5 / 5Short black fine-strapped dress with shaped upper pieces and a patterned translucent-looking middle
A patterned middle continues below the upper shape. Clarify the real skirt beginning rather than naming only the bottom cup edge.
A closer look · Photo 5

Shaped cup edge above a patterned middle

A shaped cup edge above a patterned middle creates the conspicuous transition in this close front view. Fine straps lead into black upper pieces. Below them is an open-looking patterned area before the lower surface becomes darker and quieter again. The skirt is short, and the complete back is absent. The bottom cup edge should not automatically be read as the start of a high Empire skirt, because a middle section continues beneath it.

In a similar actual model, follow the entire distance between upper shape and skirt. Ask about lining, support and genuine joins where relevant to your choice. The visible pattern establishes neither a material nor an internal reinforcement. Try your intended underwear and compare ordinary standing with sitting. If you want more coverage, discuss a possible solution on the piece rather than assuming an easy alteration from the photograph. This example is especially useful for separating an expressive bust edge from the waist-position question. Both may matter in one outfit, while remaining different decisions.

At a glance

A patterned middle continues below the upper shape. Clarify the real skirt beginning rather than naming only the bottom cup edge.

Why is the cup edge insufficient evidence of an Empire waist?

A patterned middle continues below the upper shape. Clarify the real skirt beginning rather than naming only the bottom cup edge.

Sources and further reading