Wearing dresses can really showcase femininity and modesty. Let’s talk about midi dresses. A midi dress is any style of dress with a hemline that falls between the knee and ankle. The hemline sits right at the middle of your calf. In modern times, the word ‘midi’ applies to any length that is two inches below the knees to right above the ankle. A tea dress is very similar in length to a midi dress and the two terms are often intertwined. The word ‘midi’ is derived from the word ‘middle’. Let’s look at a rough sketch of what a midi hemline looks like.

The History

The midi dress gained popularity in the 1940s and the 1950s. Prior to that, long, floor-length dresses were popular. The reason for the popularity of the midi dress was due to the fabric rationing during WWII. Lowered hemlines allowed for fabric conservation. It was a practical decision. In spite of the constraints of wartime, women could maintain a modest and sophisticated look all while maintaining a sense of fashion. Its popularity increased, due to the ease of a woman could dress up or down depending on the occasion. It was considered a conservative style of dress and it soon became a staple in modern wardrobes. Some popular designers included Mary Quant, Andre Courreges, Christian Dior and Coco Chanel. Quant and Courreges were know for the vibrant colors, bold prints and fabric cuts.

There was a brief decline in midi dresses during the 80s and 90s. But during the early 2000s, the midi style made a comeback and has remained a staple ever since.

The Length

The length of a midi dress is dependent on the height of the wearer. The average height for a female is approximately 5 feet 4 inches with a shoulder height of 52 inches. The average midi dress length will be 40-44 inches. Whether a midi dress will complement your frame is dependent on the style of the dress and the fit.

Some shorter girls become nervous about wearing midi dresses. But there is no need to despair. Simply select a length that is slightly above or slightly below mid-calf. The mid-calf is the thickest part of your leg, so make sure the midi dress doesn’t end at that exact point, if your are nervous about having shorter legs. Heels also create an elongated look without a feeling of looking stumpy.

A midi dress can be paired with sandals or flats to for a comfortable and relaxed look in casual settings. This is perfect for running errands and meeting up with family and friends. In a formal setting, a midi dress may be paired with heels or wedges along with simple pieces of jewelry.

The Fit

The fit of your midi dress is very important. You want to choose a dress that fits well and one that flatters your body. Many find, cinching the waist area along with a slightly flared skirt, creates a more appealing look. Be mindful of body con dresses. This style is very form fitting and the fabric really hugs the body, which can easily showcase every ripple and bulge. This may not be the look that you are going for.

So the next time you are in search of a new dress, try out a midi dress.