From shifts and hi-lo hemlines to graceful 1950s-style numbers, short wedding gowns are a key feature of many of this season’s bridal collections. Just the excuse you need to reveal a well-turned ankle or showstopping pair of heels
Short wedding gowns have always been in the mix, but 2017 offers fresh takes on leg-revealing wedding gowns. From minis with translucent overlays and romantic ballerina skirts to body-skimming cocktail gowns, our pick of this bridal trend offers smart options to match your style and the occasion. What we like most about the new season’s designs is that they may be shorter on length, but still offer full-on wedding glamour.
Contemporary elegance
This Nieve skirt with Linn jacket is by new London designer Andrea Hawkes. Offering impeccable elegance that can take you from register office to party, it is part of a collection that offers exceptional materials and finishes and with lots of bespoke options. andreahawkes.co.uk
Memphis belle
Cut to fit and flatter, and with a flirtatious frill to the hem, this Memphis wedding gown is by Ian Stuart. We love the fine lace and on-trend three-quarter sleeves in a classic design to take you effortlessly from ceremony to the grandest party. ianstuart-bride.com
Cocktail glamour
This Hollywood metallic jacquard shift in pearl colourway has timeless style credentials. Elegant cap sleeves and scalloped neckline – plus a neat bow – add up to a gown for the bride who doesn’t want to look as if she’s trying too hard. Created by Suzannah, it is part of a fantastic collection of cocktail and party gowns – and with lots of options to creat a bespoke piece for your wedding celebration. suzannah.com
Vintage finery
Vintage style but with a very glamorous twist, this Summer gown is by Katya Katya Shehurina. Designed to look like a two piece, it pairs a full box-pleat taffeta skirt with hi-lo hemline and rose waistband detail to an exquisite French lace fitted bodice. shehurina.com
Fifties chic
This Grace strapless 1950s-style gown is by London designer Melanie Potró. With clever integrated signature corsetry (Melanie used to design theatre and opera costumes), it is made of silk dupion with a tulle layer and silk-covered buttons to the back of the gown. melaniepotro.com
Silk dressing
This Rachel silk and tulle dress shows the verstaility of the hi-lo hemline. The clever cut of this mid-length number gives the impression of a bridal train. We also love the illusion panelling at the neckline and flattering cinched waist. Made of silk and tulle, the gown is part of the 2017 collection by brilliant London designer Kevin Muscat. muscatbridal.com
Short and sweet
The mini length can be tricky to carry off as a wedding gown, but Gemy Maalouf has combined a transclucent lace overlayer with a leg-revealing shorter-length skirt to create a design that is perfect for a destination wedding. gemymaalouf.com
Ballerina line
This gorgeous ballerina-length gown by Cymbeline is perfect if you want to show your heels but with the swish and glamour of a longer skirt. The pure white floral textured fabric is a particular feature, adding an element of pure romance. cymbeline.com
