The empire is a silhouette with a very high waistline sitting just below the bust, from which the fabric falls freely in a straight or slightly flared line. It appeared in the 1790s as part of neoclassical fashion (the name refers to the First French Empire, 1804–1815, though the term itself was coined retrospectively in the early 20th century) under the influence of antique tunics and became a symbol of romantic, 'Grecian' simplicity. The empire visually lengthens the figure, conceals the waist and stomach and suits various body types, which is why it remains popular in evening, bridal and maternity dresses. It is one of the most elegant and romantic silhouettes in fashion.
