The Long (Not The Short) Of It – Tea Length Skirt Trend
If you wait long enough eventually everything comes around, so it’s a happy day now that long skirts are back on the fashion scene. You can hear the roar of cheers from gals over 40.
Not only are these skirts very practical, if you want to cover heavy, veiny, or not-so-perfect gams, but they are so darn pretty and feminine that they are flying off the racks.
Here’s a look at where designers are going with the new tea-length skirt
Now that spring is finally in the air, romance and whimsy walk down the runway in the form of an old classic: the tea-length skirt. The hemline of this skirt hits about mid-calf for an ultra-ladylike look. Think Grace Kelly circa 1954 in “Rear Window” in that classic black and white tea-length dress.
Here are some tips for pulling this retro silhouette without looking like you’ve come straight from the 50s:
What to Wear With Long Skirt
When it comes to what to wear on top of a tea-length skirt, the options are endless. Just be sure that you choose something more fitted, in contrast with the skirt, so that you don’t end up looking swamped in fabric. Since the skirt is a dramatic piece in itself, select a top that doesn’t try to compete with it. A classic button-down shirt in white, or in an accent color, looks classy paired with a floral A-line tea skirt.
For a more casual vibe, opt for a cotton tank and a jean jacket.
Tea-length for the Vertically Challenged
This skirt is such a cute and comfortable option for spring, but can shorter girls take advantage of the trend without looking swallowed up in it? Where there’s a will, there’s a way! If you’re shorter, choose a skirt with a higher waist and accent with a belt (not wide). This will make it look as though you have longer legs.
Day-to-Night
The tea-length skirt is a versatile piece that can easily transition from day to night. Here’s an example of how to wear a pleated midi skirt. By day at the office, pair this pink and gray midi skirt with a classic, fitted white shirt, colorful cardigan, and wedges.
Going out for dinner? Glam it up with a silky camisole, leather jacket, clutch, and heels.
When shopping for your skirt, choose one that you’ll be able to pair with multiple outfits. A neutral skirt is one good way to do this. A patterned skirt can be very versatile too because you can wear it with any color pulled from the print.
Shoes to Wear With Long Skirts
Since a longer skirt covers so many legs, you will want to somehow lengthen your legs and feet as much as possible. A flat shoe can make you look stumpy, so choose a shoe with a bit of a heel. A wedge is a great option for a comfortable heel that’s easy to walk in, even at taller heights. A kitten or mid-height sandal is another warm-weather option that can be found in a variety of cute spring colors to add a playful pop to your outfit.
Need something more formal? Try a classic black pump with an A-line tea skirt for a timeless, classy look. The footwear to avoid when wearing a tea-length skirt: booties. Any shoe that sits higher up on your foot is going to shorten the look of your leg. Stick to an open shoe and don’t be afraid of a little toe cleavage for that extra length!
Try it Out!
The tea-length skirt may seem intimidating to style, but you can easily avoid looking too retro as long as you keep the rest of your outfit looking minimal and modern. Bold colors and accessories are a great way to keep it looking fresh. So embrace your romantic, feminine side this spring with this classic silhouette.
Stylist: Chantelle Collier
I’m going to wear a tea length with flats – Audrey Hepburn did, and I am petite like her! White shirt, longer skirt and ballerina sandals. I can’t wait til our summer (I’m in OZ)
Hi Sarah, You will look like a princess. Be sure to send a photo. Cheers, Deborah
Ha! I was ahead of this trend. I just bought my tea-length gown for my girl’s wedding last month. It’s very dressy, yet the length makes it adaptable for outdoor ceremonies that move into the charming lodge. It’s perfect for those outdoor-to-indoor occasions.
Hi Kathy, Good thinking. I think this is the perfect thing to wear as the bride’s mother or as just a guest. These tea-length skirts are so elegant and classy. I hope you had a great time at the wedding. Cheers! Deborah
I love to wear skirts to work. Now that summer is almost here; I try to wear them as much as possible. My question is, is it okay to wear them with flats too? I don’t do well with heels, and apartments tend to be much comfier.
I love wearing long skirts and dresses because the veins have taken over after having four children. In the winter I can wear shorter skirts with tights and boots but what do you do in the summer? I think it’s great.
I never liked these. I think long skirts belong on formal occasions. Maybe that’s my southern upbringing, but they look incredibly ridiculous in the summer when it’s over 100 degrees, and people are wearing long skirts with halter tops dresses.
I say hooray for choice! I usually wear knee-length, but it’s nice to have options. I think the midi length is the hardest to pull off; looks best on long legs and short torso. It truly simplifies me
I think long skirts are here to stay, but you must be careful about the pattern and length for your specific leg length. If the design is too busy, and the size is at the calf, it makes you look a bit older or reminds me of something vintage. Vintage is not a bad thing, however! Of course, those skirts in the featured photos look good on those models because they are young and thin and have long legs!
Hi Jillian,
Yes, this style is effortless when you are tall and thin. Heels help!
I agree with others who mentioned boots with longer skirts. I believe a fabulous pair of boots save the longer skirts from looking frumpy. Also, I like the look of black tights/hose with black shoes to create a similar sleek effect. For eveningwear, a below-knee dress looks elegant but needs the elegance of high heels and strappy sandals. I love long skirts worn with cool belts and scarves, but boots save the day!
Hi Cindy,
They sure do, and you can get away with flat or tall boots with skirts and still look so chic! Much more comfy than pants in my book!
I’m not a fan of long skirts- they remind me too much of my mom in the 80s… maybe someday I’ll try it, but for now, I’ll stick to knee length!
Hi Megan,
It is so funny how the designers love to raise and lower skirt lengths and widen and narrow pants…it is a never-ending cycle to keep us buying buying buying!! However, longer skirts can make you feel dumpy if you are on the short side. You’re correct in sticking with knee length if you think you look best in that style!
Being petite, I’m not too crazy about longer lengths. In winter, I like to pair long skirts with boots, so there isn’t a break in color to the floor. My best length is shorter than the knee or around the knee. I use tan towels in the summer and like the new nude shoes everywhere. Bonnie
I always wear my skirts at the most flattering level for my figure. I do like them a little longer if worn with boots. If the dress is fuller, it can look great longer – longer slim skirts can move into the seedy area. It’s an individual thing, but at least those who love the longs and have it swish around will be right in style.
I agree it’s about time! I know the perfect length for my legs is just below the knee. It is frustrating to feel totally out of fashion, sticking with what I know best suits me. Hurrah! for making EVERY skirt length appropriate at ANY time!
I love it for fall, especially with an excellent boot. Gives such a long, lean line to the body. I do think I’ll pass on the velvet wrapped around my 50 yr old hips this time, though :)
I LOVE it! So about time! It’s Jackie O and Audrey Hepburn all over again. Very classy. Chic. And a leaves a little more to the imagination.
Hi Lynn,
Exactly!!
I love them! I think they look very feminine and can be dressed up or down. Agree they need a pretty strappy sandal to make the look complete, especially in the warmer weather.