Skirt of the Season: The Tea-Length

Once touted as "unwearable" and "unflattering", the tea-length has been spotted everywhere this spring from the runways to the streets! This flirty skirt falls between the ankle and knee, at a point most women assume will be unflattering. Fear not, with a few simple tricks you can learn how to wear the tea-length like a true fashionista!

 
First looking back, the tea-length was a popular style in the 50s-70s. Today this silhouette reminds us of a vintage, ladylike feel. The key to pulling off this long, full skirt is to balance its demure characteristics with modern pieces.

Consider height
When looking for the perfect tea-length, one of the most important things to keep in mind is your height. If you are petite you will want to avoid being overwhelmed by too much fabric and choose a tea-length that falls just below the knee. For taller ladies you can wear a skirt anywhere between your ankle and knee.

A general rule is that the most flattering place for a skirt to fall is the narrowest part of your legs. Generally this would be below the knee or a few inches above the ankle.

Create Balance:
Pleated, soft, or full, the tea-length skirt this season requires careful balance on top. Keep your top minimal and fitted, avoid baggy loose tops otherwise you will be swimming in fabric.

For shapes that are more top heavy, choose slimming necklines such as a v-neck or scoop neck. You can bring attention to your bottom half by wearing tea-length skirts that feature bold colours, patterns, or fuller silhouettes. 

Those who have bottom heavy shapes still need to choose sleek tops to avoid looking frumpy, but can choose to wear blouses with patterns or more details to create balance. To minimize your lower half, wear your tea-length skirt in a darker shade or choose a pleated or straight style.

Accessorise:
Spring's full tea-length-skirts are soft and ladylike; to avoid looking in costume it's important to wear contrasting accessories. Look to your bags, shoes, and jewellery to create this contrast in style.

Structured handbags can still look ladylike, but their clean lines look elegant against a soft tea-length. Or you can choose a handbag that is very contrasting, detailed with hardware, grommets, or metallic. Avoid bags that are slouchy and soft.

In the past the tea-length was worn with tights, the modern take on this long skirt shows off bare legs. Only a little bit of your lower leg will be shown when wearing a tea-length, so make sure that your legs are exfoliated and looking their best! Whether you choose to wear heels or flats with your tea-length, be sure to wear shoes that open up your leg – so avoid ankle straps or details that climb up the ankle.

Whenever you're faced with a style or colour dilemma, Savvy Style is here to help! Book one of our Style consultations to learn how to wear this pretty tea-length skirt this Spring. Click here to see all of our consultations!