Short vs. Long Bridesmaid Dresses: How To Choose The Right Length

The choice between short bridesmaid dresses vs long bridesmaid dresses, is a major decision that ultimately makes an impact on your wedding aesthetic. Both styles are charming in their own right, but the right length can align with your theme, flatter your bridal party, and keep everyone comfortable within their style.

Not all brides use the same length; some will have a mix. This guide will take you through the advantages and disadvantages of both types of bridesmaid dresses, so you can make the right decision for your big day.

The History of Short vs. Long Bridesmaid Dresses

The debate between short vs. long bridesmaid dresses has been around for decades. Bridesmaids in the earlier years used to wear identical dresses as the bride-to-be, mostly in white and always with ankle-length style. However, things began to change mid-century. Knee-length dresses appeared in the 1950s and 60s and are a playful and youthful choice. This complemented the knee-high hems and swing skirts that were popular in the age.

But the 70s and 80s brought back the long gown. Think flowy fabrics, high necks, and full sleeves. These looks added a more austere and traditional edge to wedding celebrations. In contemporary times, both short and long for the bridesmaids are acceptable, depending on the bride’s preference and the wedding venue. Fashion trends and venue types are more at play and are outwardly reflected in whether or not to choose short or long bridesmaid dresses these days.

5 Things To Consider When Choosing Short vs. Long

When it comes to dress length, your choice is not merely a sartorial statement—it’s about comfort, theme, and what works best for your bridesmaids. Before you make up your mind about short or long dresses, here are five must-consider things!

The Formality of the Event

Your choice between short vs. long bridesmaid dresses will heavily depend on the formality of your wedding. Short dresses are great for a casual, daytime, or outdoor wedding. They are light-hearted, playful, and suitable for laid-back settings. Long dresses, conversely, add a touch of elegance and sophistication. If you are going with a formal affair or traditional ceremony, a full-length gown is a little safer. Creating a cohesive and elegant appearance, they work beautifully in more formal venues such as ballrooms or cathedrals.

Your Love for Shoes

It sounds trivial, but when you are a shoe lover, the length of the dress matters. Short bridesmaid dresses let shoes stand out. If you’ve selected statement heels, flats or sandals, using a shorter hemline to be able to see your shoes adds character. Long dresses, naturally, conceal the footwear, so you’re not going to get a lot of looks at the shoes, unless there’s a chance to lift the skirt. So, if your bridal party is pumped to flash their footwear, then short dresses are a good call.

The Season and Climate

The weather is also a major factor. If you are getting married in a hot climate or in summer, short dresses or tea-length dresses are good options (and are practical). They’re breathable, help to keep bridesmaids cool and they’re easier to move around in. Extra long gowns are appropriate in colder months or for winter weddings. They provide additional coverage and warmth and may be more comfortable for outside photos or cooler venues. Selecting the correct length for the weather holds everyone’s interest.

Your Preferred Fabric

There are lengths that are more flattering to some fabrics. For instance, Soft Satin Bridesmaid Dresses certainly look fabulous when chosen in either short or long hemlines, but the lovely feature comes out better when it is made in floor length. Satin falls beautifully and has a shiny face; this is perfect for formal wear. For shorter styles, lightweight fabrics like chiffon or tulle are often chosen to achieve a playful, bubbled silhouette with a subtly withdrawn appearance. By coordinating your fabric options with the length, your bridesmaids will feel comfortable and look great.

The Heights of Your ‘Maids

All bridesmaids are not of the same height and body shape, so the dress length might be different in them due to these factors. Tall bridesmaids might feel that short dresses are too revealing, and shorter women might feel smothered by an abundance of long skirts. For a mix of heights within your group you can opt for a variation in length of the dress. Even better, opting for the same color, such as bridesmaid dresses teal, in varying shades can bring some synchronicity to your bridal party without making everyone wear the exact same style.

Pros and Cons: Short vs. Long Bridesmaid Dresses

To help you decide, here’s a side-by-side comparison of the pros and cons of each length:

Short and long dresses are equally beautiful, be it traditional dark red bridesmaid dresses or a more up-to-date pastel bridesmaid color. Ultimately, it all depends on how they fit with the rest of your wedding.

When to Mix Dress Lengths

Mixing short and long dresses is a trend that’s gaining ground. It's great if you have bridesmaids with various style preferences or body types. To get this look, just stick with the same material and the same color. If you decide on soft satin bridesmaid dresses in teal, you could let some wear knee-length styles and some wear full length. This gives you a coordinated look that is also versatile.

Different lengths can also help one member of your bridal party stand out, such as the maid of honor. So, she can have a different length to pop, while still fitting in with the rest of the crew. Just be sure to let your photographer know in advance so that group photos are set up to balance visual height and symmetry.

Conclusion

When considering short vs long bridesmaid dresses, take into account where are you getting married, the comfort of your bridal party and what kind of vibe would you like to have. Short dresses provide a fun flirty modern look and feel, whereas long gowns provide a classic vintage look and style. Each can be quite beautiful when it’s styled properly.

If you use similar fabrics or colors like bridesmaid dresses teal or dark red bridesmaid dresses, you can also play with mixing lengths for the truly custom look. When you plan appropriately, your wedding day aesthetic is going to be exactly what your new squad looks like, in addition to your squad being confident and comfortable from beginning to end.