The Best Tea Length Wedding Dresses are making a comeback as brides look for chic, modern, and practical alternatives to traditional full-length gowns. If you’re searching for the perfect dress, you’re not alone! Our comprehensive wedding dress handbook is here to help you find the ideal match for your big day.
“Tea length wedding dresses are a perfect blend of elegance and playfulness, offering a fresh and unique look for the modern bride”
Did you know that 23% of brides opt for non-traditional wedding dress lengths? This growing trend is changing the way we think about bridal fashion.
We understand that finding the right tea length wedding dress can be challenging, but don’t worry – this article will guide you through the latest styles and options to ensure you find the dress of your dreams.
The Best Tea Length Wedding Dress
The Lalagen Women’s Vintage 1950s Wedding Dress is a fresh take on a vintage tea length wedding dress. It is available in a variety of colors and sizes and is made from durable, breathable fabric for the ultimate in comfort. Super affordable and well-constructed, this tea length wedding dress makes a statement with simple elegance.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Tea Length Wedding Dresses
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Lalagen Women's Vintage 1950s Wedding Dress | 4.4 |
| Runner Up | Dressystar Women's Halter Floral Lace Dress | 4.7 |
| Best Budget Buy | Sarin Mathews Womens Off The Shoulder Dress | 4.4 |
| Best Off the Shoulder Tea Length Wedding Dress | PattyBoutik Women’s Off Shoulder Twin Set Floral Lace Dress | 4.4 |
| Best Vintage Tea Length Wedding Dress | GownTown 1950s Vintage Swing Dress | 4.5 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Our Top Pick: Lalagen Women’s Vintage 1950s Wedding Dress
The Lalagen Women’s Vintage 1950s Wedding Dress features a flattering off the shoulder look with a sweetheart neckline. The fabric is substantial but breathable, so you will be comfortable all day and all evening long, and you don’t need to worry about proper coverage.
The short sleeves cover arm insecurities while staying in place. The pleated flare skirt shows off your waistline and creates a beautiful drape that’s flattering for any body type. The deep V has internal boning to stay centered, and the dress is super stretchy to ensure all-day comfort and a great fit.
Lalagen Women’s Vintage 1950s Wedding Dress Key Features:
- Thick, soft stretchy fabric
- Off the shoulder
- Sweetheart neckline
- Pleated flare skirt
- Back zipper
Our Runner Up Pick: Dressystar Women’s Halter Floral Lace Dress
Made with high-quality lace, the Dressystar Women’s Halter Floral Lace Dress fits just as expected. The soft, stretchy fabric hugs your curves and helps define your waist, and the beautiful, intricate lace detail is stunning for your wedding day.
The halter style will highlight your clavicle and shoulders, and the high-low cut is stylish for the modern bride. The back hidden zipper helps keep a clean line. This dress can be hand-washed in cold water or dry cleaned.
Dressystar Women’s Halter Floral Lace Dress Key Features:
- High-quality lace
- Soft, stretchy fabric
- Halter style
- Back zipper
- Available in many colors
Best Budget Pick: Sarin Mathews Womens Off The Shoulder Dress
If you are looking for a simple dress for a casual wedding, why spend more than you need to? The Sarin Mathews Womens Off The Shoulder Dress will wow your guests whether you wear this for the entire proceedings or just the reception.
Perfect for dancing, this high-low dress offers clean lines to flatter your figure and will keep you cool and confident. It’s made of stretchy fabric that makes for an easy and comfortable fit.
Sarin Mathews Womens Off The Shoulder Dress Key Features:
- Off the shoulder
- Short sleeve
- Skater dress
- High-low
- Stretchy fabric
Best Off the Shoulder Tea Length Wedding Dress Pick: PattyBoutik Women’s Off Shoulder Dress
The soft and stretchy PattyBoutik Women’s Off Shoulder Dress is ultra comfortable, yet features stunning, intricate lace detailing throughout. It has a sexy silhouette and no zippers or buttons to worry about. It’s a great length with a sheer lace peek-a-boo at the hem.
The 3/4 sleeves are flattering without being constricting. The bodycon style hugs your curves, and the lace overlay adds a touch of sophistication. This wedding dress is ideal for day or evening weddings. It should be washed by hand.
PattyBoutik Women’s Off Shoulder Dress Key Features:
- Off-shoulder
- 3/4 sleeves
- Bodycon
- Lace overlay
- 5% spandex for stretch
Best Vintage Tea Length Wedding Dress: GownTown 1950s Vintage Swing Dress
The GownTown 1950s Vintage Swing Dress is an Audrey Hepburn-style Rockabilly swing evening dress that’s the perfect fit for wearing to the ceremony and late into the evening at your reception. Made from 92% polyester with 8% spandex for just the right amount of stretch for a comfortable fit, it features a sweetheart neckline with cap sleeves, a flowy swing skirt, and a concealed zipper in the back for a polished look.
It sits below the knee for just the right length, and this dress has a flattering A-line silhouette that looks great on just about any body type. The pleated bodice offers a touch of classic detail, and a panel at the waistline shows off your figure. The fitted bodice features an open-type bust design with no stitching, so if you have a fuller figure or want a more feminine look, you can remove the single stitching line that holds the bodice closed. If you’re going for a more modest look, simply keep the stitch in place for more coverage.
GownTown 1950s Vintage Swing Dress Key Features:
- Zipper closure
- Sweetheart neckline
- Swing skirt
- 8% spandex for stretch
- Vintage 1950s style
Who Should Buy a Tea Length Wedding Dress
If you are personally drawn to a tea length wedding dress, you are not alone. Many brides are jumping on this trend. As more brides get creative with their wedding destination, the tea length wedding dress is a great choice wherever the big day is held, be it a church, barn, or beach.
Since this type of dress looks flattering on all body types, it is an affordable option for brides who want a dress that is fresh and unique. Keep in mind that tea length dresses often need undergarments like a bodice with boning and an underskirt to complete the look. If you are on the extreme short or tall side, you might have to have a tea length wedding dress tailored to get that perfect length. All that said, if traditional floor length wedding dresses make you crinkle your nose, a tea length style might be the right choice.
Important Features to Consider
A tea length wedding dress should have good movement and reflect your personal style. Here’s what to consider when selecting a tea length wedding dress:
- Fabric. You will need to consider how much movement you will need. A more structured fabric will provide a curvier silhouette but may be harder to walk or dance in. A stretch fabric is less likely to need tailoring and provide you with flexibility from the ceremony to the reception.
- Length. A tea length wedding dress is great for formal or casual occasions. However, keep in mind that if you are on the short or tall side, you might need to have the dress tailored to get that perfect, tea length look.
- Bodice style. Tea length dresses are available in a wide variety of styles from halter to off the shoulder to long sleeve. Even if you are set on a tea length wedding dress, you should try on several different styles to make sure the top is just as pleasing as the bottom.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a tea length wedding dress?
A tea length wedding dress has a skirt that generally falls just below the knee. The dress should also be above the ankle, giving the dress a more vintage feel.
Is a tea length wedding dress casual or formal?
A tea length wedding dress can be both casual and formal. Simple dresses with few adornments, shorter sleeves, and a low neckline tend to be more casual, while elements like lace, beading, longer sleeves and a high neckline can make a tea length wedding dress appear more formal.
Can I wear a tea length wedding dress for a beach wedding?
Yes. A tea length wedding dress is the perfect length for a beach wedding. The dress will not drag on the sand, allow for more air movement to keep your body cooler and show off your pedicured, barefoot toes. For more beach wedding dress ideas, check out our article on the best beach wedding dresses.
Are tea length wedding dresses in style?
Yes. While many tea length dresses express a vintage style, many brides are choosing this design for a fresh look. Many brides find the traditional floor-length dress to be dated and they often find it difficult to find a unique look with a tight budget. With proper undergarments, a tea length wedding dress can enhance your bust and show off your tiny waist. They also look flattering on all body types from ultra slim to plus size. Explore other dress styles such as best mermaid wedding dresses and best lace wedding dresses for more inspiration.
Other Tea Length Wedding Dresses We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other tea length wedding dresses. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best tea length wedding dresses list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your big day. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- Long Sleeve Tea Length Wedding Dresses
- High-Low Tea Length Wedding Dresses
- Sleeveless Tea Length Wedding Dresses
- Short Sleeve Tea Length Wedding Dresses
Long Sleeve Tea Length Wedding Dresses
Lamilus Women’s Elegant Floral Lace Bodycon
This dress features a high neckline and sheer lace sleeves. It’s a bodycon-style dress with a zipper closure.
Key Features:
- High rounded neckline
- Bodycon style
- 3/4 length sleeves
Cost: $40
Kiyonna Women’s Plus Size Aurora Lace Wedding Dress
Nude mesh lining helps hide your bra straps in this beautiful tea length wedding dress. It’s a classic, flattering option for plus size brides.
Key Features:
- Nude mesh lining
- Stretch fabric for perfect fit
- Dry clean only
Cost: $220
ABaowedding Women’s Tea Length Wedding Dress
This dress features a classic style with a sweetheart neckline. Back button detailing adds a touch of elegance, and scallop lace trims the bottom of the dress.
Key Features:
- V-neck cut
- Long sleeves
- Lace appliques throughout dress
Cost: $80
This dress features a double layer design with a tube dress on the inside and a floral lace overlay. It’s an off the shoulder style dress with a pleated skirt.
Key Features:
- High-waisted appearance
- Sheer lace sleeves
- Off the shoulder
Cost: $25
VFSHOW Womens Ruffle Bell Sleeves Dress
Available in different colors, this dress has a simplistic style with ruffle bell sleeves.
Key Features:
- Ruffle bell sleeves
- High neckline
- Hidden zipper back
Cost: $45
HOMEYEE Women’s Chic V-Neck Lace Dress
Available in deep jewel tones, this dress features a V-neck cut and 3/4 length sleeves.
Key Features:
- Lace patchwork
- V-neck cut
- 3/4 length sleeves
Cost: $45
High-Low Tea Length Wedding Dresses
Available in a wide range of colors and in sizes from 2-26W, this dress features a corset-style back and a high-low ruffle skirt.
Key Features:
- Boat neck
- Cinched at waist
- Ruffle skirt
Cost: $140
Homrain Women’s Vintage Off Shoulder Hi-Lo Floral Lace Wedding
We are loving the mint color of this dress. It is also available in white, champagne, pink, and more, so you can find the perfect color for a modern or traditional wedding.
Key Features:
- Soft and stretchy
- Lightweight fabric
- Off-the-shoulder style
Cost: $40
AONOUR Women’s Floral Lace Formal Dress
This dress features a classic and comfortable bodice style. A lace overlay adds an understated elegance.
Key Features:
- Cap sleeve
- Floral lace
- Back zipper
Cost: $35
Andybridal 2018 Country High Low Dress
Great for a country wedding, this halter style dress is perfect for showing off your cowboy boots.
Key Features:
- Open back
- Chiffon and lace
- Hidden zipper
Cost: $70
Andybridal Women’s Country High Low Dress
This flowy dress ties in the back for an added touch of detail. Soft layers at the bottom of the skirt add a feminine flair.
Key Features:
- Sleeveless
- Halter style
- Zipper closure
Cost: $65
Sleeveless Tea Length Wedding Dresses
Ever Girl Women’s Knee Length Tulle Lace
Beautiful and sweet, this dress comes in a rainbow of colors and has just the right amount of sheer and lace detailing.
Key Features:
- Tulle with lace appliques
- Beading detail
- Sleeveless with scoop neck
Cost: $60
VFSHOW Womens Elegant Ruched Dress
This bodycon dress is ultra-flattering with front ruching. The back has long hidden zipper and a back slit for easy walking.
Key Features:
- Round neckline
- Ruched front
- Sheath silhouette
Cost: $45
Firose Vintage 1950s Wedding Dress
This dress has a unique design featuring a polka dot lace overlay, high neck, and a built-in bra.
Key Features:
- Lace and tulle
- Zipper closure
- Built-in bra
Cost: $100
PattyBoutik Women Floral Lace Overlay Fit and Flare Dress
This dress features a nude lining with a white lace overlay for a beautiful contrast. The stretchy fabric is comfortable and has great movement.
Key Features:
- Easy sizing from XS to XL
- 5% spandex for stretch
- V-neck style
Cost: $55
The one-shoulder style of this dress works with multiple body types. It has cute ruffle detail, a front slit, and an open back.
Key Features:
- One shoulder
- Ruffle design
- Open back
Cost: $25
Short Sleeve Tea Length Wedding Dresses
Feel confident in this form fitting, high neck dress. It features a pleated waist with a decorative bow knot. A back slit allows for easy movement whether you’re walking down the aisle or dancing the night away.
Key Features:
- Round neckline
- Pleated waist with bow knot
- Hidden zipper
Cost: $45
VFSHOW Womens Pleated Crew Neck Peplum
Rock this modern power suit for your big day. This sophisticated dress has a structured top with peplum detail and a knee length skirt.
Key Features:
- Pleated crew neckline
- Peplum detail
- Sheath silhouette
Cost: $40
Knitee Women’s Deep-V Neck Dress
This sexy dress has flattering ruffle sleeves and a ruffle down the skirt that exposes a front slit. It’s very comfortable and form fitting, with a hidden zipper on the back.
Key Features:
- Deep V-neck
- Front off-center slit
- Hugs curves
Cost: $40
VFSHOW Womens Elegant Vintage Dress
This dress can be dressed up or down. This simple tea length wedding dress is a hip short version of the trendy mermaid.
Key Features:
- Round neckline
- Ruffle hem
- Mermaid style
Cost: $50
Frequently Asked Question
What is a tea length wedding dress?
A tea length wedding dress is a style of dress that falls between the knee and ankle, typically around mid-calf. This style gained popularity in the 1950s and has remained a classic choice for brides seeking a more vintage or casual look.
What are the advantages of choosing a tea length wedding dress?
Tea length wedding dresses offer several benefits, including:
- Versatility: They work well for various wedding themes, from vintage to modern and casual to formal.
- Comfort: The shorter length allows for better mobility and comfort, particularly for outdoor or summer weddings.
- Easy to dance in: The shorter hemline makes dancing easier and more enjoyable.
- More affordable: Generally, tea length dresses tend to be less expensive than full-length gowns.
- Show off your shoes: The shorter length allows you to showcase your stylish wedding shoes.
How do I choose the best tea length wedding dress for my body type?
When selecting a tea length wedding dress, consider your body shape and which silhouettes complement it best:
- Pear-shaped: A-line dresses with a fitted bodice and a fuller skirt help balance the lower body.
- Hourglass: Look for dresses that accentuate your natural waist and curves, such as a fitted or mermaid-style tea length dress.
- Apple-shaped: Empire waist or A-line dresses with a flowy skirt can help create a balanced silhouette.
- Petite: Opt for simple, tailored designs that elongate the figure, and avoid overly voluminous skirts.
- Tall: Nearly any silhouette works for tall brides, but be mindful of the dress proportions to ensure a proper fit.
Can I wear a tea length wedding dress for any wedding theme or season?
Yes, tea length wedding dresses are versatile and can be worn for various themes and seasons. However, consider the fabric, color, and embellishments to make sure they match your wedding style and the time of year.
How can I accessorize my tea length wedding dress?
Accessorizing a tea length wedding dress can be as simple or elaborate as you like. Some popular options include:
- Shoes: Show off your stylish shoes, from elegant heels to fun, colorful options.
- Jewelry: Vintage-inspired or statement pieces can complement your dress.
- Headpieces: Fascinators, birdcage veils, or tiaras can add a touch of glamour.
- Belts or sashes: Accentuate your waist with a decorative belt or sash.
- Wraps or boleros: Add a layer of warmth for cooler weather weddings with a stylish wrap or bolero.
Can I wear a tea length wedding dress if I’m a plus-size bride?
Absolutely! Tea length wedding dresses can be flattering for all body types, including plus-size brides. Look for styles that accentuate your best features and ensure a proper, comfortable fit. Many designers offer plus-size options and custom sizing to accommodate various body shapes.
