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The most beautiful short wedding dresses

From pearl and crystal-encrusted to corseted satin, these dresses prove that there can be just as much drama with a mini

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Not everybody wants a traditional wedding gown – and, as the unwritten rules relax more and more, many brides are turning to something altogether more modern for their big day. Whether it's a bridal suit, a bedazzled second dress, flat shoes or a personalised veil, plenty of brides are moving away from convention with their looks. With this, there has been a rise in the number of women looking for short wedding dresses – and designers are seriously delivering.

Whether its a mini take on Vivienne Westwood's trademark design, a pearl-embellished frock by Retrofête or a flower-adorned Jacquemus slip dress, there has never been more choice if you're looking for a mini bridal moment.

Below, we round up 10 of the most beautiful short wedding dresses available to buy now.

Vivienne Westwood

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Vivienne Westwood's draped, corseted wedding gowns are so popular for a reason – they are supremely flattering and look great on just about everyone. This mini version of the Nova Cora dress sits just above the knee, and is a perfect choice for someone who wants understated drama.

Dress, £3,550, Vivienne Westwood

Retrofête

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Choosing a short dress but still want to tap into something traditional? This striking Retrofête mini dress is covered in pearl details, which helps keep it looking elegant and bridal despite the short hemline.

Dress, £1,377, Retrofête

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The New Arrivals Ilkyaz Ozel

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Yet more proof that a short dress is no less breathtaking – this mini by The New Arrivals Ilkyaz Ozel is covered in 3D floral detail and features a fun silhouette that will really show off your legs.

Dress, £1,535, The New Arrivals Ilkyaz Ozel

The Own Studio

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We love The Own Studio for the brand's impossibly chic bridal offering, which includes a number of party-perfect mini dresses. This bedazzled, strappy number is a particular favourite – it would look great with ballet flats and a voluminous veil.

Dress, £1,800, The Own Studio

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Jacquemus

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A beautiful design from Jacquemus that is partly sheer and covered in floral details. If you are planning a low-key beach wedding, then this is the number for you. Wear it barefoot and with minimal accessorising.

Dress, £1,125, Jacquemus

Self-Portrait

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After something shorter but not quite a mini dress? We love this elegant taffeta midi from Self-Portait which features a crystal embellishment at the neckline and a voluminous skirt.

Dress, £380, Self-Portait

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Marques'Almeida

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Puffball hems are having a moment, but there is still something so classic about this design from London favourite Marques'Almeida. The voluminous silhouette would look great with pointy flats and a fun bag for a city wedding.

Dress, £405, Marques'Almeida

Rotate Birger Christensen

short wedding dress

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This floral-applique option from Rotate has the impact of a gown with the cheekiness of a mini. The dress has something of a mullet hem with a long dramatic train at the back that will trail behind you as you walk down the aisle.

Dress, £555, Rotate Birger Christensen

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16Arlington

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We loved this 16Arlington silhouette as soon as it came down the catwalk. Named the Vezile dress, the design has exaggerated hip detail on both sides, adding a little spectacle to an otherwise classic dress.

Dress, £646, 16Arlington

Cult Gaia

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With a hint of 1920s about it, this fringed halterneck mini dress from Cult Gaia is made for a city wedding. We particularly love the low V-neck at the back – perfect for making a statement when the nuptials are taking place.

Dress, £1,035, Cult Gaia

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