Are Basque Waist Wedding Dresses The Biggest Bridal Fashion Trend of the Year?

Get the latest scoop, and shop our top picks.
Three Basque waist wedding dresses
Photos, left to right: Reev Bridal, Rebecca Schoneveld, Danielle Frankel
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by
Sofia Deeb
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Sofia Deeb
Assistant Fashion Commerce Editor
  • Sofia writes and edits articles for The Knot Worldwide with a specialty in fashion and e-commerce.
  • Prior to The Knot Worldwide, Sofia was a writer for Santa Barbara Life and Style Magazine.
  • Sofia studied cultural anthropology and journalism at the University of California, Santa Barbara.
Updated May 27, 2024
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Basque waist wedding dresses just might be *the* biggest bridal fashion trends of the year, and if you've scrolled through social media lately, you'd probably agree. The wedding dress style, defined by a unique V-shaped waistline has recently become a viral sensation, and for good reason.

The buzz surrounding Basque waists started at this year's New York Bridal Fashion Week, when brands like Pnina Tornai, Danielle Frankel and CINQ debuted their latest collections. However, after Call Her Daddy podcast host, Alex Cooper, wore a Basque waist wedding dress to her recent wedding ceremony, and former Miss Universe, Olivia Culpo, wore one to her engagement party, the style seemingly broke the internet.

While all this commotion has certainly made Basque waistlines seem like the 'new' big thing in bridal fashion, the reality is that they aren't new at all. V-shaped waistlines have been around for centuries (we'll dive into that more in a bit), and are one of the most beloved styles for brides. So, if you're considering sporting the style for your own nuptials, you can rest assured knowing that they're more than just a fleeting fad.

To prove to you that Basque waists are here to stay, we've rounded up 15 timeless looks you're sure to love. Scroll through to browse our top picks for 2024-2025, then read up on more of this year's top wedding dress trends inspired by the runway.

In this article…

What is a Basque Waist Dress?

Basque waistlines, which are sometimes called 'V-wasits', date back to the Victorian era. During this time, traditional attire for women in the Basque Country—a region on the border of Spain and France—typically included a corset with a bodice that extended past the waistline and around the hips. The style was meant to cinch the waist, while simultaneously accentuating the hips, thus creating an hourglass shape. They also helped give the illusion of a longer torso. Figure-flattering silhouettes were extremely sought after during the Victorian era (and even still today), since they embodied the socio-cultural norms of the time, which valued femininity. Of course, it didn't take long before the rest of the world caught on to this trend, and spoiler alert, it stuck around. Today, you can find Basque waistlines on bridal gowns, lingerie and even sundresses.

15 Chic Basque Waist Wedding Dress Picks for Every Style

Now that you're caught up on the history of Basque waist wedding dresses, let's get to shopping. Inspired by the looks we saw at this year's New York Bridal Fashion Week, these 15 options offer the perfect way to embrace the trending style on your wedding day. In other words, they'll make walking down the aisle feel like strutting down the runway (and who wouldn't want that?).

Rebecca Schoneveld Lennox Gown

Rebecca Schoneveld Basque waist wedding gown
Photo: Rebecca Schoneveld

It's easy to see why the Lennox gown is one of our top picks for the category. Paired against a simple satin skirt, its dramatic Basque waistline certainly commands attention. Not only does it check off all our boxes where style is concerned, but it also comes in a wide range of sizes. Oh, and if that wasn't enough, it also has pockets. We take it you're probably sold.

Love by Pnina Tornai Strapless Lace Ball Gown with Pearls and Bow

Love by Pnina Tornai strapless lace basque waist wedding gown
Photo: Kleinfeld Bridal

Live out your very own 'happily ever after' moment in this fairytale-inspired wedding gown. Cut from intricate Alençon lace, it features a boned corset bodice, an oversized bow detailing at the back, and a dramatic ball gown skirt that extends into a cathedral length train. For even more Disney princess vibes, it can be paired with a matching set of evening gloves.

CINQ The Essie Gown

Cinq basque waist wedding gown
Photo: Cinq

The Essie gown seamlessly brings the romance of the Renaissance era to life in the 21st century. Not only is its Basque waistline and A-line skirt reminiscent of dresses of the time period, but so is its fabric. It's made from pin-tucked lace, taffeta and an overlay of pleated silk tulle which all come together to create a vintage look. For a little added drama, the gown can be paired with a lace watteau.

Justin Alexander Signature Tarika Gown

Justin Alexander basque waist wedding gown
Photo: The Knot

That feeling when you discover that the wedding gown of your dreams is actually a thing of reality. Seriously though, the Tarika gown features floral appliqués, sequins and beading throughout its show-stopping silhouette. What more could you ask for? Whether you choose to pair it with accessories or let it stand alone, we guarantee it will be a wedding look to remember.

Danielle Frankel Nina Gown

Danielle Frankel basque waist wedding gown
Photo: Danielle Frankel

If you're anything like us and are obsessed with Alex Cooper's spaghetti strap wedding dress, we think you'll love this look. It's made from the same silk material and features a similar Basque-style waistline. The Nina gown, however, has a deep V-neckline (which we're big fans of, since it highlights the décolletage in all the right ways).

Rebecca Schoneveld Vaughn-Ashley Gown

Rebecca Schoneveld basque waist wedding gown
Photo: Rebecca Schoneveld

Choosing between a simple wedding dress and an intricate one isn't an easy decision, and luckily it's one that you don't have to make with this gown. This floral embroidered bodice gives way to a streamlined charmeuse skirt, offering the best of both worlds. Saying 'yes' to this dress is a total no-brainer—the only tough decision you'll have left to make is what accessories to pair it with (luckily, we can help with that).

Love by Pnina Tornai Timeless Basque Waist Satin Ball Gown with Bow

Love by Pnina Tornai basque waist wedding gown
Photo: Kleinfeld Bridal

All great packages deserve to get wrapped up in a bow—and you are certainly no exception—which is why we love that this Basque waist wedding gown features an oversized bow at the back. Of course, we're also obsessed with the pearl detailing that outlines its boned corset bodice. These details come together to bring a bit of glam to an otherwise streamlined satin silhouette.

Reev Bridal Selene Gown

Reev Bridal basque waist long sleeve wedding dress
Photo: Reev Bridal

If frolicking through fields of wildflowers is on your agenda for your wedding day, you'll love this look. It's made from lightweight satin fabric, so it's easy to move around in. Plus, its tiered puff sleeves and Basque waistline perfectly embody the cottagecore trend that's also taking over the internet right now.

Danielle Frankel Georgia Bustier and Skirt

Danielle Frankel basque waist wedding dress
Photo: Danielle Frankel

Sequins and embellishments aren't the only way to make a statement on your wedding day. A unique texture, such as that of this micro crinkled satin skirt and top combo, can offer the same eye-catching effect. Whether you choose to wear these pieces together or separately, we can guarantee they'll be a hit.

Rebecca Schoneveld Mitchell Gown

Rebecca Schoneveld basque waist wedding gown
Photo: Rebecca Schoneveld

This form-fitting silhouette was designed to flatter all body types (and seriously, we mean all). Available in sizes 0 - 30, this size-inclusive pick certainly makes a statement. Made from stretch Italian Mikado, it features a Basque waist scoop neck corset and a high-waisted fit and flare skirt—a unique touch for a Basque waist silhouette

Nicole + Felicia FW24 Bridal Look 22

Nicole + Felicia basque waist wedding gown
Photo: Nicole + Felicia

It's not everyday that you get to put on a grand ball gown and live out your royal wedding fantasies, so why not take full advantage of the opportunity in this regal look? Its fitted corset bodice gives way to a dramatic floor-length skirt that extends into a chapel-length train. Talk about showstopping.

Karen Willis Holmes Roberta & Julianne Gown

Karen Willis Holmes long sleeve basque waist wedding gown
Photo: Karen Willis Holmes

At the intersection of old and new, you'll find this gown. Its vintage-inspired silhouette—featuring a Basque waistline, Juliet sleeves and an A-line skirt—is made modern through contemporary details, such as a structured boned bodice and a cowl neckline. The best part is its sleeves can seamlessly be slipped off after the ceremony to get you ready for dancing the night away at the reception.

Reev Bridal Ellery Gown

Reev Bridal basque waist long sleeve wedding gown
Photo: Reev Bridal

If you're a bride hoping to capture a vintage vibe with your wedding wardrobe, look no further than the Ellery gown. Its silhouette featuring A deep V-neckline, a corseted waist, and long bishop sleeves, is guaranteed to transport you back in time. Complete your ensemble with a string of pearls and a classic red lip.

Justin Alexander Signature Joan Gown

Justin Alexander strapless basque waist wedding dress
Photo: The Knot

Thanks to its arched sweetheart neckline and dramatic V-shaped waistline, the bodice of this dress has a unique heart-shaped look to it. . .which is certainly fitting considering we have major heart-eyes for it. Take a look at the rest of the gown and you'll find that there's even more to love, like its full skirt with pockets and buttons that extend all the way down the back.

Allure Bridals A1100

Allure Bridals strapless basque waist wedding dress
Photo: The Knot

Cut from light and airy tulle fabric, this Basque waist ball gown offers a whimsical wedding day look. It features playful details, such as a crossover bodice and button detailing down the back. Wear it with or without the matching detachable bow sleeves depending on the vibe you're going for on your big day.

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