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29 Mini Wedding Dresses to Show Off Those Stems

Skip the ballgown for one of these party-ready frocks

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mini wedding dresses UNI
Dasha Burobina

As a bride who’s currently planning a summer wedding, I have to admit the idea of wearing a full-length ballgown or heavy embellished sheath sounds less dreamy when I begin to factor in what an NYC summer typically feels like (i.e., incredibly hot and humid). Turns out, I am not the only bride-to-be considering showing off my legs and getting some much-needed breathing room in a mini wedding dress.

According to the experts at Karen Millen, searches for “mini wedding dress” and “mini bridal dress” have recently gone up 229 and 423 percent respectively, a ten-year high worldwide. The reason for the sudden uptick? Partial credit likely belongs to Sofia Richie and Kourtney Kardashian, both of whom opted for mini dresses for their recent high-profile nuptials. But they’re not the only celebs who’ve gone short—Lily Allen, Kiera Knightley, Audrey Hepburn, Raquel Welch, Whitney Port and Cindy Crawford all sported knee-baring minis for their ceremonies. Convinced yet? Read on for PureWow’s picks for the best mini wedding dresses for your stylish celebration.

The Top 5 Mini Wedding Dresses at a Glance

What Shoes Should I Wear with a Mini Wedding Dress?

Usually we’d recommend pairing flats with shorter hems to help keep your proportions in check. And you can absolute rock a chic bridal ballet flat if that’s your style. But for those who’d prefer to add some height, there are some heel styles we recommend over others. Pointed toes will help lengthen your legs, no matter the heel height, whereas thick ankle straps often cut off your leg in an awkward spot. If you do want a strap for added support, opt for something thin or try a heel with lots of straps or details (like bow adornments or draped chains) to add interest. When push comes to shove, the best wedding shoes are those that are comfortable and make you feel confident, so be sure to take yours for a test run before the big day.

What Kind of Veil Looks Best with a Mini Wedding Dress?

Did you know there are 11 different types of wedding veils? Yeah, that’s a lot of options. Truth be told, an extra-long veil, like a chapel or cathedral length, paired with a shorter hemline can look oddly disproportionate. If you want something that feels a bit more traditional, try an elbow length style. They were quite popular in the ‘60s, so if you’re also hoping to rock a Mod mini this is definitely a match made in heaven. Another option that nods to tradition is a chin- or shoulder-length blusher veil. But perhaps our favorite style to wear with a mini wedding dress is a birdcage veil. These structured net beauties were first popular in the ‘40s, and yet when worn with a sexy mini take on an edgier, more fashion-forward vibe.

How We Chose the Best Mini Wedding Dresses

The dresses on this list are all from retailers or brands PureWow editors have personally shopped and feel comfortable vouching for. As for the specific styles, those are a combination of fashion editor picks and best sellers, all of which have been vetted by reading through as many reviews as we could find.

22 Comfortable Wedding Shoes That You Won’t Have to Kick Off Mid-Reception


Elongating Silhouette

1.     Sachin & Babi Dorien One-Shoulder Dress with Train

Sachin & Babi

  • Size Range: US 0 to 16
  • Material: 100 percent polyester
  • Pros: can be worn with a strapless bra, silhouette elongates your frame
  • Cons: reviews suggest it runs small

The one-shoulder silhouette and accompanying train on the opposite hip combine to lengthen your figure in much the same way that a more traditional gown might, making this a gorgeous option for petites looking to add the illusion of height. Some reviewers under 5’3” mentioned having the train hemmed, but others say the length looks beautiful and is easy to pin up as you might a bustle for a reception or after party. Per one reviewer, “This cutie was perfect for my Vegas elopement! The material is beautiful and slightly textured. Color is definitely an off-white, almost ivory, and not a true white. The side train definitely makes a statement!”

Boho Lace

2. John Zack Lace Mini Dress

John Zack

  • Size Range: US 14 to 24
  • Material: 100 percent polyester
  • Pros: under $150, adjustable tie in back
  • Cons: not bra friendly

Ideal for a garden reception, this lace mini is right out of our boho bridal dreams. The material is lightweight and breathable, and there is an adjustable tie at the waist to help cinch your middle or to tie in a decorative bow for an extra sweet detail. The deep V neckline is not bra-friendly, but boob tape can help secure your bosom in place so you can focus on what’s really important—breaking it down on the dance floor with your loved ones.

Elegant Halter

3. Galvan Pandora Halter Dress

Galvan

  • Size Range: FR 34 to 44
  • Material: 100 percent polyester
  • Pros: can be worn with a strapless bra, very flattering silhouette
  • Cons: material has little to no stretch

The asymmetrical neckline is what originally drew us to this satin mini, but it was the elegant sash as the back of the neck that truly sealed the deal. Ideal for the bride whose Pinterest board is full of minimalist ‘90s styles, this Galvan dress has just enough detail to take it from plain to effortlessly chic. Unfortunately, there are no reviews as of publishing, but the brand notes the material has very little, if any, stretch to it, so if you are between sizes you may want to opt for the larger.

Peek-a-Boo Tulle

4.  BCBG Max Azria Strapless Dress

BCBG Max Azria

  • Size Range: US 0 to 14
  • Material: 95 percent polyester, 5 percent spandex
  • Pros: can be worn with a strapless bra, slightly longer hemline
  • Cons: reviews suggest it runs small

Yes, the fit-and-flare silhouette is a major draw, but it’s the polka-dot tulle peeking out the bottom that really makes our hearts sing. The simplicity of this dress allows you to really play with accessories—a beaded belt, drop earrings, glitzy bangles—or you can lean into the minimalism with some simple sling-back heels and a neat bun. Reviews suggest this dress runs small, so be sure to double check the size chart before you add to cart, and consider sizing up if you’re between sizes.

Subtle Polka Dots

5. Watters Macaron Tulle Mini Dress

Watters

  • Size Range: US 0 to 16
  • Material: 100 percent nylon tulle
  • Pros: can be worn with a strapless bra, sleeves can be worn up or down
  • Cons: reviews suggest it runs small

We’ve gotta say, Watters nailed it naming this elegantly sweet frock Macaron. It has a definite French-girl vibe that’s both supremely chic and whimsy. We adore the subtle polka-dot pattern, amplified by the addition of tiny pearls and sequins throughout. And the puffed sleeves can be worn up for a square neckline or pulled down for an off-the-shoulder silhouette. According to reviews, this dress does run a tad small and has little to no stretch, so keep that in mind when choosing your size. “I would say it runs true to size, but if you're larger than a B or C cup it'll probably be too tight around the chest area,” writes one reviewer. “It has a built-in corset-like top with padding.”

Suit Inspired

6. Liv Foster Tuxedo Crepe Mini Dress

Liv Foster

  • Size Range: US 0 to 16
  • Material: 90 percent polyester, 10 percent elastane
  • Pros: bra-friendly, fabric won’t easily wrinkle
  • Cons: no reviews available

For the bride who wants something tailored but doesn’t love the idea of wearing an actual suit, this tuxedo-inspired mini is a gorgeous compromise. The single-button closure helps bring the eye in to cinch your waist without needing a belt, and the V neckline shows just enough skin to feel subtly sexy without exposing too much cleavage. Plus, the brand suggests that the thick crepe material is wrinkle-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about having to sit or stand just so to avoid looking rumpled.

Minimalist Satin

7. Reformation Zenni Dress

Reformation

  • Size Range: US 14 to 24, also0 to 12
  • Material: not listed
  • Pros: bra friendly, minimalist silhouette
  • Cons: materials not listed

This chic little mini is giving us major ‘90s vibes, which you can play up with some square-toe sandals and a swept-back up-do. Of course, such a minimalist frock can also act as the perfect backdrop for a sparkly belt or bedazzled shrug if you want to zhuzh things up. A note on sizing: Reformation sometimes runs a bit small, so if you’re unsure of your best size you may want to go up one from your usual.

Double the Feathers

8.  Sau Lee Jayde Dress

Sau Lee

  • Size Range: US 00 to 14
  • Material: 100 percent viscose blend with feather trim
  • Pros: can be worn with a strapless bra, bodice comes with built-in boning
  • Cons: reviews suggest it runs small

Why choose between a feather hem and feather neckline when you can have both? These festive trims sandwich a gorgeous jacquard middle with a subtle floral pattern. Most reviewers suggest this stunner runs on the small side, so you may want to consider sizing up. “Absolutely gorgeous dress,” writes one shopper. “The material is really great quality, and the details are perfect. I am 5'11” and was worried about it being too short. It is a little on the short side, but very flattering and would work for many heights, I think.”

Kourtney Kardashian Vibes

9. Rasario Fringe Lace Mini Dress

Rasario

  • Size Range: FR 34 to 46
  • Material: 45 percent cotton, 30 percent viscose, 25 percent nylon
  • Pros: the brand suggests it runs true to size, can be worn with a strapless bra
  • Cons: straps are not adjustable

If you loved Kourtney Kardashian’s Italian mini wedding dress but don’t want to sport actual lingerie down the aisle, this lace beauty is a fabulous option to consider. The bodice is slightly sheer, just enough to show off the boning construction, but the skirt is fully lined. We suggest investing in a nude, lace strapless bra to give your gals some extra coverage up top.

Dramatic Puff Sleeves

10.  Ronny Kobo Calin Mini Dress

Ronny Kobo

  • Size Range: US 0 to 16
  • Material: 100 percentpolyester/viscose blend
  • Pros: open back, flattering silhouette
  • Cons: not bra friendly

This textured stunner may look like two pieces but is actually one gorgeous frock. The material is lightweight, so you can fluff up those sleeves as much as you like, and fully opaque—which is excellent news considering the plunging front and open back are not bra friendly. We say lean into the ‘80s vibes of this super-flattering silhouette and opt for vintage earrings and a slicked back up-do to complete your bridal look.

Sheer Maxi

11. The Bar Cleo Gown

The Bar

  • Size Range: US 00 to 12
  • Material: 100 percent nylon
  • Pros: can be worn with a strapless bra, made in the U.S.
  • Cons: fabric wrinkles easily

For the bride who wants the look and feel of a more traditional gown, but still wants to show off her legs, this gorgeous tulle gown is a fabulous middle ground option. The top features a boned bodice, draped with tulle that continues well beyond the hem to graze the floor. There’s also a slit on one side to make walking a breeze. Reviews suggest this dress runs true to size, but the material also wrinkles easily, so be prepared with a steamer the morning of your wedding.

Off-White Ruffles

12.   Mac Duggal Daphne Tulle Mini Dress

Mac Duggal

  • Size Range: US 0 to 12
  • Material: 100 percent polyester tulle
  • Pros: can be worn with a strapless bra, flattering off-white hue
  • Cons: no reviews available

This feather-adorned mini is incredibly fun and basically begging to be worn for an all-night dance party. It is a creamy, off-white hue, but that softer shade actually looks fabulous on a wider range of skin tones than bright white. We also love the cinched in waist to help you maintain your figure within all those tulle ruffles.

Long-Sleeve Lace

13. Eloquii Floral Mini Dress

Eloquii

  • Size Range: US 14 to 28
  • Material: 100 percent polyester
  • Pros: can be worn with a strapless bra, reviews suggest it runs true to size
  • Cons: material has little to no stretch

The intricate cutwork on this long-sleeve mini is not your typical romantic lace. Instead, it has more of a high-fashion edge we just can’t get enough of. Reviews suggest it runs fairly true to size, but note that the material has very little stretch, so if you are between sizes you may prefer to go up one. “A beautiful and well-made dress,” writes one bride. “The material is so expensive looking, the fit was perfect and there was so much attention to little details like the sticky elastic on the inside of the neckline to help secure the top.”

Draped Back

14. Sachin & Babi Cameron Mini Dress

Sachin & Babi

  • Size Range: US 0 to 14
  • Material: 100 percent polyester
  • Pros: bra-friendly, under $500
  • Cons: no reviews available

Yes, this long-sleeve mini looks wonderfully elegant from the front, but it’s the draped low back that really made us fall in love. And don’t worry, it’s not so low that you can’t still wear a regular bra. There’s also a sweet peek-a-boo moment repeating the lace trim from the hem. The material does have some stretch, so we suggest opting for your usual size.

Draped Bodycon

15. Norma Kamali Diana Mini Dress

Norma Kamali

  • Size Range: XXS to XL
  • Material: 95 percent polyester, 5 percent spandex
  • Pros: can be worn with a strapless bra, fits true to size, has a built-in bodysuit
  • Cons: skirt is a bit sheer

This ruched one-shoulder mini is giving us major Grecian goddess vibes. The material is incredibly stretchy, and the draping effect is incredibly flattering on the body. There’s also a built-in bodysuit to help smooth your figure. One PureWow editor, who owns this dress in a different color, says, “It’s so incredibly comfortable and wow is it flattering, even after you’d been indulging on passed apps and Champagne all night.” Just note, the material is not fully opaque, and may appear sheer along the skirt.

Removable Train

16.  Reformation Liliwen Dress

Reformation

  • Size Range: 0 to 12
  • Material: 100 percentpolyester
  • Pros: comes with a removable train, can be worn with a strapless bra
  • Cons: no reviews available

Just because you’re opting for a short dress for your ceremony doesn’t mean you can’t also have an outfit change for the reception. This strapless mini makes it easy with the inclusion of a removable train that ties at the waist. There is also a smocked panel at the back of the bust to better accommodate variations in cup size. Oh, and did we mention it has pockets so you can stow your vows or extra tissues with ease?

Crystal and Pearl Embellishments

14. Retrofête Heather Mini Dress

Retrofete

  • Size Range: XXS to XXL
  • Material: 100 percent polyester with crystal and faux-pearl embellishments
  • Pros: can be worn with a strapless bra, required very little jewelry
  • Cons: material can feel heavy

Retrofête has been a cult-favorite brand to pick up party-ready frocks for some time now, but while plenty of brides have opted for its signature Gabrielle sequined wrap dress, we’re partial to this crystal-and-pearl strapless mini for a sparkly twist instead. We will admit, all that embellishment can feel heavy, so be sure the fit up top is snug enough that you feel secure. Otherwise, get ready to party—with all that stunning detailing, plus your bridal glow, you’re sure to shine like a disco ball no matter what you have planned for the evening.

Elevated Slip Dress

18. DB Studio 3D Lace Crepe Mini Dress

DB Studio

  • Size Range: US 0 to 26
  • Material: 100 percent polyester
  • Pros: under $150, adjustable straps, can be worn with a strapless bra
  • Cons: no reviews available

Simple but not too simple—that’s the vibe of this chic minidress. The delicate floral embellishments on the neckline and hip, combined with the elegantly draped fabric, makes this frock a real stunner. The straps are adjustable and the material does have some stretch to it for extra comfort.

Jacquard and Tulle

19.  Elliatt April Dress

Elliat

  • Size Range: XXS to XXL
  • Material: 100 percent polyester
  • Pros: subtle pink detailing, can be worn with a strapless bra
  • Cons: available for preorder

Between the mix of textures and colors, there’s a lot of love with this one-shoulder mini. The fabric has a jacquard look made up of pearl and pale pink swatches, and the tulle bow on the shoulder adds such an airy touch. We will note, the material has very little stretch, so if you’re between sizes you may be more comfortable ordering the larger.

Removable Sleeves

20.  Eloquii Mini Dress with Puff-Sleeve Cape

Eloquii

  • Size Range: US 14 to 28
  • Material: 100 percent polyester
  • Pros: sleeves are removable, can be worn with a strapless bra, has pockets
  • Cons: made to order and so requires a longer lead time

Those puff sleeves and elegant train in back are in fact attached and can be removed when you want to transition from an airy statement dress to something sleek and minimalist. The curved neckline on the strapless mini is incredibly flattering and makes it easy to wear with just about any strapless bra. Reviews suggest the train may be quite long for petite frames but can be easily altered, and the cut of the dress itself is reportedly incredibly flattering and comfortable. “I bought this for my Vegas wedding and after the ceremony we walked through downtown and I got endless compliments on my dress,” raves one reviewer. “I never felt more beautiful in my entire life. This dress is a dream come true.”

Off-the-Shoulder Long-Sleeve Mini

21. ASOS Curve Lila Satin Dress

ASOS Curve

  • Size Range: US 12 to 26
  • Material: 46 percent polyester, 46 percent cotton, 5 percent nylon
  • Pros: can be worn with a strapless bra
  • Cons: reviews suggest is runs large

The draped neckline on this flirty mini is just too dreamy to pass up, and the fabric is wonderfully lightweight, making this a fabulous option for a hot-weather wedding (yes, even with long sleeves). Reviews suggest this dress runs large, so you may want to go down a size or plan for alternations for a better fit. One reviewer also suggests picking up some fashion tape to better secure the top in place, so you don’t have to futz with it all throughout the reception.

Feathered Bodycon

22. Alessandra Rich Off-the-Shoulder Feather Dress

Alessandra Rich

  • Size Range: IT 36 to 46
  • Material: 80 percent viscose, 10 percent silk, 10 percent elastane with ostrich and turkey feathers
  • Pros: can be worn with a strapless bra, material is stretchy and comfortable
  • Cons: high price point

Debbie Jellinsky may have been the villain of Addams Family Values, but there’s no denying the woman had style. Embrace your inner Joan Cusack in this fun feathered mini with sleek long sleeves and a fitted bodice. Though it may be hard to tell through the voluminous trim, there are seams along the top that mimic a corset for a subtle-yet-chic touch. Net-a-Porter suggests this mini runs true to size, but that those with wider hips may prefer to go up one size.

Carrie Bradshaw-Inspired

23. BHLDN Louise One-Shoulder Mini Dress

BHLDN

  • Size Range: US 0 to 18
  • Material: 100 percent polyester
  • Pros: can be worn with a strapless bra, trendy detailing
  • Cons: no reviews available

Who could’ve guessed that 3D rosettes a la Carrie Bradshaw would be making a comeback in 2023, and yet here we are. The oversize bloom on the shoulder of this ruched mini is quite the statement maker, so much so that we say you won’t even need a necklace or bold earrings to feel dolled up. The draping in the bodice is also incredibly flattering and does a spectacular job of masking any lumps or bumps along your torso.

Embroidered Florals

24.  Sachin & Babi Alanna Embroidered Dress

Sachin & Babi

  • Size Range: US 0 to 14
  • Material: 100 percent polyester
  • Pros: can be worn with a strapless bra, reviews suggest it runs true to size
  • Cons: material has very little stretch

For the bride on the hunt for a minimalist dress with just a little something extra, this strapless mini has stunning floral embroidery along the neckline that continues along to the back. It’s simple, but not too simple, and the fit-and-flare silhouette looks gorgeous on just about every body type. Reviews suggest it runs true to size, but if you’re unsure, we suggest using your bust measurement rather than your hips because of the flared skirt.

Glittery Fit-and-Flare

25.  Olivia Bottega Milana Sparkly Dress

Olivia Bottega

  • Size Range: US 2 to 34
  • Material: 100 percent polyester
  • Pros: has built-in bust support, custom sizing available
  • Cons: made to order and sorequires a longer lead time

Hoping for some sparkle but not a fan of sequins and crystals? This shimmering fit-and-flare mini is incredibly flattering with a sweetheart neckline and straps that can be worn up or down to fit your style. The dress is made to order, so be sure to order far enough in advance to accommodate any alterations you may need (the website says production can take up to 11 weeks). Or, if you’d rather get ahead of alterations you anticipate, you can request a custom-sized dress just for you, which takes into account your bust, waist, hip, bicep, torso and cup sizes, as well as your desired skirt length.

Dramatic Collar

26. 16Arlington Michelle Feather-Trimmed Dress

16Arlington

  • Size Range: UK 4 to 14
  • Material: 100 percent polyester with ostrich feather trim
  • Pros: bra friendly, off-white hue, roomy fit
  • Cons: material has little to no stretch

We like to think of this dress as a sort of Wednesday Addams-meets-Studio 54 bridal vibe. The dramatic collar eliminates any need for a necklace, while the peek-a-boo detail prevents it from feeling too covered up. And those feather-trimmed flare sleeves? They’re simply too fun to not take for a spin on the dance floor. The brand suggests this frock runs a bit big, but you should also note that there is little to no stretch to the material. We suggest double checking the size guide to confirm which size is likely to fit you best.

Feather-Inspired Embellishment

27. ASOS Feather Sequin Mini Dress

ASOS

  • Size Range: US 0 to 14
  • Material: 100 percent polyester
  • Pros: bra-friendly, adjustable tie waist
  • Cons: no reviews available

We love this feather-inspired twist on a typical sequin mini, which also comes with an adjustable waist tie so you can cinch your waist or let loose. There is a triangular cutout at the back (great for improving breathability) that doesn’t go too low, so most regular bras should still work under this frock. ASOS dresses tend to run true to size.

Ruffled Polka Dots

28.  Majorelle Janey Mini Dress

Majorelle

  • Size Range: XXS to XL
  • Material: 100 percent polyester
  • Pros: reviews suggest it runs true to size
  • Cons: not bra friendly

We adore the fun and festive spirit of this ruffled mini. The low-cut V neckline and sheer back, while not bra friendly, add a sexy touch that prevents all those ruffles and polka dots from feeling a bit too twee. Reviewers say it runs true to size, however many note that the material was very wrinkled in transit, so we suggest steaming before you try it on to really get the full effect.

Dramatic Deep V

29.  Tadashi Shoji Sabine Mini Dress

Tadashi Shoji

  • Size Range: XS to 4X
  • Material: 100 percent polyester
  • Pros: flattering twist front, ‘80s inspired silhouette, material has some stretch
  • Cons: not bra friendly

Long sleeves and covered back help to balance the short hemline and deep V neckline on this ‘80s-inspired wedding dress. The twist detail at the waist is also incredibly flattering, drawing the eye in to create the illusion of a cinched in waist, no belt necessary. As you might imagine, a traditional bra won’t work with such a va-va-voom neckline, so be sure to pick up some fashion tape to ensure your gals are secure and comfortable.


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Abby Hepworth is an RRCA-certified running coach who has worked in fashion for over 10 years. Want to know what shoes are in this season? She's got you. Need recommendations on the best running apps? She's your gal. From trend explanations to designer gossip, Abby has your back.

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Abby Hepworth is an RRCA-certified running coach who has worked in fashion for over 10 years. Want to know what shoes are in this season? She's got you. Need recommendations on...