34 Short Wedding Dresses for Your Ceremony, Second Look and Beyond!

Flaunt those legs!

by Sophie Moore
Updated 01/24/20

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Man and woman holding hands

Photo by Benjamin Wheeler

Calling all fashion-forward brides! It's 2020 and anything goes when it comes to bridal fashion, so we're not surprised that short wedding dresses are giving long gowns a serious run for their money. From structured and modern to diaphanous and bohemian, we've scoured the internet to bring you the coolest mini dresses out there.

Whether you're tying the knot on the beach, at the courthouse or in your backyard, there's a short dress out there that matches both your venue and your bridal style. We even love these shorties for an unexpected second look or for pre-wedding events. Plus, the cropped length makes them a versatile part of your wardrobe, meaning, you definitely won't wear this dress just once!

Ready to show off some serious leg? Below, we've curated the best short wedding dresses to complement every bridal style, body shape, and budget.

01
of 34

Carolina Herrera Gathered Silk-Poplin Mini

short dress

Courtesy of Moda Operandi 

If you want all the glamour and sophistication of a classic gown, but with an unexpected twist, consider this silk mini. It has all the elements of a ballgown, minus the obstructive length.

02
of 34

For Love & Lemons One Shoulder Lace Dress

short dress

Courtesy of Revolve

Daring brides, you can stop your dress search right here. What is bolder than a sheer mini with a slightly asymmetrical hem and a one-shouldered sleeve?

03
of 34

Haney Sequin Cut-Out Mini Dress

short dress

 Courtesy of Intermix

This not your standard sheath dress! The sequin-embroidered waist cut-outs add a touch of sexiness, without compromising sophistication.

04
of 34

WAYF Puff Sleeves Lace Dress

short dress

 Courtesy of Shopbop

Something about this dress screams early-spring wedding and we are here for it. With ruffle trim and allover lace, this is definitely the perfect pick for more conservative brides, but don't worry, the puffed sleeves are full-on fashion.

05
of 34

Zimmermann Butterfly Flutter Sleeve Mini Dress

short dress

Courtesy of Nordstrom

Thanks to the Bridal Fashion Week runways, 2020 is all about one thing: Butterfly details. We saw it in floral prints and bright embellishments, but this dress is currently our favorite take on the trend.

06
of 34

Danielle Frankel Blazer Wedding Dress

short dress

Courtesy of Moda Operandi

Opting for an intimate courthouse affair? Nothing pairs better than a fitted blazer dress and a civil ceremony. Plus, the designer was the mastermind behind Zoë Kravitz and Erin Foster's wedding day looks, just to name a few.

07
of 34

Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini Tule Polka Dot Dress

short dress

Courtesy of Farfetch

While we love this three-tiered dress for a trip to the altar, it also has bridal shower written all over it. Between the polka dots, tulle and illusion sleeves, this gown is ultra-girly and fashion-forward.

08
of 34

Zimmermann Linen Dot Fitted Bodice Mini

short dress

 Courtesy of Zimmermann

Planning to wed barefoot in the sand then celebrate with drinks and dancing on the beach? Then buy this dress. It's boho-meets-party-girl, which might be our favorite new crossover.

09
of 34

Reem Acra Draped Silk Metallic Blend Dress

short dress

Courtesy of Net-A-Porter 

News flash: Dramatic trains work with short dresses too! Wear the detachable draped panel down the aisle then remove it when it comes time to hit the dancefloor. Technically, you're getting two gorgeous looks for the price of one (score!).

10
of 34

Lela Rose Plus Size Lace Hem Knit Dress

short dress

 Courtesy of 11 Honore

This bright and sunshine-y knit dress is flocked with tiny yellow fabric embellishments. Wear this cheery citrus number to your summer or destination wedding.

11
of 34

Rotate Puff Sleeves Ruched Dress

short dress

 Courtesy of Shopbop

Off-the-shoulder neckline, puffed sleeves, ruched bodice—what trend doesn't this dress show off? With such a relaxed fit, it's perfect for the cool-girl, no-fuss bride.

12
of 34

Rasario Asymmetric Lace-Paneled Midi Dress

short dress

Courtesy of Net-A-Porter

Thanks to the alternating crepe and lace panels, this dress gives the illusion of length. Finish with a box clutch and heels for a completely elevated look.

13
of 34

Elliatt Pearl Embroidered Mini Dress

short dress

Courtesy of BHLDN

We think it's time to bring flapper dresses back (but with a twenty-first-century twist), and this strappy mini dress is the ultimate comeback. With all-over embroidery and pearl details, this is the look for fun and flirty brides.

14
of 34

Rime Arodaky Embroidered Tulle and Crepe Midi Dress

short dress

Courtesy of Net-A-Porter

From French bridal designer Rime Arodaky, it's no surprise this midi dress is both romantic and chic. The illusion bodice is daring, yet tasteful—what modern bride doesn't strive for that?

15
of 34

The Attico Strapless Ostrich-Feather Strapless Mini

short dress

Courtesy of Matches Fashion

Another fashion week detail we couldn't get enough of? Feathers. And this mini dress takes that trend to the next level. Besides, a solid party dress will never go to waste.

16
of 34

Johanna Ortiz Square-Neck Crinkled-Crepe Dress

short dress

Courtesy of Matches Fashion

Peplum tops have been popular for years but this asymmetrical bib is a fresh take on the silhouette. Plus, the square-neckline works with any size bust.

17
of 34

Alexis High-Neck Lace Short Dress

short dress

Courtesy of Neiman Marcus 

There's nothing boring about this high-neck dress. With lace and embroidery details and a bow, throw your hair up in a bun and let the gown speak for itself.

18
of 34

ASOS Design Ruffle A-Line Mini Dress

short dress
Courtesy of ASOS

If you're more comfortable in a simple silhouette, choose a dress with just one dramatic element. The cross-body ruffle is all you need to make a statement.

19
of 34

Acler One-Shoulder Crepe Mini

short dress

Courtesy of Moda Operandi

Consider this the "Little Black Dress" of bridal—because it comes in white, of course! It's crisp, simple and it looks like you just threw it on (and still look flawless).

20
of 34

Boohoo Mesh High Neck Dress

short dress

 Courtesy of Boohoo

A basic white slip is completely transformed with a polka dot mesh overlay. Wear with heels for the ceremony then switch into a pair of kicks when the DJ starts playing!

21
of 34

Needle & Thread Floral Embroidered Dress

short dress

Courtesy of Needle & Thread

Fun fact: This is our pick for a warm-weather winter wedding. Why? The sequins, beading and tulle and frill trims were inspired by sparkling snowflakes.

22
of 34

Theia "Love" Embroidered Shift Dress

short dress

Courtesy of BHLDN

Engagement party, rehearsal dinner, ceremony, post-wedding brunch—this dress works for literally every wedding-related occasion. This dress and weddings have something in common: They're both all about love!

23
of 34

Marchesa Notte Gold Embroidered Flared Midi Dress

short dress

Courtesy of Farfetch

Attention, brides! Don't be afraid to rock some color on your wedding day. The gold embroidery on this flared skirt is really all you need.

24
of 34

Self-Portrait Chiffon Lace-Trimmed Dress

short dress

 Courtesy of Intermix

Another hot trend for 2020 brides? Corset bodices. Thanks to the pleated chiffon and lace trim, this blush midi gives the sultry bustier a feminine finish.

25
of 34

Sunday in Brooklyn Embroidered Shift Dress

short dress

Courtesy of BHLDN

Shift dresses are getting a major upgrade with this embroidered number. We suggest throwing this in your honeymoon carry-on last minute with a pair of sandals for a casual dinner outfit with your new spouse!

26
of 34

White by Vera Wang Sequin Plus Size Mini Dress

short dress

Courtesy of David's Bridal

For the bride that craves a little sparkle, this mini dress is completed by a crystal belt, which creates shape and definition at the waist.

27
of 34

Tadashi Shoji Long Sleeve Lace Dress

short dress

Courtesy of Nordstrom

We can't decide what we like more about this dress: The geometric lace or the flared hemline. Garden party attire? Check!

28
of 34

Reformation Linen Sweetheart Neckline Dress

short dress

Courtesy of Reformation

If minimalism is more your speed, then you can't go wrong with a simple spaghetti strap midi. Thigh-high slits took over the bridal runways this year, too!

29
of 34

City Chic High Neck Lace Dress

short dress

 Courtesy of Nordstrom

Meghan Markle put halter necks back on the map in 2018, so here's a version for lace lovers. And, this neckline works wonders for broad shoulders.

30
of 34

Katie May Cape Dress

short dress

Courtesy of Intermix

This cape dress marries business and bridal is the chicest way. Perfect for the modern bride, the deep V is sexy while the cape sleeves are totally sleek.

31
of 34

REDValentino Blush Floral Beaded Tulle Dress

short dress

 Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

Embody "blushing bride" on your wedding day with this nude tulle number. Delicately beaded in a floral design, you'll feel enchanted walking down the aisle.

32
of 34

Fame & Partners Boxy Blazer and Shorts

blazer

Courtesy of Fame & Partners

Yes, bridal shorts exist—aren't you excited? Pair them with the blazer for your wedding day then wear them with other tops all summer long.

33
of 34

Jason Wu Collection Strapless Embellished Tulle Blush Dress

short dress

Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

Channel your inner-ballerina with a strapless tulle gown accented with sequins. Who knows, maybe it will actually bring out your inner-ballerina during your first dance!

34
of 34

Hellessy Short Dress with Train

short dress

Courtesy of Shopbop

Thanks to the train, you technically don't need to choose between a long and short gown with this pick. It's party in the front and bridal in the back!

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