Dresses come in several different lengths/hemlines. And different lengths mean different styles, that all are suitable for different occasions. Do you know the different dress styles, their typical lengths/hemlines and what occcasions they are suitable for? Let us help you!
Looking for Dress Size Chart?
Looking for a ordinary dress size chart to determine your dress size? See here to determine US, UK or EU dress size from waist, hips and bust measurements.
But now; let us talk about dress lengths and styles...
Dress Length IllustrationDress length is the length from transition between shoulder and neck and down to the hemline of the dress. Dress length is sometimes reffered to as hemline (but then it is most often measured from the floor and up.)
See illustration below for different dress lengths. These are typical dress lengths used by many dress manufacturers. Note: some brands may also use different dress lenghts.
Dress Length Chart:
Dress Lengths:
Micro dress
Very short dress for party/night club use. Do not wear a micro dress in a formal setting.
When is it to short? A thumb rule: put your arms down at your sides. If hemline falls below you fingertips (you don't need to stretch your fingers), it is safe to wear!
Mini dress
Short dress. Hemline falls mid-thigh. Perfect for party nights. Never use a mini dress in formal occasions.
When is it to short? Again: put your arms down at your sides. If hemline falls below you fingertips (you don´t need to stretch your fingers), it is safe to wear!
Just above knee (Cocktail dress)
This dress ends few inches above knee. Ideal for cocktail parties. Be careful showing off knees in formal settings!
Knee lenght dress
Hemline ends at knee height. Can be used in the office (formal style, usually black). Also Ideal for cocktail parties or garden parties. May also be used in other semi-formal settings.
Just below knee
Hemline ends just below knee. Knees are hidden, which means you can use these dresses for all business use and in semi formal settings.
Calf length (Tea length dress)
Hemline ends mid-calf. Also called Tea length dress og Tea dress. Perfect for evening parties (not gala). Might actually also be used by bridesmaids.
Ankle length dress
Guess what: hemline ends at the ankle :) Ankle length dresses are ideal for formal evening parties, balls and galas.
Floor length dress
This dress goes all the way down to the floor. The most formal dress of them all. It actually makes you feel like a princess. Use for black tie galas, wedding (your own?) and very special parties!
See Also Skirt Lengths
Tips, Tricks or Questions about Dress Lengths?