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Our editor has predicted that drop waist wedding dresses are going to be a big hit in 2024. Drop waist wedding dresses feature under Rock My Wedding’s fashion wedding trends for 2024. Low-rise jeans are back, so it makes sense that drop waist gowns would be back too! Capturing timeless elegance with a touch of vintage flair, drop waist wedding dresses are ideal for contemporary brides. With a lowered waistline that elongates the torso, these dresses are made for those seeking a chic and unconventional bridal look. In this article, we'll delve into what exactly a drop waist wedding gown is whilst exploring its design elements and how these dresses can complement diverse wedding themes.

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The best drop waist wedding dresses for 2024 brides 

What is a drop waist on a dress?

Let us enlighten you to one of our predicted wedding trends of 2024…dropped waist wedding dresses! A drop waist silhouette is one that hugs your curves down to your hips before flaring out, hence the ‘dropped waist’ name. The waist of the dress sits lower than your normal waist. Drop-waist dresses first became popular in the 1920s when women embraced the party lifestyle. Moveable fabric to dance in and the squared body look was popular. This is why drop-waist wedding gowns have a slightly vintage feel to them. They’re perfect for brides wanting a retro theme at their wedding! 

Are drop waist wedding dresses flattering? 

Dropped waist wedding dresses give the illusion of a longer torso by elongating your waist and accentuating your curves. Drop waist wedding gowns work by squaring off your torso area, which means these dresses are actually extremely slimming. By not sitting on the stomach or the hips but just in between, the silhouette will elongate you. Drop-waist dresses can also make you appear taller and are a beautiful alternative to classic A-line or ballgown styles!

Is a drop waist wedding dress the same as a mermaid dress?

Although drop waist and mermaid dresses are similar, they aren’t the same. Dropped waist dresses are tight-fitted down to the top of the hips, just below the natural waist. Whereas a mermaid-style dress is tight all the way down to the knees. Mermaid dresses have more of a dramatic skirt that completely flares out and is more obvious than a drop waist dress.

Dropped Waist Wedding Dresses with Lace 

Lace drop waist wedding dresses are one of the most popular styles. Lace wedding dresses are classic, elegant and simply timeless. Take a look at some of our real brides in their stunning lace gowns to see just how flattering these silhouettes can be. 

Drop Waist Wedding Dress with Sleeves

To emphasise the elongating effect of these dresses, you should consider going for a long-sleeve wedding dress. By adding some coverage to your arms, you’ll look even taller. Perfect for autumn or winter weddings or brides who prefer a little extra modesty, these sleeved gowns are ideal. 

What to Look For in a Drop-Waist Wedding Dress

If you’re in the market for your dream wedding dress, we have the best options for you to shop. The things you should keep in mind as you embark on your wedding dress hunt include the length, fabric, silhouette, neckline/bodice and any extra details like embroidery or embellishments. Here are our current best drop waist wedding dresses for 2024. 

Jenny by Jenny Yoo Sheridan Drop-Waist Stretch-Satin Wedding Gown

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Fit for a storybook romance, this wedding dress has a dreamy a-line drop-waist silhouette and a full cascading skirt. Luxe, stretch satin allows for easy movement, while expert tailoring conveys elegance.

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Premium Lace Sweetheart Princess Wedding Dress With Full Skirt

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This showstopping boned bodice gown is oh-so-elegant. Meticulously crafted from embellished lace, this sculpted gown is so flattering with the classic drop waist we love so much. 

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House of CB Carmen gathered-cup stretch cotton-blend midi dress

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House of CB never disappoints and this white stretch gown with a gathered-cup detail and drop waist style is made to elongate the torso and hug your curves with a perfect sweetheart neckline. The midi length makes this dress perfect for the chic bride! 

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Needle & Thread ROSELLA RUFFLE STRAPLESS GOWN

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This ruffle drop waist wedding dress from Needle & Thread is inspired by Hollywood glamour. Dramatic tulle frills are the ultimate statement look. Featuring an integrated corset made with ribbon stitching, soft boning and panels of stretch mesh fabric for comfort and security. 

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Dropped waist wedding dresses are perfect for elongating the torso and are one of the most flattering silhouettes! 


Loving these drop waist wedding dresses? You should take a look at our wedding dress guide for all the advice on actually saying yes to the dress. Want to know what else we’re predicting for 2024? Then, take a look at everything you need to know about grazing tables, oversized bow accessories, and sustainable weddings

Leah Blundell

Written by Leah Blundell

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