30 Stylish Short Wedding Dresses
From full-on shine to simple styles, our edit of the best short wedding dresses will have you swapping long for short in no time
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Floor-sweeping gowns aren’t for everyone. And while once upon a time you might only find one or two short wedding dresses in every collection, these days we’re spoilt for choice with both designer and high-street bridal lines offering a choice of mini and knee-length styles.
Whether you want a short wedding dress because you’re having an informal civil ceremony, a second wedding or vow renewal, you’re looking to change up your wedding look for the reception, or you just prefer short wedding dresses because they suit you better, we’ve got a wide selection below to suit a range of styles and budgets.
From short lace wedding dresses and long-sleeve short wedding dresses to plus-size styles and short wedding dresses perfect for the beach, we’ve searched high and low to bring you the best styles to shop right now.
Short Wedding Dresses UK: 30 Styles For Every Kind of Bride
Radiate laidback romance in our edit of modern mini dress wedding gowns
- Short Simple Wedding Dresses
- Short Lace Wedding Dresses
- Short Summer Wedding Dresses
- Short Vintage Wedding Dresses
- Short Wedding Dresses with a Long Back
- Short Wedding Dresses with Sleeves
- Plus Size Short Wedding Dresses
- Alternative Short Wedding Dresses
Short Simple Wedding Dresses
A favourite for registry office weddings or as a second wedding dress, choose one of these simple silhouettes for a twist on tradition
1. Atenea Dress – MESHKI
A style that replaces ethereal floatiness with sharp modernity, we’ve fallen head over heels with this short satin wedding dress from MESHKI.
The strapless scalloped neckline and asymmetric hemline ensures this dress looks interesting and beautifully feminine from every angle (so no need to worry about getting your 'best side' in the photos), and it’s fully lined for extra comfort and support.
- Sizing: UK 4-18
2. Ecru Dress – Reformation
If you’re keen to go off-white, the cut and fit of this dress from Reformation – with its elegant boat neckline, open back and slightly A-line skirt – lends itself perfectly as a short wedding dress.
Crafted from a light silky fabric, the delicious butter hue looks divine with gold jewellery. And the detachable scarf is the perfect alternative to a veil.
- Sizing: UK 4-16
3. Vivienne Westwood Bagatelle Dress – Net-a-Porter
Did you fall as hard for Sophie Habboo’s chic London wedding gown as we did? If you loved the style of her registry-office-ready silk-satin Vivienne Westwood mini, this off-the-shoulder style from the designer comes straight from the Spring ’97 archives.
The structured corset-style bodice is bang on trend, while the draped neckline and voluminous pleated skirt says, ‘yes, I’m informal, but I’m 100% the centre of attention.’ Love.
- Sizing: UK 6-16
4. Style 115 Bubble Hem Dress – The Own Studio
Voluminous skirt, bubble hem, the sharpest and chicest of necklines – who says a simple silhouette can’t have drama?
If you’re not sold on a super short gown but still want a statement hemline, we love this style from The Own Studio. The almost-vintage hue of the luxury duchesse satin instantly softens the look.
- Sizing: UK 6-18
5. Hosta Dress – Veni Infantino
A mini wedding dress – but with all the oomph of a ballgown! Crafted from a flattering and supportive silk Mikado fabric, this gorgeous A-line number from Veni Infantino has a 3D floral underskirt that’s made for twirling on the dancefloor.
There’s also a Mikado overskirt available to buy separately if you’re keen to make your short wedding dress a second look.
- Sizing: UK 6-30
6. White Crepe Bow Mini Dress – Self Portrait
The oversized bows, with their delicate diamanté detailing, on this dress from Self Portrait make for an ultra-feminine look. It’s also crafted with an internal corset for extra support and comfort without a bra.
Complete the understated look with a cute bridal clutch and pair of vintage-style drop earrings.
- Sizing: UK 4-16
Short Lace Wedding Dresses
There’s a short wedding dress style for everyone in bridal’s most timeless fabric
7. Sophie Dress – Nadine Merabi
The sheer fabric, the structured tulip silhouette, the padded shoulders, the scalloped hem detail – this short lace wedding dress from Nadine Merabi is all-over sexy.
It comes with a separate nude slip (available in two shades) for added coverage and can be styled with the detachable high-shine bow belt. Figure-hugging, head-turning, totally stunning!
- Sizing: UK 6-18
8. Ciara Dress – Charlotte Mills
Combining both the sweet and the sensual sides of lacework, this strapless style from Charlotte Mills is chic and modern.
Crafted from an exquisite ivory corded lace, the short wedding dress can be changed up thanks to Charlotte’s incredible array of accessories, including the option of cute lace sleeves or an oversized bow belt. Plus, the corset with built-in cups is the perfect way to show off your shape.
- Sizing: UK 6-18
9. Hanishka Dress – Veni Infantino
Boho brides, take note: sexy (an off-the-shoulder plunging neckline) and demure (long lace sleeves) are the perfect pairing. What’s more, this style from Veni Infantino is a two-in-one lace wedding dress, with the option to add a sheer lace overskirt with bridal bow at the back for the ceremony.
And how gorgeous is the detail on that bodice? Choose from the ivory over ivory colourway, or ivory over champagne.
- Sizing: UK 6-30
Short Summer Wedding Dresses
Float down the aisle in light-as-air layers of tulle, chiffon and organza
10. Organza Bow Mini Dress – Self Portrait
Looking for the perfect short beach wedding dress? Dazzle in the sunlight in this frothy organza and crepe mini from Self Portrait.
The wrap-style corset features pretty embellished bows and there are internal shorts in the skirt to give that extra bit of coverage and comfort. Add a chic short veil or some cool bridal sunglasses and your look is complete.
- Sizing: UK 4-16
11. Convertible Maxi Dress – Abercrombie
With its hardware detail on the straps, cut-out back and removable scarf, this budget-friendly number from Abercrombie is two dresses in one.
Once you’ve rocked your ceremony and reception, remove the ultra-light sheer skirt (attached with hidden interior buttons) to reveal a dancefloor-ready mini.
- Sizing: UK 4-20
12. Cartier Dress – Grace Loves Lace
The easy way to work the short wedding dress trend without having to commit to a high hemline all day, this beaded and embroidered style from Grace Loves Lace effortlessly transforms from a full-length gown to an asymmetric midi or mini wedding dress thanks to the subtle skirt hooks.
It’s made with layers of light-as-air Chantilly lace and tulle. Just add treasure-like details – think jewelled cuffs and statement earrings – for the ultimate castaway vibe.
- Sizing: UK 8-20 (made to order also available)
Short Vintage Wedding Dresses
These shorter hemlines will appeal to modern brides wanting a retro twist
13. Majella Dress – Rat & Boa
For a modern twist on a 1920s party look, it has to be this head-turning mini wedding dress from Rat & Boa.
A riot of hand-beading and fringing, the sheer style has a separate slip underneath and features a plunging neckline and back with adjustable straps for the perfect fit. You’ll sparkle on the dancefloor in this beauty!
- Sizing: UK 4-16
14. Madri Dress – Bo & Luca
Australian bridalwear designers Bo & Luca have the swinging sixties-inspired shift nailed with the Madri dress.
The delicate corded lace style features a scalloped edge on the hem and flared cuffs, with a lightly gathered puff sleeve that offers a looser fit compared to most short lace wedding dress styles. Mini wedding dresses don’t come much cooler – wear with a long veil and vintage earrings.
- Sizing: UK 6-16
15. Capucine Dress – RIXO
The gold standard when it comes to the prettiest vintage-style prints and silhouettes, RIXO’s Capucine mini dress is made from a champagne-hued silk crepe de chine and features a low open back for wedding party dress perfection.
Fully lined and cut on the bias, all she needs is a pair of pearl-drop earrings, some statement shoes and an artfully draped blazer to ward off the evening chill.
- Sizing: UK 6-16
Short Wedding Dresses with a Long Back
Drama isn’t just for full-length gowns; make the aisle your runway in this collection of wedding dresses that are short at the front and long at the back
16. Volant Flower Dress – Viktor & Rolf Mariage
Trust Viktor & Rolf to come up with a short front long back wedding dress that has all the glamour of a full-length design.
The fuss-free, strapless bodice perfectly offsets the voluminous floral skirt – which has been handcrafted from layers and layers of organza – so you can sweep down the aisle in fairytale-fabulous style (while still showing off those divine shoes).
- Sizing: Made to order
17. Keke Dress – Justin Alexander
Torn between going short or choosing a frothy number? This beaded lace and tulle dress from Justin Alexander gives you the best of both worlds, allowing you to change up your look when you move from ceremony to cocktails.
With its chic square neckline and detachable train, the basque style dress features elegant buttons down the back, too.
- Sizing: UK 4-22
18. Alex Perry Blair Dress – Net-a-Porter
Looking for short white wedding dresses with a high-fashion edge? You’ll love Alex Perry's bridal designs.
The strapless Blair dress is crafted from a lustrous white satin that’ll have you shimmering your way down the aisle (and under the lights of the dancefloor), with a draped skirt and asymmetrical silhouette.
It’s a fully lined non-stretch fabric but the brand states that sizing runs large – so consider sizing down on this one.
- Sizing: UK 4-14
Short Wedding Dresses with Sleeves
Sleeves are the perfect way to balance out a shorter hemline; opt for a little extra coverage with these wedding dresses with sleeves
19. Bow Dress – Odd Muse
With their unfussy, curve-loving silhouettes and luxury fabrics, Odd Muse’s signature dress designs have year-round appeal – and the same can be said for the brand’s bridal line.
This short wedding dress with sleeves has the most gorgeous Bardot neckline carefully crafted into a satin bow and fluted cuffs for added glam. Wear with bare legs and crisp-white heels on your wedding day and with patterned tights for a perfectly retro vibe for every event thereafter.
- Sizing: UK 4-18
20. The Allium Dress – Ella May London
White will-o’-the-wisp fabrics in beautifully billowing layers are the epitome of romantic dressing. Add a short puff sleeve and some perfectly placed floral embroidery, like on this style from Ella May London, for the ultimate 'conceal and reveal' vibe.
The sheer bodice and swishy skater-style skirt make this a perfect party dress for the events post-vows.
- Sizing: Made to order
21. Paola Dress – Monsoon
Another short wedding dress with sleeves that doubles as a great event dress after the big day, this chic style from Monsoon has a high neck finished with diamanté bows and an embellished collar for modern-day elegance.
The three quarter length sleeves give this dress style a different dimension, which we love.
- Sizing: UK 6-18
22. Edie Dress – Nadine Merabi
Pearls… but not as you know them! Be a pearly queen for the day in this sparkling and delicious high-neck mini dress from Nadine Merabi.
With internal shoulder pads and the brand’s signature structured tulip-style skirt, it’s crafted from a sheer, pearl-embellished mesh fabric that’s fully lined for a smooth fit. Simple lines and a detachable white satin belt with small bow keep it modern – not OTT.
- Sizing: UK 6-18
Plus Size Short Wedding Dresses
From lace to layering and expertly fitting corsets, showcase your shape in some of the prettiest dresses around
23. Taylor Dress – Rebecca Ingram
Another short strapless bridal dress that can be changed up for a more formal ceremony look, this beaded pearl style from Rebecca Ingram at Maggie Sottero can be paired with a detachable semi-sheer overskirt.
Like all the styles in the brand’s Curve collections, this is cut to seamlessly hug the contours of your body – expect extra-special flourishes too, like a fully lined bodice for the perfect fit.
- Sizing: UK 4-30
24. Plunge Neck Jacquard Dress – Coast
Considering short wedding dresses but aren’t quite sure on how short you want to go? This plunging high-low number from Coast’s plus-size collection could be the perfect compromise.
The waterfall-style organza skirt is still every bit ideal for showing off those shoes (and a hint of skin), while the rest of the dress is made from a luxury jacquard fabric for a perfectly polished look.
- Sizing: UK 18-26
25. Mavis Dress in Ivory – True Bride
We adore True Bride’s collection of 50s-style bridal and bridesmaid dresses, which come in a wide array of colours.
The Mavis dress from the Brighton Belle collection is every bit the fun and flirty 50s silhouette, crafted from soft satin and crepe, with a full petticoat for added glam. Choose from either a low or standard back – and if you’re looking for short wedding dresses with short sleeves, these cute puff cap sleeves complement the square neckline perfectly.
- Sizing: UK 6-36
26. Ivory Cape Dress – Live Unlimited
Run, don’t walk! This dress from Live Unlimited is in the sale for a bargain price with plenty of sizes still available.
We don’t have to tell you twice that short wedding dresses with capes are one of the styles to covet right now. Chic and elegant, it’s the perfect alternative to swishing down the aisle in a full skirt and veil. We also think this makes an ideal second wedding dress.
- Sizing: UK 12-28
Alternative Short Wedding Dresses
Show off your personal style in a statement mini – new-season bridal has no rules!
27. Kate Blazer – Kindred of Ireland
As more and more nearlyweds turn to modern tailoring on their big day, we can’t get enough of the short blazer wedding dress.
If something this bold and fresh is more in-keeping with your personal style, allow us to point you in the direction of Kindred of Ireland. Amongst its collection of dreamy Irish linen dresses is the playful Kate blazer that can be layered over a dress or styled alone for a modern bridal look.
It’s such a statement piece, you can keep your accessories minimal – think a simple strappy shoe and short veil. Or why not pair with the brand’s fun bow fairy wings for your walk down the aisle?
- Sizing: UK 6-22
28. Meringue Dress – By Watters
Who says you have to wear white or ivory on your wedding day? We love this flirty short black wedding dress from Watters for a modern twist.
With a plunging neckline, bold sleeves and a cute self-tie bow at the back, just let your partner try not fall for you all over again…
Psst! If you love the style but aren’t sold on the hue, this also comes in white and red.
- Sizing: UK 4-22
29. The Wisteria Dress – Ella May London
Looking for a dazzling party piece? Sparkling fabrics like sequinned tulle and rhinestone diamanté are this season’s loveliest detail.
The Wisteria halter mini wedding dress from Ella May London captures the light beautifully from every angle, with an A-line skirt and fun feather trim that’ll have you whirling and twirling all. night. long.
- Sizing: Made to order
30. Retrofête Mischa Dress – Net-a-Porter
If you’re going to go all out in a short wedding dress, you may as well do it in style.
This dancefloor-ready tulle design from Retrofête at Net-a-Porter is covered in light-catching sequins that give incredible movement and dimension, plus, it’ll look equally great on your honeymoon. Your guests will be utterly captivated – and you’ll be shining in more ways than one.
- Sizing: UK 4-14
Short Wedding Dresses: FAQ
Can you wear a short dress to a wedding?
Found yourself wondering, are short dresses appropriate for weddings? If a higher hemline is more your style, then yes, they absolutely can be. The great thing is, there are so many to choose from – from chic structured options to delicate lace and even sophisticated blazer dresses, there’s a short wedding dress out there for every bride style and budget.
Better yet, the higher hemlines make these dresses a versatile choice that can be worn again and again, long after the big day.
Can a short wedding dress be formal?
For example, are short lace dresses elegant enough for a wedding? Can a mini dress be worn for the ceremony? It’s common to wonder whether or not a short wedding dress should just be limited to the after party, but London-based designer Teresa Scognamiglio of Teresa Si Couture believes there’s no reason why you couldn’t wear a high hemline all day:
“A short dress, particularly tea-length or ballerina-length silhouettes, can achieve a sophisticated formality through the use of couture materials like hand-beaded French lace, silk Mikado or layers of fine silk tulle,” she explains.
“To elevate it for a ceremony, brides should focus on structured elegance and luxurious accessories. For me, a bespoke fit is the foundation of formality – a built-in corset or tailored bodice provides the architectural foundation and a high-fashion finish.
“Accessories also make a huge difference,” she adds. “A dramatic, cathedral-length veil creates an interesting contrast with a short hemline, ensuring a stunning visual; carefully chosen jewellery – perhaps something like vintage diamond earrings or a pearl choker – can reflect the gown’s quality craftsmanship; and finally an elegant pair of shoes with detailed embellishment gives more of an haute couture look.”
What styles of short wedding dresses work for beach weddings?
“A beach wedding dress demands movement, breathability and a sense of effortlessness. For a short gown, the key is to choose soft, natural fabrics that will move in the ocean breeze while maintaining a chic aesthetic,” says Teresa.
“My favourite options include knee-length or above-the-knee A-line skirts made with light silk crepe or chiffon. Look for detailing like subtle ruffles or a gentle godet panel that catches the wind without being too voluminous.
“A tea-length skirt offers more coverage than a mini but still keeps the hem off the sand. I often craft these from flowing silk organza with delicate embroidery on the waistline.
“Finally, for a modern and sophisticated beach look, a tailored midi dress in a light linen or cotton-silk blend provides structure and comfort,” she adds. “It’s a chic alternative to a typical beach wedding dress and perfect for the sun and sand.”
What short wedding dresses are appropriate for plus-size brides?
Plus-size brides aren’t limited to particular short wedding dress styles, but Teresa suggests that going down the made-to-measure route is best for maximum comfort and support.
“The bodice is the heart of a gown, and our process involves creating a personalised pattern and built-in corset that’s designed exactly for your body. This allows us to lift, support and shape the bust and waist to create an hourglass or more defined silhouette,” she says.
“The skirt’s volume and length should also balance the shoulder and bust line to ensure the overall look is harmonious and proportionate, while a cap sleeve, elbow-length sleeve or even an illusion lace sleeve provides extra coverage if required as well as visual balance.
“Also look for structured fabrics like silk Mikado or double-faced crepe, which hold their shape and ensures the gown looks and feels high-end and supportive,” she says.
How do I style a short wedding dress for winter?
“Winter styling is all about texture, layering and warmth as an embellishment – and a short dress can be incredibly stylish and seasonally appropriate with the right additions,” suggests Teresa.
“Try a structured jacket or cropped bolero in faux fur, feathers or taffeta, while a floor-length cashmere coat or delicate silk cape adds drama and necessary warmth,” she adds.
“Another option is a short wedding dress with elaborate sleeves, which will provide coverage and texture. Think long, sheer sleeves in heavy lace or voluminous bishop sleeves in structured silk gazar for a look that feels opulent and winter appropriate.”
A short wedding dress calls for some statement shoes! Choose an extra special pair from our edit of the best blue wedding shoes.
