SKU: 66235924044
what is an empire waist dress

what is an empire waist dress 215 Empire Dress

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Description

what is an empire waist dress 215 Empire DressMisses sizes SM 3XL. This high waisted dress known today as "empire" was worn in the period following the French Revolution in the late 1700s. Often called a "chemise gown" to satirize its scandalous brevity and lack of undergarments, it reflected a desire to return to simpler, classical Grecian dress after the excesses of the European nobility and patriot alike. Its peak of popularity was during the "First Empire" period (1799 1815); hence its name.

Misses sizes SM-3XL.

This high-waisted dress known today as "empire" was worn in the period following the French Revolution in the late 1700s. Often called a "chemise gown" to satirize its scandalous brevity and lack of undergarments, it reflected a desire to return to simpler, classical Grecian dress after the excesses of the European nobility and patriot alike.  Its peak of popularity was during the "First Empire" period (1799-1815); hence its name.  It was worn floor length or as high as knee length in front; trains were also worn for day or evening until 1806.  The Empire Dress has remained a favorite fashion silhouette through today.

Folkwear presents a sewing pattern for this classic in three lengths, with two sleeve options.  A narrow bodice is gathered into a slim A-line skirt front and side panels, and full gathered skirt back that falls to just below knee length, full length, or full length with train for weddings or formal wear.

On the traditional version, drawstrings fit the bodice firmly to the bust and tie at center back. For contemporary wear, we suggest a closed back and elastic in place of the drawstrings. Short puffed sleeves may be cut very high or slightly longer - both are authentic. The longer sleeves feature button and cord detailing. 

Suggested fabrics: Soft, lightweight or medium-weight fabrics such as cotton gauze, batiste, dotted Swiss, rayon challis, silk, very lightweight silk velvet with drape.

Yardage chart (.pdf)

Era: Regency, 1700s to early 1800s

This pattern is available as a Paper pattern and PDF pattern.  Choose the pattern format you want at the top.  The PDF pattern has instructions, and layered files for copy shop (36” and A0), projector, and print at home (A4 or 8.5”x11”).

Sewing Tip

Linda of Pine City, Minnesota, says this dress is popular with the Fur Trade reenactment crowd and she has made it several times. She says, "Some of us have a devil of a time putting together the little pieces that go around the armhole. The pattern markings are critical, and you should use tailor's tacks and position them carefully. I also suggest that you clearly mark the wrong side of each of the little pieces if your fabric's right and wrong sides are similar."

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SKU: 66235924044

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Fremy
Alexandria, US
★★★★★ 4
Nice, mid-length trench coat for style and comfort...
Size: X-Large, Color: Black
I like this mid-length trench coat. The seams are good (on the one I got) and the style is perfect for the office, semi-formal occasions and all-around wear. The fit is good, and the only complaint I would have is the sleeves are a bit too short for my long arms.
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Reviewed in the United States on February 9, 2023
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Sharon
Louisville, US
★★★★★ 3
It’s ok
Size: X-Large, Color: Gray
This jacket is OK. I bought it for my boyfriend because I really like the coat collar but once it got here. The front fits well but I think the back needs a little more tailoring because it kind of sticks out but he really liked it. He said he could put a heavy sweater up under it. That way he can get more ware out of it. It’s OK.
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Reviewed in the United States on July 21, 2024
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arturo echalar
Houston, US
★★★★★ 5
Good product
Size: Medium, Color: Gray
Nice to use on cold weather
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Reviewed in the United States on May 4, 2026
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kim
Natrona Heights, US
★★★★★ 5
Wool trenchcoat
Size: X-Large, Color: Gray
Looks and feels more expensive than what I paid for.
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Reviewed in the United States on February 16, 2026
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Ang Coakley
Natrona Heights, US
★★★★★ 5
Coat is perfect for any occasion.
Size: Medium, Color: Black
The fit is true to size. The coat has a soft exterior is very warm and is perfect for wearing to a fancy event or everyday. Great purchase and price.
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Reviewed in the United States on November 2, 2025

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