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 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 Classic Regency Era Black Lace Dress Empire Waist Ball Gown Plus Size US12 Black Without Shawl History of the Empire Dress Folkwear