35 of Our Favourite Short Wedding Dresses
From boho designs and short wedding dresses with trains, our edit or the best shorter wedding dresses will have you swapping long for short in no time!
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While floor-sweeping wedding dresses remain the most popular choice, searches for short wedding dresses are on the rise, and for good reason too! A full-length gown isn’t for everyone – and there's plenty of choice out there if you want to rock a shorter bridal dress on your wedding day.
Once upon a time you'd have found maybe one or two short designer wedding dresses in a collection, but now you're spoilt for choice with both high-end designers and high street wedding brands offering shorter, chicer styles.
You might be having a more informal wedding; you might be having a smaller or second wedding and want it to feel more relaxed; or you might simply prefer short wedding dresses because they suit you better. Whatever the reason, you can get short wedding dresses to suit a range of budgets and aesthetics.
Short Wedding Dresses to Suit Every Style of Bride
From simple short wedding dresses to embellished pearl wedding dresses and even wedding dresses with pockets, we've searched the high street and the latest designer collections to help you join the high-hemline gang on your wedding day. Happy shopping...
- Short Simple Wedding Dresses
- Short Lace Wedding Dress Designs
- Short Beach Wedding Dresses
- Short Vintage Wedding Dresses
- Long Back Short Front Wedding Dress Designs
- Plus Size Short Wedding Dress Designs
- Short Casual Wedding Dresses
Short Simple Wedding Dresses
A short simple wedding dress is perfect for a registry office wedding or as a second wedding dress. These simple silhouettes make these short wedding dresses some of the chicest in this edit!
1. Lara Sequin Short Wedding Dress - Rixo
Sticking with sparkle, we love Rixo's Lara for the way it catches the light – and for the statement black bow at the back that adds drama. None of your wedding guests will expect to see that as you walk down the aisle! It's a lovely nod to the wedding dresses with bows trend and having a Rixo piece in your wardrobe will be a timeless investment that you can re-wear at parties for seasons to come.
- Sizing: UK 6 - UK 20
- Expert Take: The bow back will conceal a strapless bra. As this short wedding dress is embellished in sequins it can only be dry-cleaned but you're likely to want to get your wedding dress professionally washed regardless of its material.
2. House of CB Loretta Satin Short Dress - Selfridges
Want to steal Sophie Habboo's city wedding style? The Loretta dress from House of CB features a pretty twist corset, off the shoulder straps and a gathered midi skirt - just like the Vivienne Westwood number she was rocking but for a fraction of the price.
Oh, and if her bridal bag caught your eye, it's Sophia Webster's 'Wifey for Lifey' clutch - we're obsessed with this blue version!
- Sizing: UK 6 - UK 14
- Expert Take: The boned corset is universally flattering and will provide support without the need of a strapless bra. If the thigh split is a little too high for you, it can easily be altered.
3. Keisha Cowl Neck Short Wedding Dress - Pretty Lavish
This simple slip wedding dress from Pretty Lavish is a winner for all body types as it is universally flattering thanks to the fail-safe slip design and beautiful cowl neck. You'll wear it on your wedding day and feel fabulous and then wear it for summer seasons to come. A brilliant buy at less than £65.
- Sizing: UK 6 - UK 16
- Expert Take: Cowl necks are a flattering style for all bust sizes. The back of this short wedding dress gapes, however this can be adjusted using the shoulder straps.
4. Candice Shift Mini Wedding Dress - Rixo
Here we go with another vision of older-bride show-stopping sophistication. With Rixo's Candice, it's the combination of flowing silk crepe and delicate feathers that'll set pulses racing. The high neckline on this short wedding dress is perfectly designed and looks seriously elegant. The collar and shift style give it a 60s feel that we're obsessed with.
- Sizing: UK 6 - UK 16
- Expert Take: A popular choice with many brides, Rixo have tons of inspirational styling pictures on their website to give you ideas of how it'll look on the day. It is important to note that the ostrich feathers are real which will not appeal to all.
5. Tia Dorraine Bardot Short Wedding Dress - Wolf & Badger
Another dress that totally channels Sophie Habboo's wedding style is this off the shoulder mini from Wolf & Badger. It's romantic, contemporary and we love how the neckline gives the illusion of a pretty bow. Pop a veil on (spoiler, Sophie's one is Gigi & Olive and you'll find similar in our wedding veil edit), some cool bridal sunglasses and your look is complete.
- Sizing: XXS - XXXL
- Expert Take: If you're after a short satin wedding dress that's comfy too, you'll be pleased to know this style is partly lined and made from stretch satin so will be a comfortable fit to wear all day.
6. White Gold Button Short Blazer Dress - Pretty Little Thing
A white blazer dress keeps your short wedding look chic without going too formal if you are after a casual outfit. This gold button design is an elegant choice for a city wedding, and at £39, it's ideal if you're on a wedding budget. Swap the gold heels this model is wearing for something more traditional such as white or blue wedding shoes to keep it wedding-ready.
- Sizing: UK 4 - UK 16
- Expert Take: You can re-wear this outfit to parties post-wedding making it even more of a bargain buy. The fabric is lightweight so it is best worn to a summer wedding rather than one in the cooler months.
7. Rime Arodaky Mini Wedding Dress - Net-A-Porter
French designer Rime Arodaky is trained in intricate couturier techniques and their bridal line focuses on modern romance. This mini dress is cut from crepe and wispy tulle and adorned with 3D blooms for a playful finish.
Perfect for the modern nearlywed, this short wedding dress also looks fabulous from the back, featuring a deep open-back, so when it is time to take wedding photos you won't have to worry about your angles.
- Sizing: UK 4 - UK 16
- Expert Take: This design features a crepe underlay which is great if you would prefer to wear no bra and keep the illusion of the 3D flowers on your skin. As this is such a statement piece it limits how often it can be worn again post-wedding if you typically wear relaxed clothing.
Short Lace Wedding Dress Designs
Lace wedding dresses are classic, but you can also find designs that nod to the trends, particularly with a shorter hemline. If you're after a short lace wedding dress with sleeves, or a strapless design, you've come to the right place.
8. Mini Azalea Short Lace Wedding Dress - Self-Portrait
Self-Portrait's original Azalea dress graced red carpets and Instagram feeds when it first came out; now they've released a 'mini' version – shorter but with the same neckline and all-over laser-cut lace. We think the white would make a seriously stylish short wedding dress.
- Sizing: UK 4 - UK 14
- Expert Take: The laser-cut fabric is a contemporary upgrade from a traditional short wedding dress with lace, which modern brides will love. The straps aren't adjustable so you might want to order multiple sizes and see which one works best.
9. Madri Short Lace Wedding Dress With Sleeves - Bo & Luca
Bo and Luca have given the classic short lace wedding dress a high-fashion makeover in the form of Madri. From the plunging neckline to the lace collar, every detail speaks to contemporary sophistication. We suggest pairing it with a long wedding veil like this model has done for a cool-girl look.
- Sizing: 6AU - 16AU
- Expert Take: Looking for a short lace wedding dress with sleeves? These lace sleeves are semi-fitted so are a lot more comfortable than other body tight alternatives.
10. Olivia Short Lace Wedding Dress - Nadine Merabi
Nadine Merabi is known for their glamorous designs and Olivia is one of their best-selling styles - it has over 1,000 five star reviews. The elegant short lace dress is wedding worthy for sure as it's crafted from embroidered floral lace that is so intricate and beautiful.
You won't have to worry about pulling the dress up throughout the day as the inner padded cups and underwire will stay in place so you can relax and enjoy your moment. This dress is available in other colours and would also work as an amazing bridesmaid dress.
- Sizing: UK 6 - UK 18
- Expert Take: This dress is fully lined with duchess satin so it won't be itchy or uncomfortable. They ship worldwide and cover all duties on orders shipped to the UK, however any return fees are not covered.
11. Tiffany Blanc Short Wedding Dress - Bronx and Banco at Revolve
This Bronx and Banco dress is the contemporary way to do pretty, combining lace-edged straps, a ruffled hem and a bodycon silhouette. The boned sides give it a luxury feel and add structure to the bodice. Made by an Australian brand, it has a signature relaxed and bohemian vibe while still being appropriate for a formal event.
- Sizing: XS - XL
- Expert Take: A leg slit is a sexy feature that will show off your figure. The boning, while flattering, may start to feel uncomfortable if you are wearing the short dress the whole day.
Short Beach Wedding Dresses
After a short dress for a beach wedding? Planning to saunter down a sandy aisle and need short beach wedding dresses to help complete your vision? Fear not, there's a short beach wedding dress out there for everyone.
12. Aline Puff Sleeve Short Wedding Dress - Constellation Âme
This silk Constellation Âme mini is such a cool take on the classic bridal slip dress, with puffed, off shoulder sleeves adding a playful edge. The silhouette is pleasingly fluid, skimming rather than hugging your body. It's made from luxe ivory silk and fully lined in crepe so it'll feel wonderful against your skin, as well as looking sensational.
- Sizing: UK 6 - UK 14
- Expert Take: The puff sleeves are removable so you can switch up your look throughout the day, or wear the slip dress alone post-wedding. As the dress is made-to-order in London, make sure you place your order with plenty of time.
13. Mini Pandora Bridal Dress - Galvan London
This minimalist masterpiece is perfect for a simple but ultra-stylish wedding look. It's a shorter version of the bestselling full-length Pandora gown from Galvan so if you love that design, you'll adore this one too. You can always amp up the effect through your wedding accessories – or just let the dress's simplicity do the talking. See even more halter neck wedding dresses here.
- Sizing: FR 34 - FR 44
- Expert Take: This short wedding dress is made from a natural material based on wood pulp so it is better for the environment. It's quite pricey for a simple design, but the quality is exceptional.
14. Natasha Mini Beach Wedding Dress - Mytheresa
Loveshackfancy is the name to know for luxe boho wedding dresses like the Natasha minidress. Fashion forward brides will instantly recognise their trendy designs and so will stylish wedding guests. It's made from pure cotton, which is more comfortable to wear in high temperatures than man-made fabrics. It really is the perfect short wedding dress for a beach do.
- Sizing: XXS - XL+
- Expert Take: The tiered mini skirt is a leg-lengthening design which is great if you are wearing beach-ready flat wedding shoes but still want the illusion of legs for days. Cotton gives the dress a casual feel which might not be ideal for everyone but it can be dressed up with accessories.
15. Carla Lace Bridal Midi Dress - Monsoon
Add some spark to your short lace wedding dress by opting for a choppy hemline like on the Carla dress from Monsoon. Designed with lace embroidery, the silhouette is floaty and will look lovely with satin white heels. If you want a short wedding dress that isn't too short - this one's for you.
- Sizing: UK 6 - UK 18
- Expert Take: It features gorgeous extra details which make this dress special, such as a dainty string tie back. If you want to wear flat wedding shoes, you might not achieve the short length you desire.
16. Coppée Vintage Short Wedding Dress - Laure de Sagazan
This trapeze dress is giving us vintage 70s vibes thanks to that flowing silhouette and the covered buttons. This short wedding dress is perfect for a beach wedding and is finished with intricate lace at the shoulders for an extra shot of luxury. Short beach wedding dresses don't need to be boho to be beach-worthy, as this cool and chic design proves.
- Sizing: FR 34 - FR 44
- Expert Take: The three quarter length sleeves are ideal if you like the look of longer sleeves but want something that'll keep you cool. Each piece is made on order, so allow ample time for delivery.
Short Vintage Wedding Dresses
We've picked our favourite vintage-inspired wedding dresses at a shorter length, from 1920s glamour to cool 60s and 70s style and trust us when we say short vintage wedding dresses are having a comeback right now!
17. Mademoiselle Bridal Mini Dress - Revolve
If a princess wedding dress is what you're after, Revolve have made all your wishes come true with this glittery tea length wedding dress. We love the vintage silhouette paired with the modern sequins.
The sequin, pearl and bead-embellished mesh fabric is so unique and will shimmer and shine as you walk down the aisle. Lots of reviewers say they've chosen this short wedding dress as a wedding reception dress, with one saying they 'feel like a princess in it'.
- Sizing: XS - XL
- Expert Take: The sparkly fabric is a dream, and it comes in at cheaper than the average wedding dress so you're getting a lot for your money. Some reviewers flag that it is quite fragile, so be gentle with it.
18. Gatsby Mini Vintage Wedding Dress £4,860, Naeem Khan at Net-A-Porter
For a sexy take on a 1920s party look, it has to be this sequined mini dress. It's a riot of beaded and sequined fringing, and features a deep v-neckline and a mid-thigh hem. You'll sparkle on the dance floor with this beauty on and will stand out from the crowd - just what you want on your big day.
- Sizing: UK 6 - UK 16
- Expert Take: The beaded fringing has been cleverly placed to flatter your figure. At just under £5,000 this piece is expensive, but with the level of embellishments and quality of the fabric you won't find a dress as sensational for less.
19. Strappy White Satin Slip Dress - Motel Rocks
Is it too early to count 90s fashion as 'vintage'? We'll let you decide – but given that the era remains a huge influence on today's looks, we just had to include this cool slip as an option for an on-trend wedding dress. The cowl neck is total pre-Y2K chic.
- Sizing: XXS - XL
- Expert Take: It'll double up as a lovely honeymoon outfit if you are planning on heading to a sunny destination. The material on this short satin wedding dress may crease, but a steamer will sort that in no time.
20. Enid Short Vintage Wedding Dress - House of Mooshki
If you’ve been dreaming of a colourful wedding dress but you don’t want anything too bold, an ultra-light pink is a lovely choice.
This cute and fun vintage-style wedding dress from House of Mooshki can be paired with a petticoat for extra volume and twirl appeal. The short off the shoulder draped sleeves are a design that you don't see very often making it ideal for those after a unique short wedding dress that has a super vintage feel.
- Sizing: Made to Order
- Expert Take: All House of Mooshki wedding dresses can be customised to suit the individual, whether that means adding sleeves or altering the size, so it will fit you like a glove. This does mean you will have to contact the design team to arrange a personal consolation, which may not be best for those with a time crunch.
21. Lottie Lace Midi Dress - Needle & Thread
Full of delicious vintage details, this lace Needle & Thread gown is easy to fall in love with. We're particularly taken with the delicate embroidery on the sleeves and the tiered skirt.
The perfect short vintage wedding dress to take you from day to night, it's a great pick for those who want something laid back but still very feminine and would work with both cool boots and stylish designer wedding shoes.
- Sizing: UK 4 - UK 22
- Expert Take: You can choose between a short or midi length, which gives you much more versatility. The fabric is very delicate, which is ideal for those who love that look but you might want to be cautious of snags if you have a whopper of a diamond ring!
22. Dolly Vintage Wedding Dress - House of Mooshki
For more retro bridal glamour, check out this vintage wedding dress by House of Mooshki. From the cap sleeves to the circle skirt, it's pure 1950s elegance. Fans of Audrey Hepburn, this dress is calling your name! The pretty satin pink belt adds a pop of colour without being too much.
- Sizing: Made to Order
- Expert Take: All House of Mooshki gowns come with our customised inner 24 boned bodice to enhance shape. House of Mooshki gowns can only be purchased in store.
Long Back Short Front Wedding Dress Designs
Dramatic hems aren't just for long gowns - let our edit of wedding dresses that are short in the front and long in the back blow you away.
23. Bustier High-Low Wedding Gown - Revolve
How sensational is this bustier wedding dress with a train from Revolve? It's a look that contemporary and confident brides will love - all that you need to complete the look is a killer pair of designer wedding shoes. It's by fashion brand Love & Lemons who are often worn by celebs, and we can see why. This long back short front wedding dress is a total knockout.
- Sizing: XS - XL
- Expert Take: The bustier bodice gives it a sexy edge, balanced out by the whimsical tulle train. You'll have to ensure it is the perfect fit to avoid it slipping down during the day.
24. Maebh Short Front Long Back Wedding Dress - Pronovias
If you're looking for a show-stopping wedding dress with short front and long back, you can stop looking now. The Pronovias Maebh design features a high neckline and short lace sleeves, creating a notice-me silhouette. The removable overskirt adds extra volume and is a cool twist on the traditional wedding dress train.
- Sizing: UK 2 - UK 34
- Expert Take: The transparent overskirt doesn't take away from the top half of the dress. Alterations are not included in the price of the dress so be mindful of your budget.
25. Piera Short Front Wedding Dress - Vagabond Bridal
This sleek cocktail-style dress is one of our favourite short satin wedding dress designs of all time. The detachable overskirt means you can have a train for the ceremony then whip it off to avoid getting tangled up on the dance floor. See more reception wedding dresses for those who want to switch up their look mid-day.
- Sizing: UK 6 - UK 20
- Expert Take: It is made from eco-silk which is better for the environment. Part of their 2021 collection, take a look at Vagabond's latest bridal collection for a more up-to-date design.
26. Volant Flower High Low Wedding Dress - Viktor & Rolf Mariage
Trust Viktor & Rolf to come up with a short and unique wedding dress that has all the drama of a full-length design. We love the way that ruffled skirt flows out into a frothy train and it reminds us of Lucy Watson's fabulous wedding dress so it definitely has the celebrity stamp of approval.
- Sizing: XS - L
- Expert Take: It is made up from handcrafted organza flowers which are truly sensational. You are looking at spending a minimum of £3,000 for a Viktor & Rolf wedding dress but it'll be worth every penny for the piece you'll receive.
27. Look 5 Short Front Long Back Wedding Dress - Oscar de la Renta
We expect nothing less than wedding heaven from iconic design house Oscar de la Renta, and the collection doesn't disappoint. Look 5 is a reimagining of the classic ball gown wedding dress, with a shorter hemline at the front that allows the rest of the skirt to billow out behind you.
- Sizing: UK 4 - UK 20
- Expert Take: Oscar de la Renta wedding dresses are iconic so you'll feel on cloud nine all day wearing this beauty. Those seeking short designer wedding dresses won't find quality quite like this elsewhere!
Plus Size Short Wedding Dress Designs
You're going to love these plus size short wedding dress designs, ranging from gorgeous short lace wedding dress styles to elegant frilly ones.
28. 3D Lace Plus Size Wedding Dress - Simply Be
We love the style of lace on this dress from Simply Be - it is really unique and a brilliant buy at just £160. The scalloped hem and cap sleeves are a classic wedding dress look that will suit all kinds of brides. The short dress comes fully lined and fastens on the back with a zip.
- Sizing: UK 10 - UK 32
- Expert Take: Simply Be allow you to split the price of your wedding dress over six payments which will free up money to use on other wedding essentials. The fabric doesn't provide much movement so we suggest sizing up.
29. Anais Sequin Short Plus Wedding Dress - Needle & Thread
One for the bride who loves sparkle, Needle & Thread's Anais is liberally embroidered with iridescent sequins. The tulle fabric and flutter sleeves keep the overall effect light and pretty, rather than disco so it's ideal if you want glitter without going overboard. It also comes in ballerina and full length.
- Sizing: UK 4 - UK 22
- Expert Take: The hand-drawn lace is exceptional and so special to wear on your wedding day. Some reviews state that if you are petite you might want to consider alterations as the skirt and sleeves run long.
30. Jacquard Plus size Short Bridal Dress - Simply Be
Simply Be's wedding range is spectacular and that's not only because it includes inclusive sizing. We love the unique designs such as this jacquard dress which features a flattering drop hem and luxe satin fabric. The dress is designed so that it can take you from day to night without having to switch up your look.
- Sizing: UK 10 - UK 26
- Expert Take: Jacquard prints are right on trend, making it a stylish choice. This fabric can look casual so if that's not the look you are after, pair the dress with sparkling accessories for extra glitz.
31. Embellished Midi Bridal Dress - Simply Be
Another beautiful Simply Be short wedding dress is this long sleeved beauty. It has just the right amount of embellishments to make it special without going overboard if that's not your thing. For £170 you can't go wrong with a vintage silhouette as beautiful as this one.
- Sizing: UK 10 - UK 32
- Expert Take: The inclusive sizing means it'll work for all body types. As the design doesn't come in at the waist, you may want to add a belt to avoid the style swamping your shape.
Short Casual Wedding Dresses
A short casual wedding dress works beautifully at an informal wedding day. Look out for easy-wearing silhouettes and flowing fabrics for your relaxed bridal look.
32. Ravel Casual Wedding Dress - Laure de Sagazan
This Laure de Sagazan dress manages to be both of the moment and utterly timeless. The textured silk jacquard fabric gives it a couture feel and adds interest to the otherwise simple design. It has chic Parisian style written all over it, from the round neckline and wide cuffed sleeves, to the mother of pearl back button detailing.
- Sizing: FR 34 - FR 44
- Expert Take: Each piece is unique so no-one will have one exactly the same. This dress will need to be shipped so delivery will cost a little more but it's well worth it for your wedding day when you are getting a piece made-to-order from Paris.
33. Elyse Tiered Wedding Short Casual Dress - Phase Eight
Off the shoulder wedding dress styles are everywhere this year and short dresses like Phase Eight's Evette make it easy to see why. The belt is a beautiful finishing touch, as is the sweetheart neckline. The large lace is undeniably classic but it has been given a contemporary edge with puff sleeves.
- Sizing: UK 6 - UK 18
- Expert Take: The adjustable belt will cinch you in at the waist and emphasise curves. Although cheaper than most wedding dresses, it's on the higher end in terms of price for a high street buy.
34. Emilia Wickstead Mini Wedding Dress - Net-A-Porter
Emilia Wickstead designs have been spotted on the likes of Kate Middleton so you'll look like and feel like royalty in this gorgeous mini dress.
Part of the label's bridal capsule, the devil is in the detail with these simple short wedding dresses, the pintuck seams will flatter your figure and the sleek sweetheart neckline sits beautifully.
- Sizing: UK 6 - UK 16
- Expert Take: The minimalistic design on this short wedding dress means you can really make this look your own with accessories. As it is made from non-stretchy fabric, you may want to size-up to allow for some movement.
35. Rime Arodaky Short Casual Wedding Dress - Net-A-Porter
Another beautiful blazer dress comes in the form of this Rime Arodaky beauty, which is from their bridalwear collection. The perfect combination of a relaxed short wedding dress and a structured blazer, the lace trim ensures it is wedding-ready. It even has a surprise lace back! Pair with metallic silver accessories, such as a sparkly bridal clutch bag.
- Sizing: FR 34 - FR 42
- Expert Take: The waist tie will cinch you in and create the most beautiful silhouette. More of a dress than a blazer, if you are after a tailored look we suggest going for a more formal design than this loose-fitting look.
Can I Wear a Short Wedding Dress?
Short wedding dresses are just as wedding-appropriate as floor length gowns and there are so many options to choose from. From vintage-style beaded beauties and trendy puff sleeve styles to sophisticated blazer dresses and traditional lace numbers, you'll find a short wedding dress to suit your taste and budget.
Better yet, the higher hemline makes them a versatile choice that can be worn as part of your wardrobe long after the wedding day.
Remember, wearing a short dress means your shoes will definitely be seen – choose an extra-special pair from our edit of the best blue wedding shoes
