THE BODICE
The bodice is the fitted part of the dress that extends from the waist to the shoulders

Corset
A form-fitting, strapless, or spaghetti-strap bodice with boning and lace-up or snap closures. Styled in the fashion of the ladies undergarment with the same name -- think Titanic.

Empire
A super-flattering bodice that ends just below the bust, this style looks great on pregnant brides and petite women alike. Very Gwyneth Paltrow in Emma and Shakespeare in Love.

Halter
A sleeveless bodice with a high wrap neck. Sometimes backless; always sexy.

Midriff
A bodice that fits snugly around the mid-cage. Great for accentuating tiny waists.

Asymmetrical (one-shoulder)
An asymmetrical bodice with one exposed shoulder. Extremely fashionable, and therefore popular, in recent years.

Princess-line
Super-slimming, this sleek bodice is characterized by two vertical seams that travel from bust to hem, giving the illusion of extra height.

Surplice
Another fashion-forward style, the surplice bodice is created by the cross-wrapping of fabric in either the front or back. The lower the neckline, the higher the sex appeal.

Tank
A short, sleeveless top with wide armholes, this style has become the most sought after in the last few years. Looks great when paired with a sheer wrap.