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What’s the perfect bridesmaid dress length?
This is a really important question, and the answer is:
It depends.
If you’re stuck hemming and hawing over hemlines, don’t worry! We’ll walk you through the decision-making process by reviewing a few considerations regarding dress length.
Then, after you’ve answered the necessary questions, you’ll have the perfect bridesmaid dress picked out in no time — hallelujah! You’ll be one step closer to being ready for your big day.
What’s the Wedding Dress Code?
Photo: Bella Bridesmaids Grand Rapids | Faith Elizabeth
Step one in determining hem length is to turn to the dress code. Each dress code has parameters and expectations.
Here’s a brief overview of what each of those is.
Black-Tie
If the wedding is a formal black-tie celebration, floor-length gowns are the classic choice.
It doesn’t have to be boring, though. So many incredible floor-length gowns are a sight to behold with added detail, such as a V-neckline, an A-line silhouette, or an Empire waist.
A floor-length bridesmaid’s dress adds to your black-tie wedding celebration with an air of class and sophistication.
A question to ask to help determine if the dress is formal enough:
Would this dress fit in at a red carpet event?
If the answer is “yes,” you’ve nailed it.
Semi-Formal
There’s a little more leeway for a semi-formal wedding, and currently, bridesmaids’ dresses of all lengths are trending.
Some brides opt for tea-length or midi bridesmaid dresses (dresses that fall between knee- and ankle-length). Even knee-length or cocktail dresses fit the bill.
The best thing about ditching super-long bridesmaid dresses is… shoes! Shorter hemlines are the perfect way for bridesmaids to show off a pair of strappy, snazzy stilettos.
A question to help ensure the chosen bridesmaids' gown you choose hits the semi-formal criteria:
Does this look stylish and sophisticated?
Casual
If the dress code is casual, sundresses and shorter dresses work perfectly. Rompers and mix-and-match skirts and tops are also fun, unexpected options.
Another factor worthy of consideration is the bridal party dress fabric.
Chiffon, tulle, crepe, and dresses with sequin or beading detail all elevate the style. They add texture and detail to make any length dress look sharp, including short bridesmaid dresses.
Find the perfect casual look in our guide: 11 Casual Bridesmaids Dresses for a Beautifully Laid-Back Look
What Type of Wedding Venue Is It?
Photo: Bella Bridesmaids | Ana Scaparone
OK, you’ve used the dress code to understand which length hemline works best. Now, it’s time to narrow down the options further.
This time, we’re turning to the venue for guidance.
Indoor
If the wedding is indoors, you don’t have to worry as much about the weather since indoor spaces are typically temperature-controlled.
Outdoor
If it’s outdoors, the length of the bridesmaid’s dress matters.
If you’re tying the knot on the beach, the dress length should accommodate sand, surf, and wind. Midi or shorter bridesmaid dresses can work well since they won’t get wet as easily or drag in the sand.
Just be wary of sudden gusts. Wind is a notorious hemline-lifter-upper, so make sure that the length of the dress provides ample coverage.
Ideally, your choice of bridesmaid’s dress length should suit the weather. Floor-length bridesmaid dresses are perfect for colder climates. Shorter dresses work well in warmer weather.
What’s the Vibe or Theme of the Wedding and Venue?
Photo: Bella Bridesmaids Philadelphia | JPG Photo and Video
You’re almost there! However, a few more aspects are worth considering before finalizing your decision.
One important factor is that the bridesmaid dresses should complement the venue style and the overall wedding theme.
If you’re getting married in a place steeped in historical elegance, you may opt for a more classic look and choose a traditional floor-length gown.
But what if your wedding day is more whimsical? Or you’re getting married in an old, dimly lit vintage venue with pressed tin ceilings and an exposed brick wall, complete with a grand piano in the corner?
Well, it sounds like a sequined cocktail-style bridesmaids’ dress may be in order.
Lean into the venue and the wedding aesthetic to help choose your bridesmaid dress length.
Check out dress styles from different eras for inspo, and have fun with it.
Other Things to Consider
Photo: Bella Bridesmaids Knoxville | Jenn Blackburn
You’ve probably figured out the length of dress that works, but don’t go juuuust yet…
You may have a few more things to think about:
Comfort
There’s one very important thing to consider:
Your bridesmaids’ comfort level.
Your bridal party will be wearing the dress. So it’s important that they feel confident enough to strut their stuff in the chosen dress length.
You can always conduct a poll — pick a few options and see if there’s a length everyone agrees is the perfect fit.
Body Type
Your bridesmaids likely all have different body types.
One simple solution is to try A-line dress cuts. They’re universally flattering, and you can always get together as a group to try on bridesmaid dresses to find a fit everyone’s comfortable in.
Your Wedding Dress
Another tip is to consider your wedding dress here.
Choose longer bridesmaids' dresses if you love shorter styles and have the perfect knee-length wedding gown. Let the flowing fabric of their dresses be the backdrop for yours to really stand out.
Mix-and-Match
Photo: Bella Bridesmaids Nashville | Chase Portraits & Rebecca Vaughan
Can’t get your bridesmaids to agree?
If they all want dresses in different lengths, let each choose the length they like the best. Then, you can have the hemline adjusted during the bridesmaid dress alterations.
A mix-and-match hemline will add visual interest. That’s especially true if you line your bridesmaids up from shorter to longer hemlines.
Or, you can separate your maid of honor from the other bridesmaids by having her wear a dress with a hemline that’s a different length.
Learn all about mixing and matching bridesmaid dresses. Read “How to Mix and Match Bridesmaid Dresses.”
Alright. Now that you know the necessary criteria to consider to help guide your hemline choice, it’s time to find the bridesmaids' dress!
Check out our bridesmaid dress collection, and don’t forget:
You can set a filter to view the dresses with the desired hemline length.
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