Empire style bridesmaid dress: modern styles, shades

History of the Empire style in clothing

The Empire style became widespread at the beginning of the 19th century in France. He was associated with the image of ancient Greek goddesses. The founder of the style is considered to be Empress Josephine Beauharnais. She was Napoleon's wife.

Back in the 18th century, fashionistas wore corsets. Josephine was the first to prefer looser clothing to them. Following her, the ladies of the court also got rid of the corsets that hampered their movements. A little later, the fashion for them spread throughout the world.

The first outfits in the Empire style were distinguished by a simple cut. They had a deep neckline and a loose skirt. Over time, dresses began to be decorated with drapery and decorative elements.

In the mid-19th century, the Greek style began to become outdated, but modern fashion breathed a new life into it. The style has been adapted to new trends. A wedding dress in the Greek style began to be decorated with asymmetrical details, different necklines and decor. Modern models are not only long, but also shortened.

Current trends

Wedding dresses in the Greek style can rightfully be called a real masterpiece in the world of wedding fashion. The collections of the world's leading designers present various models. The following fashionable “tricks” can be distinguished: armholes on one shoulder, too high a waistline, asymmetry of the bottom and top of the dress.

A dress model with a high waist, a long hem, consisting of many layers of light flowing fabrics, and a bare shoulder are very popular in 2020-2021. Nobody notices any flaws in the figure, even if they exist, fixing their gaze on the seductively alluring bare shoulder. This is exactly what Greek dresses from Elie, Saab, Valentino look like.

However, symmetrically made dresses look very interesting. Models with a classic high waist and criss-cross drapery on the chest will also be relevant.

In 2020-2021, designers and stylists offer girls both dresses without straps and with thin straps.

The model with a train looks very nice. Skillful cut, correct selection of fabric, exquisite simplicity make the dress truly elegant and divine.

Do you want to be on trend? Choose a dress that is strapless or has a one-shoulder opening. This is a bold and bright option. The second strap can be light lace or a chain of pearls - your imagination is not limited to anything.

Marc Jacobs and the House of Chanel offer brides a chiffon Grecian dress, made in the style of a tunic, with leather sandals, Monique Lhuillier and Malandrino - dresses in a Greek style, decorated with jewelry.

Bridal salons offer a wide selection of different dress models. You can also sew a dress to order. Then you can take part in the real magic yourself - creating a goddess dress.

Features and advantages of an empire style wedding dress

The main distinguishing feature of a wedding dress in the Empire style is comfort. Due to the straight cut and lack of a corset, it does not restrict movement. The bride will feel comfortable throughout the day.

Empire wedding dress has a high waist. The hem of the dress is widened downward. The airy image of the bride in the Greek style is emphasized by the drapery. The combination of these details makes the bride feminine and sophisticated. The outfit flows along the figure, without focusing on its flaws, so the empire wedding style suits everyone.

The simplicity of the cut opens up wide possibilities for decoration. The Greek style bride's dress is decorated with sparkling crystals, pearls and embroidery. Bright accents allow you to add originality and novelty to your image.

“Additions” to a Greek style wedding dress (photo)

Now let’s talk about how to properly “design” a bride’s outfit in the Greek style.

Shoes. And there is a sheer wealth of choice here. Classic white high-heeled shoes, open sandals, and elegant flat sandals go perfectly with a Greek dress. Moreover, the color of the shoes can be either traditional white or gold or silver (but here it is important to take into account their compatibility with the accessories and trim of the dress).

Photo from the site: odin-magaz.ru

Accessories. Various large jewelry will look great with a Greek wedding dress - bracelets, earrings, pins, hairpins, clasps, belts, hoops and headbands. All of them must be made of silver or golden metal, or a material simulating it.

Photo from website: brokersa.ru

Bride's handbag. A small handbag that resembles a purse or pouch, or a traditional clutch, but with a softened design, will look great.

Photo from the site: frostmusic.ru

The bride's bouquet. Small bouquets of fresh flowers are preferable, into which large green leaves will be woven, reminiscent of laurel shoots.

Photo from the site: svadebnie-pricheski.com

Groom. Just a joke... but, of course, he must match his suit with the dress of his chosen one. Here, without any problems - a classic three-piece suit with a bow tie or a regular one, or just a more relaxed option - a vest with a shirt.

Photo from the site: noutbukhppavilion.ru

Who would suit the Greek bride's outfit?

A bride in a Greek style is an example of sophistication. This outfit is considered universal. If it is chosen in size, it will suit absolutely any girl. For a themed wedding, it is chosen by brides with dark hair and tanned skin. In this case, the dress fits well into the image of Cleopatra.

The dress model looks impressive on tall, slender girls with impeccable posture. It is advisable for short brides to wear high-heeled shoes under such a dress.

Fabric selection

Simplicity and minimalism must be compensated for by something, otherwise the dress will look simple and boring. Therefore, the fabric for sewing must be of high quality. Only expensive materials can look beautiful in drapery, and also perfectly fit the figure when moving. It is also worth considering that there should be a minimum of decor, which means that if there are any shortcomings, it will not be possible to disguise them with lace and embroidery. Suitable material for a Greek dress can be:

silk;
atlas;
muslin;
crepe-satin.

Special attention is paid to the color scheme; shades should be muted and soft. It is the Greek dress that looks good in beige and cream colors. If you want a white dress, then you should choose a model with a complex cut, otherwise the outfit will look simple. An unusual and stylish option is a dress in a delicate olive color. This shade goes well with gold trim and will suit girls with dark hair and dark skin.

You should not try to combine the main fabric with another material, for example, a silk skirt and a chiffon top. This contradicts the style itself and makes the image disjointed. It is allowed to use other fabrics only in decoration: belt, neckline.

Modern models of wedding dresses in the empire style

Modern wedding dresses in the Greek style are characterized by long, voluminous sleeves and asymmetrical straps. Some of them have an emphasis on the waist and a fluffy bottom. However, the traditional design of the Empire dress does not lose its relevance.

Common variations of empire style dresses include:

Empire wedding dresses with sleeves are available in different variations. Long sleeves are made translucent and decorated with lace trim. This option is optimal for celebrating a wedding in winter. Short sleeves can be shaped like lanterns. They are suitable for girls with a fragile physique and girls with a pear-shaped figure.
An empire style dress can have a one-shoulder cut. It will emphasize the elegance of a woman's figure and visually enlarge her breasts. This model is recommended for girls with an “inverted triangle” figure.
The open back is another seductive detail of the dress. This style is suitable for girls with good posture. Beads and lace details are used to decorate the back.

Accessories

Of course, a bride's look would be incomplete without the right accessories. One dress is not enough to create a complete look, so don’t forget about shoes, hairstyle and jewelry .

Thin elegant chains - gold, platinum and silver - will suit the Greek dress
Pearl necklaces or beads , wide bracelets - gold, glass or even wood - would look appropriate
A stylish solution is jewelry with ornaments made to match the decorative elements of your outfit.

shoes for a Greek dress with high heels that match the color of the dress or its individual elements. For example, a white dress with a gold belt and gold shoes looks very stylish. To be completely in style, you can go for open shoes with lots of straps. The ideal solution, especially for a pregnant woman, is gladiator shoes with flat soles.

curly locks are perfect for a Greek goddess . They can be pulled up into a high hairstyle or loosened over the shoulders. The image of a royal priestess will be complemented by a thin diadem or flowers evenly woven into her hair. A hair net would also be quite appropriate. It is better to do makeup in a discreet, gentle, but effective way.

If you want to create a brilliant and at the same time discreet image that will tell others about your natural modesty and self-esteem, a Greek style dress is a suitable option for this idea. And also, if you need to choose an outfit quickly, a model that suits everyone is the case when you don’t have to think for a long time. Create a divine look in no time!

Look at Greek style wedding dresses

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What color to choose for the bride's dress

A wedding look in the Greek style looks impressive in light colors. A good option would be a dress in white, beige, ivory and soft pink. To create a more extravagant look, you can use blue, gold or chocolate.

Colors and shades

The most suitable color for a wedding dress is, of course, white. Snow-white dresses in the Greek style look incredibly elegant, luxurious and expensive.

Another popular shade is cream (or light beige). It is also called “ivory”, which translates as “ivory color”. It is suitable for girls who are bored with the classic white color and are looking for something extraordinary.

Unusual, bright shades are also in fashion: lilac, coral, sky blue, blue, gold. A Greek dress in an original violet or light pink shade will look stylish and unique on the bride.

Fabrics and decoration of a wedding dress in the Greek style

Dresses in the Greek style are made from light, airy materials. Brocade, muslin or tulle are used to make the bodice. To create a flowing skirt, organza, silk, chiffon or satin are suitable.

In the Greek style, any type of decorative finish would be appropriate. The straps can be decorated with hand embroidery, ribbons or lace elements. Rhinestones, sequins and precious stones will add elegance and festiveness to the look.

What to wear with a Greek dress to a wedding

It is better to choose shoes for a snow-white outfit in an antique style in neutral and light shades: beige, cream, gold, ivory. Gold goes perfectly with a white Greek dress: you can complement the look with gold jewelry or wear light gold-colored shoes.

The bride can opt for classic pumps or ballet flats, or wear elegant gold-plated high sandals with straps or sandals in the Greek style with her dress - and the stunning image of the ancient goddess is ready.

A Greek-style dress can be complemented with an elegant light cape made of chiffon or organza or a lace bolero:

A long translucent veil (it can be connected to a train) is perfect for a flowing, floor-length Greek wedding dress.

You will get a very romantic look if you decorate your wedding dress with fresh flowers, but this combination is only suitable if the wedding takes place in summer or late spring.

In all other cases, you can use, for example, bows, bright contrasting ribbons, belts decorated with rhinestones or pearls as decoration:

Accessories and shoes for the bride in an empire dress

In the Greek style, discreet decorations would be appropriate. It is enough to wear a necklace and earrings from one jewelry set. Hands can be decorated with lace gloves to match the dress. A win-win addition to the look will be a tiara in the shape of an olive branch.

When creating a bouquet, florists recommend paying attention to roses of the same shade. Bouquets in the style of cascade, muff and ball will fit into the image. Shoes must have a stable last. The heel height is selected individually. The shade of the shoes should be in harmony with the color of the outfit.

And here you can read about options for decorating a wedding in the Greek style.

Hair and makeup

To match the style of the goddess of antiquity, you need to choose the appropriate hairstyle. Small braids and soft curled curls will look organic.

A low bun at the back of the head with two curled strands going down to the chin or below;
Long braids laid around the head in the shape of a crown;
Curly ponytail
Hairstyle with long hair gathered into buns and pinned with pins. It has a considerable length and looks somewhat similar to a braid, which can be decorated with flowers or hairpins with rhinestones.

Makeup should be quite natural, emphasizing the natural color and radiance of the skin of the face and décolleté.

The emphasis is on the eyes and eyebrows, but they should not be emphasized too much. You can apply a little blush to highlight your cheekbones. Lipstick in delicate shades is the best fit for your chosen look.

Makeup and hairstyle

It is advisable to make makeup in an antique look neutral. Brown tones will suit blue-eyed brides. Girls with brown eyes can choose a palette of green or pink shades. You can apply blush in a natural shade and line your eyes.

A wedding hairstyle in the Greek style will be the final detail of the look. The traditional option is bouncy curls gathered at the back of the head. Curled hair can be pulled into a bun, leaving a few strands near the forehead. Successful options also include a Greek braid wedding hairstyle on one side. To decorate your hairstyle, you can use feathers, strings of pearls and large flower buds.

Wedding hairstyles for Greek dress

You definitely need to consider a Greek-style hairstyle for your outfit. In order to do it, you need to wash your hair and curl it. The Greek hairstyle is ideal for naturally curly hair, because... it will take a minimum of time to make it. Twisted strands with the help of various hair clips, crocodile clips, bobby pins, hairpins, strands of hair need to be lifted.

The main characteristic features of a Greek style hairstyle are curled strands that fall over the shoulders. However, the hairstyle never involves completely loose hair. They are collected in whole or in part. This hairstyle can be decorated with fresh flowers.

You can see all the hairstyles in the Greek style here >>

A wedding is a very bright event in the life of every girl. Each of us wants to be the most beautiful on this day. In a Greek wedding dress you will feel not just a bride, but a real goddess!

Makeup for a wedding dress

Any girl can easily choose her makeup. The main condition is maximum naturalness! An image with subtly emphasized lines of eyebrows, eyelashes and lips will look self-sufficient and romantic. Skin color is sure to be radiant and healthy.

The décolleté area is powdered to match the makeup on the face. A matte foundation with reflective particles is what you need for this celebration. A beautiful peach blush will help highlight your cheekbones.

A lace Greek dress looks gorgeous with beige, brown, golden shades and mother-of-pearl.

Lips are by no means bright! Use subtle shades of lipstick or gloss. It is important that the lipstick has a long-lasting moisturizing effect.

Now look at our photo selection!

Combination of an empire dress with a groom's suit

Almost all types of men's suits can be combined with a Greek-style dress. The optimal solution would be a three-piece suit with a vest. The print of the shirt is chosen to match the wedding dress. According to the classics, men prefer plain shirts in light colors.

A tailcoat and tuxedo would be appropriate for the Greek look. They will add solemnity to the overall atmosphere. The groom's boutonniere should match the style of the wedding bouquet and match it in color.

An empire style dress attracts brides with its versatility and femininity. It is considered a win-win option in any situation.

Dress trends 2021

Greek wedding dresses of 2021 are more inclined towards originality of style than to a classic look, according to the website www.svadebka.ws. What surprises designers this year:

models with a deep V-neck bodice combined with straps (both wide and thin);
extravagant open models striving for lingerie style;
asymmetrical models;
wedding dresses for the hot seasons of 2021, made in the Greek style, can be short;
dresses with mantles and capes (including “floor-length”);
laconic dresses made of luxury fabrics without draperies;
models with air sleeves.

Length

Traditionally, all fashionistas choose floor-length models for marriage. They can be called classics, which retain an elegant image and feminine contours. However, a short wedding dress in an elegant Greek style looks no less original.

Such products have different styles, top lines and waists. The same materials, drapery, and folds are used to sew them. The top is the same as in the long models.

The main difference is the waistline. More often it is overestimated, continuous, with an allowance. Solid - tight-fitting abdominal area, made of a different material, decorated with additional decorations. With passes - located at the waist, made in the form of a braid that grabs the fabric, and then falls on top of the belt.