Trendsetting 101: Mid-Calf Dresses

Sep 18th 2011 at 2:22PM by Genevieve Cruz

Even though most women wouldn't vote the mid-calf hemline as very flattering, mid-calf dresses are one of the big trends for fall. So, we wanted to spend some time on the style and develop ways you can make it work for you. But first, why are mid-calf dresses back? Lately, there's been a bevy of trends from the past coming beack and this definitely fits the bill, being reminiscent of the longer dresses of the 70s. There has also been a focus on ladylike dressing and the mid-calf dress, also called the midi dress, is both modest and feminine. If you've never tried this length, don't turn your back so quickly. We found that you just have to style it right, pulling in the right accessories and shoes or just be particular about the dress that you choose. Read more below.

1. Team them up with heels:

The fact is these midi dresses cut your calf in half, so create length in your legs by going for a heel. From here, you can rock every option imaginable: some platforms, some stiletto heels or some wedges. With the right dress, we also love the look of boots. The boots should match the dress. For a silky, fancier dress, stick to dressy boots and for a casual frock, try a rugged pair of boots.

Our picks:
- Bailey 44 Dress, $165 + Mossimo Pumps, $30
- Presley Skye Dress, $138 + Annie Boots, $45
- ASOS Dress, $73 + Michael Antonio Boots, $69

Shop all: Mid-calf Dresses | High Heel Sandals | Boots

2. Make sure the dress works for you:

Wearing a dress that is proportionate to you is an especially important rule for longer dresses. A dress that is too long for you can make you look shorter or look like you weigh more. Before buying a dress, make sure it looks right on your body or that you can get it altered to work for you.

Our picks:
- Presley Skye 'Lindsay' Dress, $168
- Maggy London Dress, $148
- Leifsdottir Roxelana Dress, $198

Shop all: Mid-calf Dresses | Midi Dresses

3. Go easy on the accessories:

We recommend the dress taking center stage, so we we suggest not having too many accessories. Our favorites include long pendant necklaces, simple bangles or those box clutches.

Our picks:
- Maggie Ward Dress, $179 + Express Pendant, $30
- Monrow Midi Dress, $140 + Alex & Ani Bangles, $55
- ASOS Midi Dress, $74 + Reiss Bag, $150

Shop all: Mid-calf Dresses | Pendant Necklaces | Box Clutches

4. Remember the beauty of a high waistline:

A mid-calf dress that sports a higher waistline can create the effect of a longer body and thus, slim you out. Look for dresses with smocking that falls higher than the waistline. For dresses that are billowy or voluminous, put on a belt to bring you in and to make a flattering shape.

Our picks:
- Ella Moss Liberty Stripe Midi Dress, $177
- MARC by Marc Jacobs Striped Mid-Calf Dress, $348
- Rebecca Taylor Beaded Mid-Calf Dress, $315

Shop all: Mid-calf Dresses | Midi Dresses

5. Throw on the right topper:

With fall here, you should consider your outwear as well. You may think you can only wear a long coat with these mid-calf dresses, but shorter jackets will look just as cute. We especially love a short, fitted leather jacket with these dresses as they add edge and style.

Our picks:
- Helmut Lang Dress, $370 + Jou Jou Jacket, $50
- Dolce Vita Dress, $130 + D&G Trench, $358
- Oonagh Dress, $178 + Wyatt Knit Blazer, $88

Shop all: Mid-calf Dresses | Coats | Jackets

Trendsetting 101 is our new weekly series, centered on showing you how to wear the trends of the season. Come back next week for advice on another hot trend.

Is there a trend you're unsure of for fall? Tell us and we'll whip up tips for you!