The empire waist reshaped fashion in the early 19th century. It borrowed from classical antiquity and rejected the ridgid styles of the 18th century. While the fashion looked more relaxed, the societal Vintage Gauzy Cotton Floral Print Empire Waist Maxi Dress, Circa 1970s portmanteau new york Fashion sketch of a Regency era empire waist dress in gold and pastel with puff sleeves and ribbons. on Craiyon Empire Waist Clothing at NOVICA