21 Best Drop

Jessica Booth is a journalist with over 10 years of experience and a freelance writer whose work has appeared on sites such as Bustle, Insider, and Refinery29.

Courtesy of Jenny Yoo

When it comes to elegant wedding gowns, a drop-waist wedding dress is one style worth considering. Drop-waist dresses first became popular in the 1920s, so even the most modern iterations have a slightly vintage feel to them, and are perfect for the bride who is looking for something retro.

A drop-waist silhouette is defined as one that hugs your curves down to about your hips before flaring out. Since the "waist" sits lower than your natural waist, it gives the illusion of a longer torso and accentuates your curves. It's similar to a mermaid (which is fitted down to the knee) and also to a trumpet style (which flares out above the knee or mid-thigh). Drop-waist dresses can also make you appear taller and are a nice alternative to a classic A-line or ballgown style. Ahead, we've researched the best drop-waist wedding gowns in a variety of styles.

Courtesy of David's Bridal

This bedazzled strapless silk gown is a classic option that just feels very bridal. The applique stops where the skirt flares out into a trumpet, for a dramatic train that will look lovely in photos and while walking down the aisle.

Price at time of publish: $1,299

Sizes: 0–14 | Material: Mikado silk | Length: Floor

Courtesy of Anthropologie

Looking for a a more understated style? This Jenny Yoo gown was created with a minimalist bride in mind. Simple and timeless, it's made of a stretchy crepe material and features fabric-covered buttons down the back and train for a pared-down look that exudes elegance.

Price at time of publish: $995

Sizes: 0–18 | Material: Matte crepe | Length: Floor

Courtesy of Markarian

With its fitted bodice, drop waist, gathered silk skirt, and milky white hue, this unique dress has an almost medieval look to it while still offering a timeless appeal. It's simple but made of high-quality, sumptuous silk that makes it feel extra special.

Price at time of publish: $5,500

Sizes: 0–16 | Material: Silk | Length: Floor

Courtesy of Justin Alexander

A floral lace design, delicate off-the-shoulder sleeves, a sweeping tulle train, and intricate sequin and lace detailing are only a few of the things that make this drop-waist gown so feminine. This is a beautiful and classic option for the traditional bride.

Price available upon request

Sizes: Contact for details | Material: Sequins, lace, tulle | Length: Floor

Courtesy of Nordstrom

This dress drops down pretty low before slightly flaring out, aligning closer to a sheath style. The bodice and skirt keep it simple with unadorned satin, while feathers on the shoulders add a fun and unexpected detail to a stunning bridal look.

Price at time of publish: $598

Sizes: 4–10 | Material: Satin | Length: Floor

Courtesy of Khaite

While undoubtedly a stunning gown, this piece feels more casual sans a full skirt or a train. The pleated skirt and basque drop waist make it so interesting, and we love the banded off-the-shoulder sleeves and column silhouette. Wear it as-is or add a trendy accessory like a belt or sash.

Price at time of publish: $2,400

Sizes: XS–XL | Material: Stretch matte viscose jersey | Length: Floor

Courtesy of Grace Loves Lace

If you want the look of a drop waist without getting an actual drop-waist gown, this is a fair option. An asymmetrical hem mimics a drop-waist design on this slinky satin dress, while a sash that cinches your actual waist. A long train and high slit complete the look.

Price at time of publish: $2,400

Sizes: XS–XXL | Material: Satin | Length: Floor

Courtesy of Elizabeth Fillmore

When it comes to bridal gowns, you really can't go wrong with satin. Unique and lovely, this polished gown is perfect for a fall or winter wedding. The drop waist isn't quite as dramatic as some other options, which gives it a more modern look. We love the split sleeves and plunging neckline.

Price available upon request

Sizes: Inquire | Material: Satin, crepe | Length: Floor

Courtesy of ASOS

Fitted tight to just below the hips, this dress has a high slit right up to the drop waist. It's simple and perfect for a minimalist, casual bride, or beach bride. And the price is great at under $300, but to the untrained eye, it looks like a higher-end pick.

Price at time of publish: $260

Sizes: 2–12 | Material: Polyester, spandex | Length: Floor

Courtesy of Markarian

Looking for a hint of glitz? Feminine details like thin straps, a full skirt, and a crystal belt make this drop-waist gown feel so special but not too over-the-top. The crystal detail keeps it interesting and also adds some nice sparkle.

Price at time of publish: $5,495

Sizes: 0–14 | Material: Silk faille | Length: Floor

Anthropologie

The corded lace detail of this gown makes it almost hard to see the drop-waist style, but it's there. The intricate design is gorgeous, and we especially love the open back with a delicate row of fabric-covered buttons down the middle. Keep it simple with a few pear-tipped hair pins or consider wearing a veil for a more traditional look.

Price at time of publish: $1,400

Sizes: 00–15 | Material: Cotton, nylon, spandex | Length: Floor

Courtesy of David's Bridal

This lace gown is both traditional and more boho-inspired, which is, in a large part, thanks to the detachable sleeves that offer some fun fringe. If you don't love the sleeves, you can always leave them off and still have a beautiful dress.

Price at time of publish: $499

Sizes: 16–30 | Material: Polyester | Length: Floor

Courtesy of Gelareh

Interested in something more current? Oh-so-structural and giving off a contemporary feel, this statement-making dress is not for the traditional bride. It's meant to stand out as it features unique cut-outs, a drop waist, and a two-piece silhouette.

Price at time of publish: $2,200

Sizes: Small | Material: Suede, crepe, lycra | Length: Floor

Houghton NYC

This stunning dress has an unexpected halter neckline that flatters the shoulders and creates the illusion of an elongated neck, but it's otherwise pretty traditional. The subtle drop waist gives way to a flowing skirt and a long cathedral train, and it's basically backless for some sex appeal.

Price at time of publish: $15,000

Sizes: 0–30 | Material: Chantilly lace, silk chiffon | Length: Floor

Courtesy of Fame and Partners

White might be traditional for a bride, but that doesn't mean you have to wear it. Do something different in this champagne-colored dress, which is festive and fun, and bound to stand out. We love how the princess-inspired silhouette is balanced out with simple matte satin fabric and delicate spaghetti straps.

Price at time of publish: $285

Sizes: 0–22 | Material: Matte satin | Length: Floor

Courtesy of Justin Alexander

The drop waist of this traditional bridal gown is not immediately obvious, which is part of what makes it feel so classic. A true ballgown fit for a princess bride, it features lace and beading, and a chapel-train skirt that feels magical without being over-the-top.

Price available upon request

Sizes: Inquire | Material: Lace, tulle | Length: Floor

Courtesy of Anthropologie

Cinched detailing, one off-the-shoulder sleeve, a unique neckline, and a high slit make this dress feel very of the moment—in the best way! It's a beautiful and different option for fashion-forward brides who want to make a statement while still looking bridal.

Price at time of publish: $1,295

Sizes: 0–16 | Material: Polyester | Length: Floor

Courtesy of Anthropologie

The knitted crochet fabric on this gown makes it feel very bohemian with a laid-back look that's still plenty formal and undoubtedly bridal. Details like a plunging neckline and low back give it an alluring feel as well.

Price at time of publish: $1,690

Sizes: 0–16 | Material: Polyester | Length: Floor

Courtesy of Houghton

The Brandy Dress is a ballgown with a twist. The full skirt and floral lace throughout give it a feminine feel, while the drop waist makes it stand out among other ball gowns. Go bare-armed or opt for the matching petticoat to complete your bridal look.

Price at time of publish: $6,750

Sizes: 0–30 | Material: Silk | Length: Floor

Courtesy of Anthropologie

Go for a trendy and youthful vibe with this two-piece bridal set that features a strapless crop top. The skirt is tight around the hips and then flares out to be more full, as bands of organza provide an undeniably bridal feel.

Price at time of publish: $950

Sizes: 0–16 | Material: Organza | Length: Floor

Courtesy of Houghton

Made of comfortable stretchy silk jersey, the Nicole Dress is just right for the low-maintenance bride who still wants to look and feel glamorous. The drop waist and ruching are beautiful details, and the long sleeves make it perfect for indoor evening affairs and cooler-weather weddings in the fall or winter.

Price at time of publish: $3,900

Sizes: XS–XXXL | Material: Silk stretch jersey | Length: Floor

There are a few things to keep in mind as you plan your big day and look for the perfect drop-waist wedding dress. When making your choice, think about the dress's drop waist length, fabric, silhouette, neckline, and details. Find a drop-waist that compliments your figure and makes you feel beautiful; you will treasure these photos forever.

When searching for the perfect drop-waist wedding dress, decide how bold you want the waist to be. As with the Houghton by Katharine Polk Diane Dress, some drop waists are subtle to the point where you can barely even tell they're there and really give the appearance of elongating the torso.Some are much more obvious and dramatic, with a more vintage, princess-inspired feel, like the Mac Duggal Feather Detail Satin Sheath Gown and the Fame and Partners Gathered Drop Waist Gown. And others are a perfect mix in the middle.

Drop-waist wedding dresses typically have a fitted bodice that extends into a dropped waistline, creating a longer torso appearance. Look for a silhouette that flatters your body shape and accentuates your curves in a way that makes you feel comfortable and confident. For a stunning and sultry wedding look, we recommend the Rish Cleo Gown with its high slit and drop waist. The Justin Alexander Dropped Waist Tulle Ball Gown and the Beaded Lace Ball Gown are the best options if you want a classic drop-waist silhouette.

Additionally, consider the bodice style and what type of sleeves you want. Drop-waist dresses often have fitted bodices with low V or sweetheart necklines, like the Oleg Cassini Strapless Drop Waist Lace and Mikado Wedding Dress. Beyond that, you can find strapless gowns, as well as options with delicate spaghetti straps, flirty off-the-shoulder cuts, cap sleeves, split sleeves, short sleeves, and long-sleeve styles.

A drop-waist wedding dress one that hugs your curves down to about your hips before flaring out into a more full skirt. It accentuates your curves and can create the illusion of a longer torso.

Drop-waist and mermaid styles are similar but are not the same. A drop-waist dress is tight to about the top of the hips, and a mermaid dress is tight down to the knees before flaring out. The skirt of a mermaid dress also tends to be a bit more dramatic than a drop-waist skirt.

Anyone can wear a drop-waist gown, but they do accentuate your curves, especially the hip area. If you don't want something that is tight on your hips, avoid this style.

Contributing writer Jessica Booth is a freelance writer and formerly served as an editor for seven years. Her work has been featured in Bustle, Insider, Redbook, and Refinery29.