We adore a daring mini with sky-high heels, but there comes a time when a little length does a girl good (see the runways of Louis Vuitton, Marc Jacobs and Prada for examples). When tea-length dresses exploded on the runway this season, we were pleased as punch. Shoot for something mid-calf on the big day and you get a chance to bare your soles (red Louboutin soles, that is) and leave a little mystery, too. 

For the Gutsy Bride
Pastel by Monique Lhuillier

Feel like tea-length is just for retro fanatics? Think again, my friend. Monique Lhuillier’s echoed her famous worked organza skirts in a shorter hemline this season, and it’s clear she’s committed to the trend: Her show opened with a pair of tea-length frocks. ($6,990; moniquelhuillier.com)

View the Monique Lhuillier, Fall 2011 Photo Gallery

For the Retro Bride
Roxanne by Stephanie James Couture

The vintage-loving designer concocts gowns exclusively in a tea-length silhouette, and she insists her buyers come from all over the map (geographically and style-wise). Whether worn for a southern wedding with a wide-brimmed sun hat and peep toes or donned with a sleeve of tattoos and bright red lips, this gown is sure to please. ($1,100; stephaniejamescouture.com)

For the Feminine Bride
Paige by Amy Kuschel

Don Amy Kuschel on the big day and anyone worth their Jimmy Choos will know you mean serious business. Featuring soft-tulle, a curved strapless neckline and a Alencon lace waist appliqué, this stunner nods at 50s prom styles without looking the least bit dated. ($1,740; amykuschel.com)

View the Amy Kuschel, 2011 Photo Gallery

For the Casual Bride
Style #6701 by Voyage by Mori Lee

If “fuss-free” is your middle name, take note: Voyage by Mori Lee has your back. Style 6701 is a sweetheart gown with a high-low hemline that hit below the knee, features stunning ribbon details, flatters the natural waistline and makes your skin glow. Need more convincing? Pair it with pumps for the ceremony and ballet flats for the reception. (Price available upon request; morilee.com)

View the Voyage by Mori Lee, Spring 2011 Photo Gallery

For the Romantic Bride
Style #2109 by Tara Keely

Lace? Check. Plunging sweetheart neckline? Check. Feminine crystal belt? Check. Potential for either pretty platforms or staggering stilettos? Check. A veritable blank canvas for accessorizing, Style 2109 a tea-length dress by Tara Keely is ideal for the hopeless romantic looking to update her old-school fantasies on the big day. ($1,155; tarakeely.com)

View the Tara Keely, Spring 2011 Photo Gallery

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