20 Petite Wedding Dresses That Prove Less is More

petite wedding dresses

When it comes to wedding dresses, size and fit are everything. For all the petite brides out there, finding a dress that complements your height while making you feel like the queen you are can be a challenge. We’re sharing a dazzling list of 20 petite wedding dresses in this post to show you which wedding dresses are best for petite brides. From classic elegance to modern chic, these gowns are tailored to highlight your beauty, ensuring you look and feel your best on your special day. Two Hearts Bridal offers wedding dresses that compliment petite brides - visit Two Hearts Bridal to work with an experienced stylist and find the best style for your petite frame.

1. The Classic A-Line Wedding Dress

An A-line dress is a timeless choice that flatters every figure, and it’s especially wonderful for petite brides. The gradual flare from the waist creates a lengthening effect, giving you that graceful, statuesque look. Opt for a dress with minimal embellishments to keep the focus on your natural beauty.

2. The Sleek Sheath

If you’re aiming for a more modern and streamlined look, a sheath dress might be your perfect match. This style hugs your body and elongates your silhouette, making you appear taller. Choose a design with a V-neck or spaghetti straps to enhance the elongating effect.

3. The Tea-Length Charm

For a vintage-inspired look, a tea-length dress is both adorable and sophisticated. Falling just below the knee, this style is perfect for showing off your legs and fabulous wedding shoes. It’s a playful yet elegant choice that’s ideal for a garden or retro-inspired wedding.

4. The Empire Waisted Gown

An empire waist dress, which cinches just below the bust and flows down, is fantastic for petite brides. This cut creates the illusion of longer legs and offers a romantic, fairy-tale feel. It’s perfect for brides who want a dreamy and ethereal look.

5. The Off-the-Shoulder Gown

Off-the-shoulder dresses are incredibly flattering for petite frames. They draw attention to your collarbones and shoulders, creating a balanced and proportional silhouette. Pair this style with a fitted bodice and a flowing skirt for an enchanting look.

6. The Short and Sweet Mini

Who says a wedding dress has to be long? A mini dress can be just as stunning and elegant. This bold choice is perfect for a casual or beach wedding. It’s also a great option for a second dress if you want to change into something more fun for the reception.

7. The Fitted Mermaid

A mermaid dress that fits closely to the body before flaring out at the knees is a showstopper. This style accentuates your curves and adds height, making it a stunning choice for petite brides who want to make a dramatic entrance.

8. The High-Low Hem

A high-low hem dress, which is shorter in the front and longer in the back, offers the best of both worlds. It allows you to show off your legs while still having the elegance of a train. This playful yet sophisticated style is perfect for the bride who wants a unique look.

9. The Illusion Neckline

An illusion neckline, which features sheer fabric with delicate embroidery or beadwork, adds a touch of romance and elegance to your look. This style is perfect for petite brides as it draws the eye upward, elongating your figure and adding a touch of mystique.

10. The Convertible Gown

A convertible gown with a removable skirt allows you to have a dramatic look for the ceremony and a shorter, more playful style for the reception. It’s versatile and perfect for the bride who loves to switch things up.

11. The Structured Ball Gown

Ball gowns aren’t just for taller brides. A petite bride can absolutely rock a structured ball gown with a fitted bodice and a full skirt. The key is to choose a gown that’s tailored to your frame, ensuring you’re not overwhelmed by the fabric. This style is perfect for a fairy-tale wedding.

12. The Cap Sleeve Elegance

Cap sleeves are a delicate and feminine touch that works beautifully on petite brides. They add just enough coverage and style without overwhelming your frame. Pair cap sleeves with a fitted bodice and a flowing skirt for a look that’s both graceful and charming.

13. The One-Shoulder Stunner

A one-shoulder dress is a chic and modern choice that adds a touch of drama and sophistication. This asymmetrical style draws attention to your neckline and shoulders, creating a balanced and elegant look. It’s perfect for the fashion-forward bride.

14. The Simple Slip Dress

For the minimalist bride, a simple slip dress is both elegant and timeless. This style skims the body and highlights your natural shape without any extra frills or embellishments. It’s perfect for a chic city wedding or a sleek, modern venue.

15. The Boho Beauty

If your wedding has a bohemian vibe, a boho wedding dress with delicate lace, flowing fabric, and unique details is perfect. This style often features a relaxed fit and an ethereal quality that’s perfect for a beach or outdoor wedding. Embrace your inner free spirit with this beautiful style.

16. The Embellished Bodice

A dress with an embellished bodice and a simple skirt is a great way to add some sparkle and glamour without overwhelming your petite frame. The detailed bodice draws attention to your upper body, creating a balanced look that’s both stunning and elegant.

17. The Halter Neck

Halter neck dresses are not only stylish but also incredibly flattering for petite brides. This style draws the eye upward and highlights your shoulders and arms, creating a lengthening effect. It’s perfect for a modern, sophisticated bride who wants a sleek and chic look.

18. The Corset Top

A corset top dress offers structure and support while creating an hourglass figure. This style is perfect for petite brides who want to accentuate their curves and create a dramatic, feminine look. Pair it with a flowing skirt for a stunning contrast.

19. The Lace Overlay

Lace overlay dresses are romantic and timeless. The delicate lace adds texture and dimension without adding bulk, making it a perfect choice for petite brides. Opt for a dress with a fitted silhouette and a lace overlay for a look that’s both elegant and classic.

20. The Vintage-Inspired

For brides who love all things vintage, a dress with vintage-inspired details like lace, beading, or a tea-length hem is a charming choice. These dresses often feature intricate details and a nostalgic feel that’s perfect for a romantic and timeless wedding.

Finding Your Perfect Dress

When shopping for your petite wedding dress, keep these tips in mind to ensure you find the perfect fit:

  1. Tailoring is Key: No matter what style you choose, make sure your dress is tailored to your exact measurements. A well-fitted dress will enhance your natural beauty and ensure you feel comfortable and confident.

  2. Consider Your Venue: Your wedding venue can influence your dress choice. A beach wedding might call for a lighter, more flowy dress, while a grand ballroom might inspire a more formal gown.

  3. Don’t Be Afraid to Customize: If you find a dress you love but it’s not quite perfect, don’t hesitate to make customizations. Adding or removing sleeves, changing the neckline, or altering the length can make a big difference.

  4. Try Different Styles: Even if you have a specific style in mind, be open to trying on different silhouettes. You might be surprised by what looks best on you.

  5. Focus on Proportions: Choose a dress that balances your proportions. A fitted bodice with a flowing skirt, for example, can create a beautiful, balanced look.

Conclusion

Your wedding dress should make you feel beautiful, confident, and true to yourself. These 20 petite wedding dresses offer a variety of styles that prove what they lack in length, they make up for in style. Whether you’re drawn to classic elegance, modern chic, or bohemian beauty, there’s a perfect dress out there for you. Remember to enjoy the process and trust your instincts – after all, your wedding day is a celebration of your unique love story. And, browse our in-stock wedding dresses on our Pinterest page.

Sarah Ashworth