GREAT LENGTHS: YOUR HEMLINE

About ten years back the length of your gown was a deciding factor in how formal your wedding would be. These days the new code on lengths has more to do with how you feel about wearing a certain gown than what's proper before or after five. So let's get right into what those lengths actually mean. Did you know there's a difference between tea length and ballerina length? Short and mini? Here are some images to inspire you to find your perfect hemline. . . .

 FLOOR-LENGTH-Most common length for bridal gowns, this hemline is graceful and elegant; the hem typically doesn't touch the floor in front BUT MEASURES 1-3" above for ease with walking.

BALLERINA-Ballerina-length skirts fall just above the ankle and are wide and full just like the skirts seen in the corps de ballet.  Full skirts look awesome worn over layers of crinoline petticoats.  A dress this length can go semi and informal depending on the materials and workmanship.

 TEA LENGTH-Falls mid-calf and can be either full and voluminous or fitted. Mostly worn for the informal or semi -formal wedding but showing up more and more at larger celebrations.

 
 

 SHORT-This shorter style of skirt from those finishing just below or above the knee to the micro mini flatter brides with great legs. Usually worn for cocktail and the less formal civil-style wedding.

All dresses by Amy-Jo Tatum
Photo 2 and Photo 3 by Tara Lynn Lawton//From THE BOUFFANT ROSE
Photo 4: The GEORGETTE Dress from The LOVE STORIES Shoot//Photo by Vetter Photography
Photos 5-8: From The City Chic Bride Shoot//Photos by Dominic Colacchio Photography