The spring season is finally here, but we are still waiting on that warm weather to complete it! There’s no need to worry because I have a timeless trend for all my fashionistas to get acquainted with while we wait. Seen on runways during the Fall/Winter fashion weeks, the tea-length skirt has made its way to the top of everyone’s spring essentials. This elegant piece will surely have you lovely ladies feeling like you’re sipping a nice cup of Earl Grey at the Ritz Carlton.
With influential pieces designed by Carolina Herrera in her wedding lines to Christian Dior establishing such a traditional below-the-knee silhouette with the New Look, the tea-length skirt has resonated and exuded such class in the all-american styles to the edgy styles. Let’s take a look at how four renowned designers wore and styled the enduring tea-length skirt.
First up is the traditional and classic style of the tea-length skirt. Admired in lines by Christian Siriano, this belling out silhouette has lots of bounce and fluidity. The mid-calf length of the skirt adds a romantic feminine touch to the style. Whether it’s fuller with tulle lining like a graceful ballerina, or enchanting with brocade detailing like a princess, this style will add elegance to any outfit. Try Modcloth’s “midnight ballerina” skirt for $65, or the “tea-length tutu skirt” from Etsy for $120 to get this look.
If you’re a fashionista who likes to take chances, but still incorporates the trend –you’ll love Misha Nonoo’s edgy tea-length skirt with fun peek-a-boo horizontal stripes. This trend will surely add class to any outfit, but it’s always fun to be daring and spontaneous. Leather tea-length skirts and even patterns like tartan have been spotted on fierce street stylers. This style strutted by Misha Nonoo has surely spruced up the classy skirt and will definitely have heads turning. Designer Proenza Schouler has also introduced some spontaneous twists to the tea-length skirt trend. In their spring line, metallic fabric was infused into the pleats, making this classic style more fluid and exciting.
Next up we have some styles that wouldn’t surprise me if they were in the closet of Spencer Hastings (all my Pretty Little Liars fans). Seen in the Alice + Olivia Spring 2014 line, the tea-length skirts are cascading with sleek A-lines and pleats. “It’s preppy meets pretty,” said Stacey Bendet, the designer of Alice + Olivia. By imbuing pieces like silk crop tops, clean crisp polos, and cropped tuxedo blazers, the Alice + Olivia spring line embodied the trend with a relatable twist. Who doesn’t like to look like they belong sitting at the Kentucky Derby with some cat-eye sunnies and a cold lemonade? The H&M “bell skirt” for $50 can surely add this “preppy meets pretty” style to all your wardrobes.
The spring inspired floral patterns have been spotted in lines by designers like Tracy Reese and Dennis Basso. This all-american approach is girly and appealing for all. Whether you pair a floral skirt from Forver21 ($23) with a fitted bustier and some wedges, or a full midi skirt from ASOS ($38) with a lace fitted crop top and some chunky buckled booties, this spring time essential will be steadily rising on your favorite’s list.