Calf Length Dresses

How to Wear a Calf-Length Dress

Women have quite a few choices when it comes to hemline lengths. Minis and micro-minis are worn several inches above the knee, while other modest types of clothing have lengths at the knee or a couple of inches above or below the knee. The ankle has its share of hemlines, with dresses worn above or below it and, not to be outdone, the calf has dresses that go by the name of calf-length dresses. These calf-length dresses also go by the name of midis, which have never been as popular as the other hem lengths. The reason for this is that more often than not, calf-length dresses appear sloppy. With these dresses, there appears to be a very thin line between frumpy and chic and therefore, they must be worn at the precise length.

A woman can achieve a fashionable look with a calf-length dress with a little thought to the style and fit of a dress, as well as the accessories to go with it. Calf-length dresses are still popular, as is evident from the fact that this type of clothing is available at brick-and-mortar retail stores and online stores as well.

The Tall and Short of Calf-Length Dresses

The verdict on calf-length dresses by fashionistas is very much in favour of tall, leggy women, as the hemline at the calf hides part of the legs to give an illusion of reduced height. Therefore, women of average or short height would appear shorter in calf-length dresses. While body shape plays an important part in determining whether a calf-length dress is suitable for a woman, lack of height can be made up by wearing heels. And a woman determined to wear calf-length dresses for the modesty and comfort it offers may certainly go ahead and don them. Oodles of attitude, high self-esteem, and elevated heels can be a great combination here.

Guidelines for Wearing Calf-Length Dresses

Despite numerous choices of hem lengths, it is often the one that is out of bounds that the woman wants to conquer. This is so with calf-length dresses as well. Using the tips below can enhance the experience and earn compliments as well.

The Right Fit and Style Does the Trick

While this mantra about the perfect fit and style holds good for every outfit, it is all the more relevant for the challenging calf-length hemline. Another factor to consider is the fabric used in the calf-length dress. These longer hemlines in printed fabrics, leather, or knitted material created in straight pencil silhouettes endow a smartly-turned-out look for those with straight or rectangular and athletic body shapes. A dress made from the versatile jersey can offer just that right touch of sophistication while enhancing the figure. For women with body shapes such as apple, pear, hourglass, the idea is to make the calf-length dress more ladylike with pleats or ruffles. For these types of figures, using sheer fabrics to draw attention away from the unflattering length can also help. Another option is to have an attractive deep cut for the neckline on the back, which could be square, use criss-crossing bands, or a deep V or U, all of which can look good on a woman.