For more than 70 years, thousands of brides have traveled to Kleinfeld Bridal in New York City to find their wedding day looks. From the moment you walk through the doors, you’ll feel the magic of Kleinfeld. Not only does Kleinfeld have 30,000 square feet filled with the largest selection of wedding dresses in the world, it also has the greatest professional staff of over 200 employees who are dedicated to finding and perfecting your bridal look.
Whether you’re on Instagram, TikTok, or Pinterest, you can probably confirm that this bridal trend is everywhere. And, for good reason! Drop-waist and basque-waist wedding dresses have taken the bridal world by storm. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about drop-waist bridal gowns.
We’re covering the various aspects of drop-waist wedding dresses, their different styles, and why a drop-waist wedding dress may be the perfect choice for your special day.
What is a Drop-Waist Wedding Dress?
A drop-waist wedding dress, also known as a dropped-waist wedding dress, is characterized by a waistline that sits lower on the body. Rather than the bodice ending at the natural waistline, a wedding dress with a drop waist features a bodice that is fitted down to the hip bone before transitioning into the gown’s skirt.
This iconic style offers a regal, couture, and timeless aesthetic that is ideal for the bride seeking a statement. Most notably, the distinct waistline is known to be elongating and incredibly complementary to a variety of body types. The style originated in the 1920s and has since evolved to incorporate modern elements while still maintaining its traditional appeal.
Types of Popular Drop-Waist Wedding Dresses
1. Drop-Waist Ball Gown Wedding Dress
For brides dreaming of a fairytale wedding, a drop-waist ball gown wedding dress is an excellent choice. This style combines the elongated torso of a drop waist with the voluminous skirt of a ball gown creating a stunning silhouette that’s both romantic and dramatic.
2. Drop-Waist A-Line Wedding Dress
The drop-waist A-line wedding dress offers a more subtle approach to the drop-waist style. It features a fitted bodice that extends to the hips before flaring out into an A-line skirt. This style is versatile and flattering for various body types making it a popular choice among brides.
Why Choose a Drop-Waist Wedding Gown?
There are several reasons why brides opt for drop-waist wedding dresses:
- Elongating Effect: The lowered waistline creates the illusion of a longer torso which can be particularly flattering for petite brides.
- Vintage Charm: Drop-waist styles evoke the glamour of the 1920s making it ideal for brides seeking a traditional, nostalgic, or even regal bridal look.
- Comfort: The structured fit sculpts the upper body, therefore, creating a secure and figure-flattering silhouette.
- Versatility: Drop-waist wedding dresses are available in various styles, from sleek and modern to ornate and traditional, suiting a variety of different wedding themes, formalities, and personal styles.
Top Designers Offering Drop-Waist Wedding Dresses
We are proud to carry an extensive selection of drop-waist wedding dresses from some of the world’s most renowned bridal designers. Here are some top designers in our collection that offer stunning drop-waist options:
- Pnina Tornai: Known for her glamorous and often daring designs, Pnina Tornai offers drop-waist gowns that blend romance with drama.
- Netta BenShabu: This designer’s drop-waist dresses often feature exquisite lace and meticulous beadwork perfect for the bride seeking intricacy and elegance.
- Lee Petra Grebenau: Her drop-waist creations are characterized by luxurious fabrics and impeccable craftsmanship.
- Neta Dover: This designer’s drop-waist gowns often incorporate modern elements with classic silhouettes appealing to brides with a modern and fashion-forward aesthetic.
- Eden Aharon: Known for her attention to detail, Aharon’s drop-waist dresses often feature unique textures, shimmering embellishments, and exquisite laces.
- Nicole + Felicia: Perfect for the fashion-forward bride, this design duo creates drop-waist gowns that are romantic, dramatic, and undeniably editorial.
- Martina Liana: Offering a range of drop-waist styles, from classic to modern, Martina Liana caters to various bridal preferences and price points.
- Maggie Sottero: Known for her figure-flattering designs, Maggie Sottero’s drop-waist dresses are elegant, comfortable, and well structured.
Styling Your Drop-Waist Wedding Dress
When it comes to accessorizing your drop-waist wedding dress, consider the following:
- Belts: A thin belt, ribbon, or bow may accentuate the dropped waistline and add a polished or editorial element.
- Veils: Both long and short veils complement drop-waist dresses beautifully as well as enhance the drama of the bridal look.
- Jewelry: A statement earring or other intentionally-selected pieces of jewelry may also contribute to the formality and elegance of a drop-waist wedding gown.
Finding the Perfect Drop-Waist Wedding Dress
When shopping for drop-waist wedding dresses, keep these points in mind:
- Try on different styles: Experiment with various drop-waist silhouettes to find the most complementary fit for your body type.
- Consider your venue: A drop-waist ball gown might be perfect for a formal church wedding while a sleeker drop-waist A-line may be ideal for a beach ceremony.
- Think about comfort: Ensure you can move, sit, and dance comfortably in your chosen dress.
Drop-waist wedding dresses offer a unique blend of vintage charm and modern elegance. Whether you’re drawn to the dramatic flair of a drop-waist ball gown or the sleek lines of a drop-waist A-line or fitted dress, this style has the ability to adapt to each bride’s individual style.
Remember, the most important aspect of choosing your wedding dress is how it makes you feel. If you feel beautiful, confident, and like the most elevated version of yourself in your drop-waist wedding dress, then you’ve found your perfect match.
Book Your Kleinfeld Bridal Appointment
The Kleineld team is here to help! We can’t wait to welcome you through our NYC showroom doors and guide you through your dress shopping journey. Schedule your Kleinfeld bridal appointment and explore our vast selection of drop-waist styles.
Looking for the ultimate “say yes!” experience? That’s the beauty of a luxury bridal salon! Explore our VIP offerings. Plus, see our Trunk Show Calendar to book your appointment during a special event that piques your interest. Finally, stay in the know! Follow us on Instagram for updates and tons of bridal inspiration.
Looking for more bridal advice? Check out more of our Bridal Guides located on Kleinfeld’s Bridal Blog: