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Cristina Montemayor is a freelance writer and makeup artist whose work has appeared on HelloGiggles, Slate, Elite Daily, and Bustle.
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Wedding guest dress codes have become more expansive over the last decade, and with cocktail and destination attire being at the top of the list for contemporary couples, mini and midi hemlines are also growing in popularity for wedding guests. While midi dresses are a modern favorite for an elegant and polished look, minis can be just as stunning and sophisticated.
These styles are an excellent choice for petite wedding guests, as the shorter hemline creates the illusion of length along the body. Mini dresses also accentuate your figure while showing off your legs, allowing you to dance the night away unencumbered by swathes of fabric.
For those searching for an ensemble with a wow factor that won't upstage the bride, try a mini dress with beaded or embellished details, and pair it with minimal jewelry like diamond or pearl studs. Elegant fabrics like satin, velvet, and taffeta also allow these styles to be more formal, while lightweight materials like cotton and polyester are better suited for outdoor venues and dressy casual dress codes. Mini dresses can also be paired with tights and an oversized faux fur coat in the fall and winter, or a hat and strappy heels in the spring and summer.
If you've grown tired of the same flattering-yet-forgettable wedding guest looks, we suggest maximizing your wardrobe with a mini. Below, you’ll find a definitive round-up of mini dresses that will help you hit the dancefloor in style.
Runs: Small | Size: XXS - 3XL | Materials: Sheer mesh, pierced crochet detailing
Sheer mesh embroidered with pink and green florals gives this mini a romantic look and feel that's perfect for a spring or summer wedding. The slightly puffy sleeves, square neckline, and fitted bodice are exceptionally flattering for those with a small bust.
Runs: True to Size | Size: XS-XL | Materials: Lightweight silk charmeuse fabric
In a lightweight silk charmeuse fabric, this Reformation dress features a V-neckline and an adjustable waist tie. The universally flattering silhouette and mini hem length will accentuate a variety of body types and sizes.
Runs: True to Size | Size: 0 - 16 | Materials: Polyester
Is there anything prettier than a Chinoiserie printed dress? This soft and sweet mini with exaggerated sleeves is practically made for the spring season.
Runs: True to Size | Size: XXS - XL | Materials: Mid-weight, stretch poplin
The dramatic sleeves and tiered skirt on this mini are what elevate this look from a simple sundress to a stunning summer-inspired ensemble. For accessories, lean into the style of the season and go with a rattan clutch and strappy heels.
Runs: True to Size | Size: XXS - XL | Materials: Polyester, metallic; viscose lining
This tiered look is designed with gorgeous embroidered flowers, in various shades of red, orange, and pink, and removable straps to create a stunning strapless dress. A bow and ruched detailing in the back provides a comfortable fit that still looks feminine.
Runs: Body-conscious fit | Size: 0 - 6 | Materials: Nylon
The perfect mix of flirty and fun, this exquisite mini has a fitted embroidered bodice and structured ruffled sleeves. Pair with diamond earrings, a fun clutch, and metallic heels for a unique look.
Runs: True to Size | Size: 0 - 14 | Materials: Textured satin
Contrary to popular belief, mini dresses aren't just for the warmer months. For fall or winter nuptials, we love this deep navy textured satin dress. It's constructed from textured satin fabric for a structured, elegant look. Plus, it has pockets!
Runs: True to Size | Size: 0 - 12 | Materials: Polyester with a satin finish
This retro-inspired mini dress is made for swinging and twirling on the dancefloor. Multidirectional pleating and a high collar add shape and style to this darling number that hits just above the knee. Wear your hair up to showcase the halter top and show off your shoulders.
Runs: True to Size | Size: 0 - 10 | Materials: Polyester
Make an entrance in this show-stopping, one-sleeve little black dress. The dramatic exaggerated ruffle neckline is contrasted by the mini length of the skirt, making it an excellent choice for semi-formal weddings.
Runs: True to Size | Size: 00 - 10 | Materials: Silk
Make a striking statement in this asymmetrical silk dress. The bright shade of fuchsia is just the most perfect hue for summer, and pairs well with shades of citrus, like bright yellow, orange, and lime green.
Runs: True to Size | Size: 2-10 | Materials: Viscose, polyester
While many people assume a bohemian dress means casual, this is not necessarily true. This mock turtleneck with balloon sleeves elevates boho style to elegant heights. The semi-sheer chiffon fabric with ruched detail throughout is paired with a flattering cinched waist for a flawless silhouette.
Runs: True to Size | Size: XXS - XL | Materials: Polyester
This party-ready dress is heavily vintage-inspired but has a few modern updates, like the halter neck and super short hemline. Additionally, the open back provides a bit of sex appeal to this fun little number. Perfect for a roaring '20s wedding, this mini is not for the faint of heart.
Runs: True to Size | Size: DK32-42 | Materials: Orange sequined recycled stretch-tulle
This Rotate Birger Christensen mini is as festive as it gets—reflective sequins, open back, fitted mini skirt, and a fun orange hue. Pair with crystal earrings and a bold lip for the ultimate party-ready look.
Runs: True to Size | Size: XS - XL | Materials: Linen
The floral print and ruffle trim are simply sweet, giving this adorable mini a whimsical vibe perfect for a daytime wedding. Pair with mule heels and a fun bucket bag, and prepare for the compliments to roll in.
Runs: True to Size | Size: IT36 - 48 | Materials: Fine knit
This knit dress stands out for its kaleidoscope colors and a close, curve-enhancing asymmetrical fit. Playful yet stylish, this one-shoulder mini feels perfectly on-trend for a summer beach wedding.
Courtesy of Fame and Partners
Runs: True to Size | Size: 0 - 22, custom | Materials: 100% polyester light georgette
Once you slide into this trapeze pleated dress from Fame and Partners, you can't help but start twirling around the room. The powder purple color, delicate ruffle collar, and low open back give this dress a distinctly feminine feel. Keep your accessories simple and let this stunning dress speak for itself.
Runs: True to Size | Size: 0 - 14 | Materials: Mid-weight tulle
This embroidered floral mini, featuring see-through tulle sleeves, is just the sweetest thing for spring or summer nuptials. The pleating on the skirt is reminiscent of a wedding cake, which feels extra appropriate for the occasion.
Runs: True to Size | Size: 0 - 14 | Materials: Lightweight flocked tulle
Feeling fancy? This black mini features a tiered silhouette with all-over ruffles, giving it a dramatic vibe without being too over the top.
Runs: True to Size | Size: 12 - 20 | Materials: Woven
A long-sleeve mini dress is a chic option for a winter wedding. Take advantage of the plunging neckline and pile on your favorite delicate necklaces to style your look.
Runs: True to Size | Size: 0 - 14 | Materials: Mid-weight, stretch faux leather
Wearing a cutout dress to a wedding can sometimes be a risky move, but this Jonathan Simkhai mini dress does it right. The tasteful cutouts above the hip aren't too revealing, while the long sleeves and faux leather give this dress a bit of an edge.
Mini dresses may come with shorter hemlines, but that doesn't mean you're limited in terms of silhouette, fabric, or style. There are various minis to flatter every body type, from A-line to wrap dresses and sundresses. These styles are also appropriate for almost every dress code, except formal or black tie. For a semi-formal evening celebration, we love an embellished mini with fun sleeves, while a floral-printed sundress is more suited for spring or summer nuptials.
Definitely not! Mini dresses are appropriate for casual, cocktail, and semi-formal weddings. However, for a black tie, white tie, or formal dress code, skip the mini and instead opt for a floor-length gown.
Mini dresses are a fun and flirty dress style, and the accessories you choose to wear should echo the same sentiment. Add a pop of color with a statement clutch and metallic heels, or elevate the look with a simple necklace and dazzling drop earrings. If you want to dress down your look, swap the heels for flats or chic sandals, depending on the time of day and the location of the wedding.
You can count on almost every dress retailer to offer a bevy of mini dresses to choose from at varying price points. In addition, retailers like Reformation, Revolve, Net-a-Porter, and Lulus are great options for finding a mini to suit your personal style.
Contributing writer Cristina Montemayor has been writing for Brides for over two year, covering beauty, fashion, and relationships. She researches and sources the best fashion items for brides, grooms, wedding guests, wedding parties, and more.
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