When it comes to short wedding dresses, savvy brides look to the experts for inspiration. Coming from Rebecca Vallance’s bridal collection, this elegant midi-gown features a sophisticated silhouette tailored from sequin embellished lace for something exceptionally special, that is classic and timeless. And detailed with diamate bows, it brings a touch of sparkle to the big day. If you’ve already picked something from Vallance’s dedicated bridal collection, we reckon this would make a great rehearsal dinner or post-wedding brunch option too.

Part-1950s prom dress, part-cropped bridal gown, this whimsical dress from bespoke bridal expert Blake Ida hits all the right wedding notes without tipping into twee or basic. Silk? Check. Princess Di-style puff sleeves? Check. Full skirt? Check. Featuring a sweetheart neckline and voluminous tiered skirt, its asymmetric tea-length also makes it a great option for thrifty brides looking for a dress that can be repurposed after the big day.

f there was ever a time to pull out all the stops, it’s your wedding day – and Sachin & Babi’s absolute diva of a dress does just that. Cut with a cascading high-low hem, it’s finished with a show-stopping oversized obi knot guaranteed to wow in your wedding photos.

Planning to eschew the veil as well as the floor-length gown? Safiyaa’s shimmering embroidered dress features a cape-effect silhouette, so you’ll still have the aesthetic effect of a traditional veil-and-gown without having to worry about fiddly hairpieces and overwrought updos. And we don’t need to tell you that all-over embroidery is perfect for hitting the dancefloor.

London-based bridalwear designer Kate Halfpenny has cornered the market for luxe separates, offering a range of mix-and-match tops, skirts and accessories (as well as full gowns) that give brides an experience that is as close to custom as possible without going fully bespoke. Happily, the range also includes a number of short options, such as this elegantly draped Okotan skirt. Pair with the matching Bardot-style corset for a bridal look that is simple yet utterly sophisticated

If you’re opting for a short gown as a second (or even third) outfit, you’re probably not looking to pay couture prices – but that doesn’t mean you have to scrimp on style. Rixo’s highly-regarded bridal collection offers an array of laidback gowns designed with thoroughly modern brides in mind. This open-back halterneck party dress is crafted from 100 per cent silk  in a groegous champagne hue for the most fabulous fun-but-graceful of costume changes.

Modern bride looking for a timeless piece? Turn to London-based label Khanum’s. Crafting elegant and sophisticated dresses for the big day, but with a slick, contemporary edge, look to the Kerena mini dress to see the vision in action. A short and simple silhouette made from crepe scuba, it features a pearl-trimmed scarf to throw across the neckline and oozes effortless style. Maya Jama and Rochelle Humes are fans – and if it’s good enough for them, we’ll definitely be saying yes to the dress.

LA-based brand Cult Gaia is known for creating artistic, scultptural pieces inspired by nature and the goddess Gaia (hence the name). What better event than your wedding day to embrace your inner goddess? We’ll wait. The brand’s 2026 bridal collection focuses on freedom, movement and transformation using deep textures, materials and deisgns to create utterly romantic, modern pieces. The Fira dress is made from 100 per cent linen featuring lace inset cutouts and embroidery details that we can’t stop thinking about.

The ultimate in alternative bridalwear, this twinkling mini dress by occasionwear master Clio Peppiatt goes big on the sparkle with moon and sun motifs rendered in Swarovski beads and pearls.We can already hear the gasps as you walk down the aisle.