Petite Wedding Dresses: Say ‘I do’ in Style

Every woman wants a special dress on their big day but the search can be a little more challenging for petites. You don’t want to look like you’re playing dress up - swamped in oceans of white fabric and shrunk by giant bows. Never fear, the dream gown awaits. As always, it’s about sizing and making the shape work for you. We take the hassle out of wedding dresses with our guide to fit, style and shopping destinations. Think of it as your ‘something new’…

Style Tips

· Keep it simple

Fussy detailing and long veils will overpower your smaller frame. Opt for a more paired-back, elegant look.

· Draw the line

Trumpet skirts, slinky sheath like numbers or A-line gowns will accentuate your waistline and make you appear taller.

· Stick your neck out

Halter neck dresses are wonderful for drawing the eye up the torso and making the silhouette seem longer.

Where to buy petite wedding dresses

· Jenny Packham

The new collection for petites is ethereal loveliness. Delicate capped sleeves, gossamer fine fabric sprinkled with sparkle and directional off-the-shoulder silhouettes. A little Gatsby, a lot of gorgeous.

Available to order now in UK sizes 4-16 at the Jenny Packham flagship stores and internationally. Visit Jenny Packham website for more info.

· Ann Taylor

A wide range for every bridal personality. From short and flirty to full-length and daring jumpsuits. Lace blooms in floral patterns, geometric sequins cut a dash on necklines and fish-tail skirts scream va-va-voom.

Shop now

· J Crew

Classic tailoring and minimalist sophistication abound. Think heart-shaped necklines, pocketed skirts and camisole straps. Easy, breezy cool.

Shop now

· David’s Bridal

Be sweeter than sweet in floaty layers of tulle or on-trend 50’s skirts. Not vamp enough? Try their plunging necklines and delicate lace-detail racer backs. Beautiful, beguiling and oh-so-modern.

Shop now

· Customised Chic

For a dress tailored specifically to your measurements try one of these destinations: Aisle Style (UK), Top Wedding (US), Shirleys Dress (US), Light in the Box (US), Sweety Wedding (US), Dylan Queen (UK) and Lace Marry shop on Etsy.

Dress from Aisle Style collection. Shop now.

Petite bridesmaid dresses

Bridesmaid dresses have come along way from their classic incarnations of frothy pouffes and garish colours. It seems now the general consensus is they should look nice. If your bridesmaid is petite (or you are a petite bridesmaid!) look to J Crew, ASOS and Coast to steer you up the aisle.