Empire

Also known as the raised waistline, it is located almost three inches above the natural waistline or an inch below the bust line.  Not just for maternity wear, the empire waist makes you appear taller and slimmer, because it creates a new point of focus on the body.  It plays with your natural proportions and accentuates your bust.  It works best for full figures and is uber-sexy for expecting mothers.  But the empire is also very elegant, (think Greco-Roman inspired gowns).  The empire is also loved by women with flat chests and short statures.

Dropped

This is one of the most flattering waistlines for a few reasons. The dropped or Basque waistline starts at the side of the natural waistline and drops in front about two inches.  It creates a V shape and gives a very fitted appearance.  It makes the wearer appear to have an impossibly small waist, creates height and reduces width in the waist and hips!  However, women with puffy mid sections and square figures (equal hip-to-waist ratio) should avoid the dropped waistline.

Low Rise

I know what you’re thinking, but low rise does not have to mean bum-and-belly-hanging-out.  Low rise pants are super comfortable and are of-the-moment, especially for Spring and Summer 2010 collections.  Think relaxed low-rise.  This waistline is meant to accentuate the hips and is especially flattering for top-heavy women.  A low rise waist elongates the top half of the body, making the wearer appear slimmer.  What’s more, it’s not a waistline that presses on any area of your stomach.  As long as you’re wearing the right size, low rise could turn out to be your new favourite line to accentuate.

Dressing For Your Waistline

Remember that you always want to wear clothes that accentuate your best waistline.  You may want to try on different kinds of bottoms to experiment.  Here are a few cardinal rules to follow.

Consider Your Shape

Choose the waistline that best flatters your natural waist, size and proportions, rather than trying to create new ones.

Avoid Pleats

Follow this rule if you are concerned with making your hips and middle appear smaller.  If you are small and flat, you may happily embrace front pleats.  Women with curvier figures should turn to clean and simply waistbands with little or no bells and whistles.

Mirror, Mirror

If you’re unsure, use a mirror (or a trusted friends’ set of eyes) to help you determine the most flattering waistline.

Top Halves Matter Too!

Remember, it’s not all in the bottoms.  Tops are crucial in playing with proportion as well.  Try the waistline with the tops you have to ensure that the waistline complements the tops.

Trendy And Untucked

Current fashion trends are showing tops untucked, creating a less prominent waistline.  No matter what your body type, when you wear a loose, untucked top, you can get away with wearing any type of waistline.  And remember, untucked doesn't mean untidy.

Comfort And Joy

Think comfort, function and versatility.  You want to be able to build on your wardrobe and maximize a waistline to suit various circumstances like work, play or special occasions.