of course a basque waistline! Pleating at the waist also adds extra volume, for an exaggerated and feminine silhouette.
Wtoo Collette
Wtoo Collette is a strapless ball gown that boasts idyllic botanical details above the baby basque waist. Delicate beadwork adds a touch of shimmer for a gown that feels ethereal and whimsical!
Monique Lhuillier Fleur De Lis
Monique Lhuillier Fleur De Lis features a classic drop waistline! One of Monique’s most iconic styles, this gown is a quintessential classic bridal look, featuring intricate lace from bodice to hem, and a classic sweetheart neckline underneath the removable lace topper.
Mark Ingram Cece
Mark Ingram Cece is a unique yet timeless approach to the drop waist look! Cece boasts a long dropped waist, staying fitted through the hips, accented with a romantic bow detail. A full skirt and voluminous pleating adds drama and movement to the look!
Monique Lhuillier Ravello
To our brides looking for something unique, allow us to introduce you to Monique Lhuillier Ravello! This ball gown boasts a stunning Italian-inspired print, basque waistline, and unique twisted neckline. Pickups in the skirt add another unique touch to the ball gown silhouette.
Watters Wyetta
The next dress on our list, Watters Wyetta, takes basque waist to a new level, with a zig-zag pattern around the whole waistline. This creates a truly unique look and a one-of-a-kind take on the drop waist wedding dress. Decadent lace adorns this full silhouette, complemented by an exposed corset on the bodice for true depth and dimension.
Netta BenShabu Aphrodite
Netta Benshabu Aphrodite is a gorgeous fitted silhouette featuring a basque waistline! Lace adorns this wedding dress from bodice to hem, and the high neck is achieved with delicate tulle. A romantic bow at the bust adds a whimsical touch to this sultry bridal look!
SenStudio Begonia
SenStudio SE001 is an unforgettable basque waist ball gown! The bodice is covered in delicate beading, adding the perfect amount of sparkle to this timeless silhouette. A simple belt sits at the natural waistline before the basque, adding a fun touch to this look!
Wtoo Hilty
Another stunning ball gown option, Wtoo Hilty boasts a baby basque waistline! Layers upon layers of airy tulle make up this grand silhouette, and the moscato color gives it a slight blush tone, for a truly romantic and feminine feel.
Leah Da Gloria Valkyrie
Rounding out our list of drop waist wedding dresses is Leah Da Gloria Valkyrie, a clean and modern a-line gown featuring a dramatic leg slit and exaggerated basque waistline. The corseted bodice and intentionally-placed draping makes for the ultimate figure-flattering wedding day look!
Now that you’re an expert on the drop waist wedding dress trend, let’s try some on! Tap the button below to view upcoming availability + secure your bridal appointment.
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