Short, sweet, and sometimes sassy, tea-length wedding dresses — also known as mid-length dresses — make a strong case to forgo the floor-length gown in lieu of something a little more fun and playful. This ‘50s tribute style screams vintage while maintaining the elegance and glamour of the postwar era. A full petticoat often characterizes the look, cinching at the waist for a flirty silhouette sophisticated enough for nuptials at a hotel, traditional enough for a ceremony in a church and relaxed enough for a rustic affair in a barn. Plus, the full skirt makes dancing so much fun at the reception! But we haven’t gotten to our favorite part yet — this dream hemline is the perfect way to show off those shoes (we know you splurged, so make sure everyone notices them!).
If you think the tea length is a bit too feminine for your taste, hold that thought. While the traditional silhouette is a timeless option with its own elegant merits, the fall runways also showcased a number of modern spins on the look, from clean and angular lines to plunging necklines. Here are some of our favorites.
1. Naeem Khan’s Chicago
Fitted with a flared bottom, this dress offers a sexily modest silhouette made glamorous by intricate embellishments and sequins.
2. Sareh Nouri’s Olivia
A fitted bodice with a sweetheart neckline gives way to a full skirt, made in three-dimensional lace, for a traditionally soft and romantic look in this dress.
See More: Short Wedding Dresses from the Bridal Runways
3. Dennis Basso for Kleinfeld
This number is all about the drama and volume thanks to a dropped waist of tulle and lace.
4. Naeem Khan’s Marsaille
A plunging neckline mixes sexy with sweet in this dress, featuring a delicately embroidered peplum bodice that holds a hint of a Victorian vibe.
5. Romona Keveza Bridal
Modern and feminine with a slight edge thanks to an asymmetrical one-shoulder bodice, this pearl Romona Keveza confection features an illusion overskirt and pencil underskirt for a fun juxtaposition.
