Since in an empire dress, the high waistline is located just below the bust line, and the following part of the dress cascades out, it suits pear-shaped women the best. They make the smallest portion of the body more attractive and cover the problematic areas. For those with straight, boxy lines (Read rectangle body shape), an empire waist gives additional curves. It can also emphasise your bust line. It is also good for a petite with a small body as it can give an illusion of height.