Plus Size Tea Length Formals
From LoveToKnow Plussize
Plus size tea length formals reach anywhere between the ankle and knee and are a versatile plus to any wardrobe.
The Elegant Tea Length Details
Tea length dresses are the epitome of femininity. They are called "tea length" because they were once the expected attire when attending an afternoon tea or ladies' luncheon. These fun, light dresses are often brightly colored but are also available in more subdued tones. The traditional tea length dress comes in a floral chiffonny with a cinched waistline. However, today's styles vary widely. Necklines can be found with scooped necks, V-necks or something more conservative. Waistlines may or may not be fitted. The end result is that no matter what your preference, you're bound to find a tea length formal you like for your special occasion.
While the tea length is known for its casual elegance, it is important to find shoes that complement your dress for that finished have-it-altogether look. Heels are most often the shoes of choice worn with tea length formals, but there isn't one standard heel height in vogue. You can choose from shoes with:
- High heels
- Low heels
- Open-toed
- Closed-toed
When to Wear a Tea Length Formal
Since tea length formal dresses are available in a number of styles, they can easily be worn when a cocktail dress is appropriate. They are also acceptable as evening wear and are versatile enough to be worn for events such as:
- Bridal shower
- Bridesmaid's dress (casual wedding)
- Brunch
- High Tea
- Mother of the bride dress
- Parties
- Prom
Shopping for Plus Size Tea Length Formals
If you're in the market for a tea length formal dress, take the time to shop around first. The Internet is a great place to start because you can see the variety and sizes available from companies that specialize in quality clothing in plus sizes. This gives you options to shop online and can also help you decide where to go if you want to visit a brick and mortar store to try something on for fit.
Online Resources
You can find current plus size tea length formals at the following online stores:
Bridal Shops
Another way to locate what you're looking for in tea length plus size dresses is to call the bridal shops in your area. Tea length formals are a popular choice for mother of the bride dresses and are commonly worn by bridesmaids as well. For casual and outdoor weddings they are also a popular choice for brides. Bridal shops have staff equipped to help find the perfect dress for you and to make sure it fits you to the tea.
Thrifts Stores and Resale Shops
One last suggestion for finding a tea length formal is to visit your local thrift stores and resale shops. Take the time to scour the racks for a vintage plus size tea length dress. You never know what you'll find, but if you're not in a hurry, this can be a great way to find a dress and save money. Formal clothing found in resale shops is often almost like new, and if you find what you're looking for through this avenue, it is less likely anyone else at the event will be wearing the same dress as you.
Benefits of Choosing a Tea Length Dress
Buying tea length formals offers a number of benefits to the versatility of your wardrobe. They can be worn for formal occasions as well as more casual affairs. The length makes them easier to move about in than a floor length gown. They are most often made of lightweight fabrics; this combined with the shorter length makes them ideal in crowds where it's easy to get overheated.
Stay cool this summer even for those more formal occasions. Wear a flirty tea length dress and have fun.
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This page has been accessed 1,856 times. This page was last modified 20:55, 26 June 2009.
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