Are tea-length bridesmaids dresses formal?

While shorter hemlines are typically less formal than longer ones, with the wide variety of tea-length dress choices, there are styles for every dress code. For more formal weddings, opt for a look in a darker hue and made from thicker, more high-end fabric to elevate the look. And don’t forget to accessorize! This length is spectacular for showcasing a special pair of shoes.

What season are tea-length bridesmaids dresses best for?

The good news is tea-length bridesmaid dresses work for every season and venue. More so than the hem length, you’ll want to pay attention to the fabric and the sleeve length to ensure your party is comfortable in the seasonal weather.

Are tea length bridesmaid dresses expensive?

If you’re looking for a style that won’t break the bank, tea-length and midi dresses are typically less expensive than floor-length options. This is because less fabric, embellishments, and labor hours are required, which means you’ll get a stunning look at a lower cost than if the gown went to the ground.

The 25 Best Tea-Length Bridesmaids Dresses of 2023

As any bride knows, selecting the best bridesmaid dresses for your besties isn’t always the easiest task. Not only do you want styles that fit your wedding theme, but you’ll want to ensure the looks you choose make your party feel cute, comfortable, and celebration-ready. One iconic style we’re seeing over and over again is tea-length dresses. Whether you’ve always wanted this stylish length or you’re just curious about the look, there are a lot of reasons to love this vintage hemline.

Now typically, tea-length means the hem of the dress stops just above the ankle, but this can vary depending on the silhouette, style, and designer. Some tea-length options stop two to three inches above the ankle, landing at around calf length. If you’re thinking this sounds a lot like "midi" length, you’re right! Typically the terms can be used interchangeably, with "midi" being the more modern description.

Whatever term you choose to use, we’re here to tell you tea-length gowns can be the perfect fit for nearly any season, budget, and bridal party aesthetic. Not only do they show off your shoes and can easily be dressed up or down, but the cut is famously flattering, as made iconic by Audrey Hepburn’s Funny Face bridal costume. But now the '50s era look is back, and with it comes bridesmaid dress options you don’t want to miss. From beachy boho to full-on elegance, these tea-length looks are what bridal dreams are made of.

Chicest: BHLDN Audrie Dress

tea length bridesmaid dress — Courtesy of BHLDN

Size Range: Standard 0-16, Plus 16W-26W | Material: Polyester

Silky and sleek, BHLDN’s Audrie, which comes in 14 colors, is the definition of modern sophistication with its one-shoulder neckline and figure-flattering silhouette that’s fit for any venue or event.

Best Velvet: Riley Convertible Midi Velvet Dress

teal length bridesmaid dress — Courtesy of Reverly

Size Range: 0-32 | Material: Velvet

Velvet just got more fun with Revelry’s Riley midi. The fit-and-flare silhouette is further elevated with a convertible ruffle neckline that can be worn multiple ways and over 20 color options, making this luxe number a hit for both brides and their maids.

Best Wrap: BHLDN Louisa Dress

Size Range: Standard 0-16, Plus 16W-26W | Material: Polyester

That’s a wrap on your bridesmaid dress search because BHLDN’s Louisa checks off all the boxes. The classic, bra-friendly wrap style comes in 12 hues and will quickly become a wardrobe staple post "I dos" thanks to its comfortable feel and fashion-forward fit.

For a Spring Wedding: Aje Introspect Cut-Out Midi Dress

Size Range: 0-10 | Material: Linen

Spring weddings call for cool styles covered in blooms, like this Aje cut-out midi. The bold floral pattern will have you feeling bright while the linen fabric and cut-out side details will keep you cool from vows to send-offs.

Best Off-The-Shoulder: Revelry Abigail Midi Tulle Dress

Size Range: 0-32 | Material: Tulle

Coming in both tulle and chiffon, Revelry’s Abigail midi gown can be worn with the floating sleeves either off-the-shoulder, one-shoulder, or strapless depending on your style preferences. Both fabrics come in a wide variety of color choices to fit any day-of aesthetic.

Most Eclectic: Aje Serendipity Reflection Midi Dress

Size Range: 4-16 | Material: Linen and viscose

Gathered tiers of metallic fabric and a corset-inspired fitted waist make Aje’s Serendipity Reflection dress an eclectically modern must. Pair it with bold accessories and a brooch bouquet for a one-of-a-kind bridesmaid look.

Best Slip Dress: BHLDN Cali Satin Charmeuse Midi Dress

Size Range: Standard 0-16, Plus 16W-26W | Material: Satin charmeuse

Silky satin slip dresses are always a fantastic bridesmaid choice, and BHLDN’s Cali gown—which comes in 20 different colors—is as iconic as it is timeless with its draped cowl neckline and nipped waist.

Vintage-Inspired: Azazie Tinsley

Size Range: A0-A30, Custom | Material: Mesh

Pretty, playful, and with plenty of vintage flair, Azazie’s Tinsley has the quintessential blend of old-timey glamour and contemporary grace. The flutter sleeve, full skirt, gathered waist style comes in over 40 hues ranging from neutral to bold.

For a Summer Wedding: David’s Bridal Chiffon Midi Spaghetti Strap Bridesmaid Dress

Size Range: 0-30 | Material: Polyester

Summer weddings—especially outdoor ones—require outfits that will keep your bridesmaids cool and comfortable, like this David’s Bridal frock. The tie spaghetti straps, small slit, and floaty chiffon, not to mention the cheery yellow hue, have us feeling the summer lovin’ vibes.

Best Ruffles: Revelry Evie Midi Chiffon Dress

Size Range: 0-32 | Material: Chiffon

Whether it’s boho or beach, Revelry’s Evie dress is an on-trend dream with its off-the-shoulder neckline and tiered layers of the lightest chiffon. Whatever color you choose out of Revelry’s extensive selection, this number was made for dance floor twirls.

Most Romantic: City Chic Ruffled Midi Dress

Size Range: XS-L | Material: Polyester

This ruffled, asymmetric hemmed midi with its ruffled slit and thin spaghetti straps will have your bridesmaids’ hearts aflutter. The square neckline is ideal for showcasing a special necklace, so gift your bridesmaids a piece of jewelry to highlight the beauty of their look.

Favorite Sage Hue: Birdy Grey Lisa Midi Dress

Size Range: XS-3X | Material: Satin

Sage is one of our favorite spring and summer hues, and no one does the color quite like Birdy Grey. This simple-yet-elevated satin midi dazzles in every hue, but we especially love this cowl neck classic in a fresh, minty color.

For a Winter Wedding: Lulus Evening of Elegance Navy Blue Floral Jacquard Wrap Midi Dress

Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Polyester

Whatever the venue, winter weddings mean your maids might need to be a bit more covered up, and this long-sleeve Lulus number creates the ultimate balance of warmth without feeling too modest. Pair this dress with a faux fur shrug to add a touch of winter wonderland opulence.

Most Modern: Aje Cherished Midi Dress

Size Range: 4-16 | Material: Linen

Aje’s signature puff sleeves paired with a stretchy scrunch bodice and pleated skirt make a statement on their own, but in this magnificent marigold hue, we’re dreaming of bright, modern weddings and loud, laugh-filled love stories.

Best for Accessorizing: Azazie Baby

Size Range: A0-A30, Custom | Material: Chiffon

Structured with boning and playful with semi-sheer puff sleeves and a sweetheart neckline, Azazie’s Baby gown is beautiful on its own but really shines with accessories. Add a sparkling belt and statement necklace to set this sweet chiffon number apart.

For a Boho Wedding: Lulus Let the Sun Beam White Tie-Strap Tiered Midi Dress

Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Polyester

We love the white bridesmaid dress trend, especially for bohemian celebrations, and this lightweight, flowy frock from Lulus was made for sun-drenched nuptials. Don a pair of bright heels and include some fresh flowers in your hair to complete the boho look.

Pastel Favorite: Anaya With Love Flutter Sleeve Midi Dress

Size Range: UK 6-16 | Material: Tulle

It doesn’t get more pretty or playful than this Anaya With Love’s flutter sleeve midi. The structured bodice, sweetheart neckline, ruffled straps, and tulle skirt all in the lightest of lilac will make your maids feel like they’re in a fairytale.

For a Holiday Wedding: ASTR the Label Cinch Halter Neck Long Sleeve Midi Dress

Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Polyester

Holiday weddings wouldn’t be complete without festive frocks, and this wine-colored fit-and-flare dress from ASTR the Label is a gift in itself. With a halter neckline, puff long sleeves, and twirly skirt, this look will be on all your bridesmaids’ wish lists.

For a Contemporary Wedding: Azazie Vicenta

Size Range: A0-A30, Custom | Material: Chiffon

Dainty, delicate, and completely contemporary, Azazie’s Vicenta tea-length gown is the perfect choice for a classic affair. The sweetheart neckline and off-the-shoulder straps add the right amount of romance no matter which hue of over 60 you choose.

For a Fall Wedding: Baltic Born Andi Ribbed Velvet Wrap Dress

Size Range: XS-3XL | Material: Velvet

Autumn celebrations and velvet go hand in hand, which is why we can’t get enough of Baltic Born’s ribbed wrap dress. Plus, the mid-weight, V-neck dress—which comes in 13 colors—is bump and nursing-friendly so the entire crew can rock it comfortably.

Favorite Halter: Show Me Your Mumu Jasmine Halter Midi Dress

Size Range: XXS-XXL | Material: Luxe satin

Your favorite slip style just got updated thanks to Show Me Your Mumu’s Jasmine dress. The soft, silky fabric hugs in all the right places while the halter neckline and low back create a bridesmaid style that’ll have your besties smitten. Pair it with a demi or leather jacket for a fun, daring twist.

Favorite Floral Print: Show Me Your Mumu Jess Ruffle Midi Dress

Size Range: XXS-3X | Material: Chiffon

We love a floral print that pops without being overpowering, and Show Me Your Mumu’s beloved Sage I Do Floral fabric does just that. We especially adore the blue and pink design paired with the comfortable mock-wrap Jess gown for a flirty, feminine look.

Best Sequins: Sarah Off-The-Shoulder Sequin Midi Dress

Size Range: XS-L | Material: Mesh

Let your bridesmaids shine in the sassy Sarah sequin midi. The curve-hugging silhouette and off-the-shoulder sweetheart neckline add a touch of sexiness while the tea-length and inky black hue set the sophisticated tone.

For a Beach Wedding: ASOS DESIGN Lace Insert Midi Dress

Size Range: US 0-14 | Material: Chiffon

Floaty mauve fabric and boho-inspired lace inserts make one of our favorite beach wedding styles by ASOS Designs. This V-neck midi effortlessly pairs with barefoot toes in the sand and tropical drinks in your bridesmaids’ hands.

For a Black Tie Wedding: Lulus Alluring Dream Navy Blue Floral Mesh Lace Trumpet Midi Dress

Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Polyester

The most formal of occasions call for bridesmaid gowns that are as unique as they are elegant, and Lulus' Alluring Dream dress is as special as they come. Select the trumpet style—complete with a darted bodice and scalloped lace hem—in either navy or red for a wedding look that’ll wow.

FAQ

Are tea-length bridesmaids dresses formal?

While shorter hemlines are typically less formal than longer ones, with the wide variety of tea-length dress choices, there are styles for every dress code. For more formal weddings, opt for a look in a darker hue and made from thicker, more high-end fabric to elevate the look. And don’t forget to accessorize! This length is spectacular for showcasing a special pair of shoes.
What season are tea-length bridesmaids dresses best for?

The good news is tea-length bridesmaid dresses work for every season and venue. More so than the hem length, you’ll want to pay attention to the fabric and the sleeve length to ensure your party is comfortable in the seasonal weather.
Are tea length bridesmaid dresses expensive?

If you’re looking for a style that won’t break the bank, tea-length and midi dresses are typically less expensive than floor-length options. This is because less fabric, embellishments, and labor hours are required, which means you’ll get a stunning look at a lower cost than if the gown went to the ground.