What is a tea-length wedding dress?
Tea-length wedding dresses are becoming increasingly popular in recent years, as more and more brides are drawn to their retro and fitted style. The key feature of these dresses is their big and voluminous skirt, which offer a charming and playful look while still exuding sophistication.
A tea-length wedding dress covers all dresses with skirts that finish anywhere between the ankle and the knee. Short tea-length wedding dresses, especially those with full skirts and petticoats are often referred to as a Fifties style wedding dress. Longer tea-length wedding dresses that finish just below the ankle bone might also be called ballerina-length wedding gowns. In practice, most tea-length bridal gowns can be made to order in a choice of length. What is ballerina length on one bride after all might be full length on another!
Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and every bride deserves to feel like a princess as she walks down the aisle. The dream wedding dress is not just a piece of clothing; it is a symbol of love, hope, and the beginning of a new chapter in your life. If you’re considering a tea-length wedding dress for your big day, here are six must-knows to help you make the perfect choice.
1. Consider the Season of the Location
For all of the summer brides out there, tea-length wedding dresses are an absolute dream. Not only will you look sensational, but the shorter dress length is a welcome comfort in high temperatures. Even though some people look at short wedding dresses as solely appropriate for summer weddings, tea-length wedding dresses can be worn at any point during the year. The key is to make sure the other attributes of the dress are seasonally appropriate and weather-conscious. Lighter fabrics like chiffon are excellent for warm-weather weddings, while heavier materials like satin or brocade are perfect for cooler seasons.
2. Determine the Ideal Silhouette
Tea-length wedding dresses come in various silhouettes, each offering a unique look. The A-line silhouette is universally flattering, as it cinches at the waist and gracefully flows outwards, complementing most body types. Fit-and-flare tea-length dresses emphasize the waist and hips, creating a feminine and playful appearance. For a touch of timeless glamour, consider a full-circle skirt that harks back to the retro elegance of the mid-20th century. Trying on dresses in different silhouettes will help you discover which one best enhances your figure and reflects your desired bridal image.
3. Accessorize Thoughtfully
Tea-length designer wedding dresses can easily look like simple church dresses. While there’s nothing wrong with a simple church dress, it’s nice to add some more pizzazz since a wedding is a really special and momentous occasion. If you’re getting married during the colder months, add a classic fur shawl to your look. A chic pair of pantyhose can look really beautiful with your winter wedding look. If your wedding dress includes a cold shoulder, consider a simple pendant necklace, stud earrings, or a delicate bracelet to add a touch of sparkle. A birdcage veil complements the vintage appeal of a tea-length gown, while a floral headpiece can add a whimsical touch.
4. Wear Show-Stopping Shoes
One of the advantages of wearing a dream tea-length wedding dress is the opportunity to showcase your choice of footwear. Since the hemline falls above the ankle, your shoes will be on full display throughout the celebration. Embrace this opportunity and choose a pair of shoes that complements both your dress and your personal style. Classic pumps or strappy heels are popular choices that go well with tea-length gowns, providing an elegant and polished look. Go dramatic with show-stopping colorful shoes or compliment your gown with vintage-inspired shoes. Knowing this, you can go in any direction with your shoes.
5. Don’t Be Afraid of Color
Even though tea-length dresses are outside of the custom, take it up a notch by adding a pop of color to your non-traditional look. You may opt for a slip or petticoat that contains lots of tulle to give the dress some volume and a whimsical feel. Or consider adding colored embroidery to your dress. Or drawing inspiration from bridesmaid dresses, you can choose a tea-length dress in a color that coordinates with your wedding theme or the bridesmaids’ dresses.
6. Schedule Fittings and Alterations
Once you’ve found your dream tea-length wedding dress, it’s time to schedule fittings and alterations. Proper fittings are essential to ensure the dress fits your body perfectly, creating a flattering and comfortable silhouette. Tea-length dresses rely heavily on proportions, so alterations may be necessary to achieve the ideal length and waistline. Working with an experienced seamstress will ensure that your dress is tailored to perfection, making you feel like a radiant bride on your special day.
