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 bridal collection, these days we're spoilt for choice with mini wedding dresses, tea-length wedding dresses and chic shorter styles.
Whether you're searching for a stylish civil ceremony dress, planning a second wedding, renewing your vows, looking for a fun outfit change for the evening reception, or simply know that a shorter hemline suits you better, there’s a style to match every celebration and budget.
From romantic lace minis and elegant long-sleeved designs to flattering plus-size options and breezy beach-ready styles, we’ve searched high and low to bring you the best short wedding dresses to shop right now.
Short Wedding Dresses UK: 30 Styles For Every Kind of Bride
From fun evening reception looks and budget-friendly finds to designer styles, we’ve rounded up 30 short wedding dresses in the UK to suit every kind of bride.
- Mini Wedding Dresses
- Tea-Length Wedding Dresses
- Short Wedding Dresses for a Civil Ceremony
- Short Wedding Dresses for an Evening Reception
- Budget Short Wedding Dresses
- Designer Short Wedding Dresses
- Everything You Need To Know About Short Wedding Dresses
- Can You Wear A Short Wedding Dress?
- Are Short Dresses Suitable For Civil Ceremonies?
- What Shoes Go With A Short Wedding Dress?
Mini Wedding Dresses
Mini wedding dresses have become a go-to for modern brides looking for something a little less traditional. Perfect for city weddings, civil ceremonies and evening receptions, they're fun, stylish and versatile.
1. 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
2. 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
3. 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
4. Sia White Dress – Nadine Merabi
The crepe fabric, the structured tulip silhouette, the pearl-inspired straps, the cinched waist – this short wedding dress from Nadine Merabi is all-over sexy.
The faux pearl straps are detachable, depending on your individual style. Figure-hugging, head-turning, totally stunning!
- Sizing: UK 6-18
5. 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 00-22
6. 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
Tea-Length Wedding Dresses
If you can't decide between a mini and a full-length gown, tea-length wedding dresses – also known as midi wedding dresses – are the perfect middle ground for stylish brides.
7. Norrie White Lace Square-Neck Midi Dress With Voluminous Lace Skirt – Club L London
Modern but undeniably bridal, the Norrie dress from Club L London pairs a sleek crepe bodice with a full lace midi skirt for the best of both worlds. The square neckline and drop waist feel effortlessly chic, while the midi length makes it perfect for showing off a killer pair of wedding shoes.
The drop waist is bang on trend, while the voluminous lace skirt says, ‘yes, I’m informal, but I’m 100% the centre of attention.’ Love.
- Sizing: UK 6-16
8. 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
9. Sleeveless Draped Satin Midi Dress - Victoria Beckham
For brides who want something a little less traditional, this Victoria Beckham number is a seriously chic option. The silky satin, pretty draped neckline and asymmetric hem give it an effortless feel, while the side splits add just the right amount of movement.
Go fashion-forward by pairing this gown with a pair of pale blue designer heels and a cute birdcage-style veil.
- Sizing: UK 4-16
10. Julie Maxi Dress – All The Ways
Perfect for dancing the night away, the Julie from All The Ways is a traditional and elegant choice for brides who want a tea-length silhouette. The sleeveless design, graceful boat neckline and full skirt give it a classic bridal feel and the midi length keeps it feeling modern and easy to wear.
Although it's called a Maxi dress, it's an elegant mid-length design that will accentuate a killer pair of heels when you're walking down the aisle!
- Sizing: UK XXS-XL
Short Wedding Dresses for a Civil Ceremony
Short wedding dresses are a brilliant choice for a civil ceremony, especially if you’re saying “I do” somewhere a little more intimate. Whether you’re getting married at a registry office, town hall, city hall, a stately home, a boutique hotel or a small wedding venue, a shorter dress feels chic and easy to wear.
11. 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
12. Lydia White Dress – Nadine Merabi
Lace... but not as you know it! Be a queen in lace for the day in this structured 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, white velvet fabric and features a scallop edge. It comes with a detachable white satin belt, keeping it modern – not OTT.
- Sizing: UK 6-18
13. 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: AU 6-16
14. Cream Boucle Collared Mini Dress – Self Portrait
Looking for the perfect short civil ceremony wedding dress? Dazzle in this tailored, bubble-hem mini from Self Portrait.
The jacket-style dress features pretty embellished buttons and there's a concealed zip at the back so it's easy to put on. Add a chic short veil or some cool bridal sunglasses and your look is complete.
- Sizing: UK 4-16
Short Wedding Dresses for an Evening Reception
Your evening reception the perfect opportunity to have a little fun with a second bridal look. Whether you’re changing into something lighter for dancing or simply want a dress that lets you mingle and celebrate with ease, a shorter style gives you the freedom to switch things up.
15. 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
16. 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
17. 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: XXS-XXL
18. 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)
19. White Crepe Embellished Flower Mini Dress – Self Portrait
The sequin floral embellishments on this dress from Self Portrait make for an ultra-feminine look at your evening reception. Cut to a cute shift style, it's elegant and understated with a flattering v-neck and concealed zip.
Complete the look with a cute bridal clutch, strappy heels, and a pair of vintage-style drop earrings.
- Sizing: UK 4-16
20. 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
Budget Short Wedding Dresses
You don’t need to spend a fortune to find a short wedding dress you love. From high-street favourites to affordable bridal brands, there are plenty of beautiful shorter styles that prove you can look incredible without blowing your budget.
21. 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: XXS-3XL
22. 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: XXS-3XL
23. Karolina High Neck Open Bow Back Bonded Satin Tulip Mini Dress In White – Lavish Alice
Lavish Alice is a great option for brides on a budget, with plenty of stylish pieces that feel far more expensive than they are. The Karolina Mini Dress is a great choice, with its sleek satin finish, elegant high neckline and statement bow back adding a fun bridal twist.
Perfect for a civil ceremony, city wedding or as a second look for the reception, it’s a dress you’ll easily wear long after the big day.
- Sizing: UK 6-18
24. Structured Satin Bow Detail Bridal Mini Dress – Coast
This Coast mini dress has a real wow factor, with its pretty bow shoulder details, chic boat neckline and fitted bodice that hugs your shape in all the right places. It’s a fun choice if you want to skip the traditional gown, whether you’re getting married at a civil ceremony or looking for a second dress to dance in all night.
Coast is a great shout for brides looking for something stylish without spending a fortune.
- Sizing: UK 8-18
25. Bombshell Mini Dress White – Princess Polly
At under £60, this mini dress from Princess Polly is ideal for tighter budgets. With its flattering square neckline, leg-lengthening split detail and simple fitted shape, it would look incredible paired with a short veil and pretty bouquet.
The non-stretch fabric gives it a more structured feel, while the invisible zip keeps things neat at the back. If you ask us, it’s a great pick for a low-key civil ceremony.
- Sizing: UK 4-16
26. Lace Corset Drape Mini Dress – Boohoo
Featuring an intricate lace corset bodice and a pretty bandeau neckline, and draped skirt this mini from Boohoo is a great budget-friendly bridal find.
The soft drape detail adds a bit of drama, while the mini length keeps it feeling fun and easy to wear. J'adore.
- Sizing: UK 6-16
Designer Short Wedding Dresses
If you’re dreaming of a designer wedding dress but don’t want a traditional floor-length gown, a shorter style could be the perfect fit. Designer mini dresses bring the same beautiful fabrics, expert craftsmanship and attention to detail you’d expect from a luxury bridal look, just with a more modern twist.
27. Volant Organza Mini Dress – Viktor & Rolf
Trust Viktor & Rolf to come up with a short wedding dress that has all the glamour of a full-length design.
The oversized silk organza volant bodice perfectly offsets the clean structured skirt so you can walk down the aisle in fairytale-fabulous style (while still showing off those divine shoes).
- Sizing: XS-XL
28. Sunday Orb-Embroidery Cotton Mini Dress – Vivienne Westwood
If you're marrying abroad in a hot climate, a breathable fabric like the 100% cotton used in this Vivienne Westwood dress will keep you from overheating. We love the draped cowl neckline and flared hem silhouette.
You know this is an authentic Vivienne Westwood design as there's a cute little orb embroidered onto the waistline of this mini wedding dress!
- Sizing: UK 4-14
29. 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
30. Lucy Cold-Shoulder Lace-Trimmed Tulle and Cady Mini Dress – Danielle Frankel
Danielle Frankel is a favourite among fashion-forward brides, and the Lucy mini dress is a perfect example of why. Made from soft tulle and cady, it features a sleek silhouette with romantic lace trim and pretty cold-shoulder detailing for a look that feels modern and fresh.
We love it for brides who want a designer dress with a little personality, whether you’re wearing it for a chic city ceremony or changing into something more fun for the reception.
- Sizing: UK 4-14
Everything You Need To Know About Short Wedding Dresses
Have questions about short wedding dresses? From whether they’re suitable for different wedding styles to how to choose the right pair of shoes, we’ve answered everything you need to know.
Can You Wear A Short Wedding Dress?
Absolutely! There’s no rule that says your wedding dress has to be floor-length. If a higher hemline is more your style, then there's no reason to not wear a short wedding dress. 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.
Are Short Dresses Suitable For Civil Ceremonies?
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 to a civil ceremony:
“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 Shoes Go With A Short Wedding Dress?
One of the best things about a short wedding dress is that your shoes get to have their moment too. From classic satin heels and delicate strappy sandals to statement bows, embellished styles or even chic bridal trainers, there are plenty of options to choose from.
To get it right, think about the style of your dress and your venue, but most importantly, pick a pair you’ll feel comfortable wearing from the ceremony right through to the dance floor.
You could always opt for some statement shoes too! So why not browse our edit of the best blue wedding shoes?
