Short wedding dresses: how to make the right choice

Peculiarities

Practicality, price and comfort – this is why short wedding dresses are increasingly becoming the choice of modern brides.
Short outfits have at least five advantages:

1. They are much more comfortable. Guests will definitely not trample the hem, and therefore it will look decent all day long. And the bride herself may feel more comfortable in such a dress if she is not used to wearing elongated models in everyday life. The opportunity to relax and not be afraid every minute of getting tangled in layers of a skirt is worth a lot;
2. A short wedding dress that reveals the bride's gorgeous legs looks much sexier than a traditional long dress. If you have something to show, then why hide it under a long and voluminous skirt;
3. You won't feel hot in a short dress at a summer wedding. It's perfect for a beach wedding. In a short dress, the bride can go shallowly into the pond with the groom to pose for the photographer to create amazing shots;
4. Shorter dresses usually cost the bride much less. This can be a deciding factor for many couples who are on a budget;
5. A short dress is also a practical option because after the wedding you can easily wear it to a party or holiday , and not hang it as a dead weight in the closet. This is especially true for colored models. Many girls openly say: “Why should I buy an evening dress for a date in a restaurant? I still have my wedding outfit!” By the way, you can wear it for an anniversary.

Any wedding photographer will confirm how painful it is to photograph tense brides who constantly unattractively lift up their hemlines for fear of stepping on them. In a short dress, the bride can easily jump into the arms of the groom and not limit herself during the first dance.

Chic transformer model with a removable train

A transformable wedding dress gives the bride the opportunity to try on several looks at once. Thanks to the detachable train, she will look like an elegant lady in a royal outfit at a wedding ceremony, and a young romantic girl in a short dress at an evening banquet. In this outfit, the bride will be able to participate in competitions and dance without interference.

The transformable dress model rises higher in the rankings on world catwalks every year and wins the trust of women with its beauty, versatility, and practicality. It happens that the removed train changes the dress beyond recognition, it turns from long and fluffy to short, tight-fitting.

It should be noted that the selection of accessories for such a dress requires special care, because you are choosing them not for one dress, but for two at once. You need to make sure that the details of the outfit - veil, gloves, necklace, shoes - look harmonious both with and without an attached train.

When is it appropriate?

In the following cases, the choice of a short dress is quite justified:

• in a wedding outdoors, in the garden, when the priority is the issue of convenience;
• if a non-celebratory ceremony is planned among close friends and parents;
• at the second and subsequent weddings taking place in a less solemn atmosphere;
• at a thematic celebration where deviations from the canons are stylistically justified.

Often a short dress is chosen on the second day of the wedding, when a crinoline and corset are no longer needed. The bride also wants to enjoy the holiday: dance a lot and take part in interesting competitions. Especially if on her wedding day she was wearing a classic dress, which is not very comfortable to walk in, let alone participate in an entertainment program.

Who suits it

Content

Modern brides are increasingly choosing short wedding dresses for the most important celebration in their lives. The styles of such a wedding dress are optimal for girls of short stature, who risk simply “getting lost” in the abundance of multi-layered skirts, lace, frills and heavy crinoline. It will also be an ideal option for owners of classic figure standards - long legs, ample breasts, a wasp waist. There are simply unlimited number of outfit variations for such brides, any of them will look impressive and flawless.

A recognized leader in the world of wedding fashion and designer of the most famous iconic wedding dresses, Vera Wang, believes that any bride will look stunning in such a model. Of course, with a small amendment - clothes must be selected taking into account the characteristics of the female figure.

Length

Shortened models of wedding dresses will delight you with variety.

Mini

Owners of ideally slender legs can safely focus on this option, but you should not choose ultra-short models. The maximum openness that a bride can allow herself, so as not to be considered vulgar, is the hem 10 centimeters above the knees.
Important! Don't forget the main rule of good taste: the shorter the skirt, the more covered the top should be.
Shoulders should be covered with at least translucent fabric. This finish will give chastity to the neckline and shoulders. A boat collar or V-shaped neckline will emphasize the fragility of the neck.

Don't worry that the minidress looks too simple. Rich decoration with rhinestones or pearls, interesting embroidery, and a competent selection of accessories can help you out. A veil is quite suitable for a very short wedding dress; the main thing is to choose a shorter veil so that it does not distract attention from the dress.

Not long and not short

Dresses with a skirt that covers the knees are suitable for most brides who want to wear a short dress on their wedding day.

A straight sheath dress with or without sleeves is considered a classic. The model is perfect for those who want to add minimalism and rigor to their image. Those who want to look sexier should pay attention to tight-fitting models that effectively highlight the contours of the figure.

In a mid-length dress you will be able to show off your beautiful legs and stand out among the many girls in traditional wedding dresses.

Just below the knee

Outfits of this cut are already more demanding on the bride's figure , so it is important to rationally assess the proportions of the figure. Thus, dresses to the middle of the calf will definitely not decorate girls of medium and short height, but will make their figure more squat.

Interesting! The advantage of a la cocktail wedding dresses is that the style is ideal for parties, which means the bride will feel comfortable.

In addition, dresses just below the knee can be worn with pleasure even after the wedding celebration .

Short in front, long in back

Asymmetrical outfits are a compromise option for brides who want to look traditional and feel comfortable. The short front of the dress does not interfere with movement during a photo walk, climbing stairs or participating in dance competitions.

Short dresses with long back skirts are both frank and sensitive. The difference from the front edge of the skirt to the back can be quite insignificant if the bride wants to add contrast to the image, but at the same time look quite modest and close to the classic understanding of the bride’s image.

Why are midi-length wedding dresses better than other options?

If the style of the dress is not too luxurious, then it will be easy to transform it into a beautiful casual outfit

In this case, you can kill two birds with one stone: get a cute dress for every day or for going out and save yourself the hassle of deciding the future fate of your wedding dress.

Photo of a midi wedding dress with sleeves

Mid-length wedding dresses have many advantages:

• comfort - the bride does not need to constantly monitor the hem so as not to stain it or break the train. It is much more convenient to move, dance, go to the toilet;
• versatility - suitable for brides with any type of figure , if you choose the right style;
• corrector functions – a midi dress allows you to hide figure flaws and focus on your strengths;
• large selection - the range of wedding dresses in this category is very extensive, since the medium-length hem opens up space for experimentation;
• color variety – it’s easy to find midi wedding dresses in both pastel colors and bright saturated shades on sale.
• beautiful appearance - many midi models have an original style and luxurious design. In this category, it is easiest to choose a beautiful and unique outfit.

Pink midi-length wedding dress with lace

Wedding dresses are made from expensive fabrics, and jewelry for them also costs a lot. The price also depends on the availability of drapery, because creating a multi-layered hem requires several hours of precise and painstaking work. An extra 30 centimeters of hem will cost a significant amount, especially if it has complex decor.

The most beautiful styles with photos

When choosing a cut, it is no less important to take into account the features of your figure than when determining the desired length of the outfit. Of course, with ideal parameters, you can afford any model: in this case, it is enough to focus on your own taste. For example, fans of the minimalist style can choose a simple straight-cut satin dress.

With a train

An outfit complemented with a train looks impressive, especially in wedding photographs. A spectacular piece can be of any length, lush, multi-layered, decorated with ruffles, flounces and even feathers. The choice depends solely on the preferences of the bride.

If she wants a long and voluminous train, it is important to agree in advance with the assistant who will hold it. You can also make a special loop for the bride’s hand to hold the luxurious detail.

Advice! For convenience, it is better to purchase a dress with a removable train. This will allow the bride to appear in all her splendor at the ceremony, and when the fun begins, she will be able to get rid of any movement-restricting details.

The most popular cable options:

1. on a transparent lining with a lace pattern, which is duplicated on a closed short sheath dress;
2. a chiffon train to emphasize the grace of, for example, a lace dress;
3. contrasting shade with the fabric of the wedding dress.

Particular attention should be paid to choosing shoes for a short dress with a train. Ballet flats and low-heeled shoes are not acceptable. Shoes with high heels will complement the look as effectively as possible.

With a full skirt

Short fluffy dresses are suitable for many brides, as a voluminous skirt made of lightweight materials favorably transforms the silhouette, bringing it closer to the universal hourglass type. Even a plump girl in a dress with a full skirt will look slender, and a petite one will become charmingly fragile.

Idea! If the bride wants to look like a princess from a fairy tale, without wearing a floor-length dress, then a fluffy short dress is what she needs. Models with bare shoulders look especially impressive.

Short and at the same time curvy models are suitable for lovers of retro style. The first samples were created from a corset bodice, emphasizing the waist, and a voluminous skirt with a crinoline. This contrast visually made the girls slimmer and gave the image elegance. Today, when choosing a short fluffy dress in retro style, it is appropriate to complement the look with short gloves or a collar in the form of a bow or ruffle.

Another fashion hit is the so-called “babydoll” dresses, in which the emphasis is on the fusion of innocence and femininity. A tight bodice with an airy skirt turns an ordinary girl into a doll. To emphasize this image, bows, rhinestones, pearls and ribbons are used.

Lace

European modern catalogs for brides offer a large number of elegant lace dresses of atypical lengths. They are popular, although they are not suitable for everyone. Textured lace visually adds volume to the figure , and therefore it is better for overweight girls to choose models with small inserts made of exquisite fabric.

According to the rules of good taste, the emphasis in the image is always placed not on decorations, but on the texture of the fabric. Therefore, when choosing a lace outfit, you should not overload it with accessories. A highlight can be a belt made of satin ribbon in the color of the bride’s bouquet.

With lace sleeves

Partially decorated outfits with noble material look no less impressive than those completely lace.

A patterned bodice and a lace-lined back and hips can add sophistication to the look, but the material looks especially delightful on the arms. The bride will look both seductive and gentle. The lace pattern will hide minor imperfections from prying eyes and make your hands flawless.

In addition, long sleeves on short models are a detail that adds a touch of modest elegance to the look.

For pregnant

A protruding belly will help hide an empire style outfit with a very high waistline. A skirt flowing in soft waves will successfully decorate your figure.

Idea! If pregnancy is accompanied by excess weight gain in the arms, you can hide it with a bolero.

But expectant mothers should not wear dresses with a peplum at the waist: the detail will further round out the tummy. Puffed sleeves will also add unwanted volume to the figure : it is better to abandon them in favor of openwork options or modest straps.

When choosing a dress for pregnant women, not only beauty plays a role, but also comfort. Shortened models do not restrict the tummy and allow you to breathe freely.

It is important to take additional care to ensure that the bride is not hot , especially if the celebration is planned on a summer day. For this purpose, it is better to choose a dress made of light fabrics.

And, of course, it is better for the newlywed to refuse models with a corset, tights that squeeze the legs and high-heeled shoes. If you want to emphasize the sophistication of your legs, you can take a closer look at shoes with thin straps.

Lush short dress

The most popular short wedding dress is with a full skirt. This model is suitable for girls with narrow hips. This season, fluffy short dresses are presented in a variety of options, from A-line and large retro-style skirts to an exclusive baby doll dress.

Selection by body type

When choosing a wedding dress, you must take into account the features of your figure in order to highlight your advantages:

1. The bell style with a flared skirt and a tight-fitting bodice will perfectly hide plump or, conversely, too thin hips. If you have a low waist, it is better to avoid this outfit: it will make your figure disproportionate;
2. For ladies with full arms, it is better to choose a dress with long sleeves. It is not necessary that they be made from the same fabric as the dress. They can be made of chiffon or lace. The main thing is that the sleeves are not too tight. Alternatively, you can choose a dress with three-quarter length sleeves, which will allow you to show off your graceful wrists;
3. A dress with short puffed sleeves will make a bride’s silhouette with narrow shoulders more harmonious;
4. With an undefined waist, you can distract your gaze from the bride's hands by choosing a model with airy, flared sleeves. They will add femininity to the image. If there are folds in the waist area, it is better to abandon the belt;
5. Overweight brides are better off not trying on dresses that are longer than the knees and take a closer look at a model with an asymmetrical skirt, which will make your legs slimmer and longer;
6. A very fluffy tutu skirt looks good only on long-legged and slender brides with model parameters. For those with wide hips, it is better to choose a semi-circle skirt;
7. For brides with a good figure, both a fluffy hem and a tight-fitting skirt that emphasizes the curves of the figure are suitable.

Medium length wedding dress styles

Almost 70 years ago, Christian Dior enriched world fashion with midi length. In the post-war era, formal pencil skirts and A-line dresses became popular. However, now these options are also relevant.

Photo of a midi length wedding dress

Midi length is a flexible concept. Some people think that such a hem reaches the knees. Someone is sure that a midi is approximately ¾ of a long floor-length skirt. Who is right? Both options are correct.

There is even a special formula that allows you to find out the optimal hem length for a particular girl. The calculation method is simple; you need to multiply the girl’s height by 0.5. The resulting number of centimeters will be the optimal size of the skirt.

It is believed that a dress selected according to this formula frames the girl’s figure as beautifully as possible and slims her silhouette. If the bride is slim and without any additional tricks, then almost any midi dress will suit her.

Blue midi-length wedding dress

There are several styles of wedding dresses with medium length:

• puffy - a shorter version of a ballgown, characterized by a tight waistband and a flared hem. Volume is added to the skirt with drapery or crinoline;
• A-line – the dress has a tight top and slightly flared bottom. The waist line is highlighted with a belt or cut features;
• the case fits tightly on the figure, hugging it beautifully. This is a great option for slender or slightly plump brides with seductive shapes. The style from the legendary Coco Chanel will also suit curvy girls, but they will have to pay special attention to the choice of fabric and cut of the product;
• straight - the style is not tight, but not too wide. With the help of a straight midi dress it is easy to hide figure flaws; you just need to correctly place accents with accessories or cut details;
• with an asymmetrical hem - this option is often found in modern wedding collections, therefore it is considered one of the most relevant in 2021. The most common option is that the hem is short in the front and long in the back. Some models even have a small train.

Such a classification cannot fully convey the richness of the range of wedding dresses with midi length. After all, other factors also matter: the presence of sleeves, the shape of the neckline, the decorative elements and accessories used, the material the dress is made of and its color.

White or red, black or colored?

The traditional color for a wedding look is white, symbolizing the tenderness and purity of the bride. It is he who leads in wedding catalogs, although in recent years girls have willingly preferred cream, peach, champagne, and ivory colors to boiling white.

At the same time, bright dresses for brides are also gaining popularity, with red models leading the way. For some, this is an opportunity to return to their roots, because in Rus', brides wore red sundresses with embroidery, symbolizing youth and energy. Interestingly, traditionally in Ancient Rome, a girl wore a red veil to a celebration in order to strengthen a harmonious relationship with her husband and attract wealth to the family.

For others, an extravagant red outfit is an opportunity to demonstrate their courage and attract more attention. The main thing when choosing one of the 25 shades of red is to take into account your type. Only fair-skinned brunettes can afford bright scarlet, while blondes need to look for lighter and more delicate shades. Most tones will suit slender brides, but it is better to focus on dark red options for fat ones.

Recently, two-tone dresses for brides have come into fashion. This can be a light dress with a single bright accent in the form of a belt or embroidery on the hem, or, conversely, a colored dress with white trim.

Delicate models in pink and blue shades remain trendy. They are usually chosen for their practicality and the ability to wear them more than once after the wedding.

Red

A colored short wedding dress is bought when the newlyweds do not want a large wedding banquet and do not intend to get married. To celebrate a wedding at a party with close friends, a mini-dress of any color is suitable, because it looks unusual and piquant.

Since ancient times, the color red has been considered a symbol of beauty. The expression “a beautiful maiden” ambiguously indicated that the girl was unusually beautiful. According to ancient beliefs, it is believed that the color red protects against the evil eye and envy.

More and more girls are choosing red for their wedding dress. It has many different shades, you can choose an outfit to suit any appearance and character, satisfying the most sophisticated requirements of modern brides.

Fashion designers are seriously interested in red wedding dresses: watch our video and let it inspire you to new ideas:

Stylish accessories

A lace bolero is perfect for a low-cut outfit. It will add modesty and elegance to the look. You can only wear it for a photo shoot, and take it off in a hot restaurant hall. The bolero turns from a beautiful accessory at a winter wedding into a functional item that allows you to cover your shoulders and neck at the necessary moments.

It is better to choose classic shoes. The bride's legs are open, so stockings and tights do not always look good with sandals. For a short dress, it is better to choose stockings or tights in a flesh-colored color rather than white.

You shouldn’t give up the traditional accessory, the veil. Even with a short dress, she looks great, if you don’t choose a floor-length model.

Important! Follow a simple rule: the shorter the skirt, the shorter the veil.

If you consciously refuse a traditional accessory and want to add some zest to your wedding style, you can choose a simple headband or headband. Girls will look charming if they weave fresh flowers into their hair. For older ladies, you can choose a light hat with a small brim and a light veil.

Color and material

The cocktail version of the wedding look implies that the fabrics and textures used will be light and flowing. Thick fabrics or lace are suitable for a sheath dress. You can combine several fabrics in this outfit.

The same applies to flowers. You can choose midi models in which the top and bottom will contrast. You may prefer a smooth transition of shades from a rich bottom to a pastel top. Or stick to the classic white version, decorating it with expensive jewelry.

When choosing the color and material for a midi dress, you will once again be convinced of its versatility. Here you can fantasize and safely experiment.

Tips for choosing

To make a shortened model look advantageous, use some tips:

1. If you are not a fan of minimalism and do not want to look too modest, choose a dress with rich decoration : rhinestones, beaded embroidery, a bright belt;
2. Buy shoes that match the dress or match the belt to demonstrate good taste;
3. If you have a very good figure, you shouldn’t hide it! Avoid closed sleeves and a fluffy hem, and feel free to show off your assets. At the same time, do not step over the line beyond which your image will be considered provocative. For example, do not expose your chest and legs too much.

On one shoulder

The undisputed hit of this season is “one shoulder” and, oddly enough, it has also reached wedding fashion. Designer wedding dresses for 2021 are short and slightly cropped, with an asymmetrical one-shoulder top - an unexpected and very successful find. Choose a sophisticated fitted or fluffy dress with a tea length (ankle-length) frill, which is considered the most trendy today. In such exclusive clothing you will not only be stylish, but also very feminine and extremely beautiful. See photo examples.