The Best Petite Wedding Dresses, According to a 5-Foot Tall Fashion Editor
At five feet tall, the struggle to find clothes that fit just right is one that I've come to know all too well, and I used to think that the search for wedding dresses for petite brides would be no different. Because nearly half of all women in America are 5'4" and under, I knew that I certainly wasn't alone in that regard. I'm sure many of you can relate to the hassle when it comes to trying on dresses—midis fit like maxis, maxis drag along the ground, and don't even get me started on gaping necklines (no-go on the nip slips). Let's be real: these are issues no to-be-wed should have to face on their big day; a day where they deserve to look and feel their best.
With so many petites out there, I knew there had to be better options, so I searched the internet high and low for the best wedding dresses for petite brides, and to my surprise, what I found eased my worries tremendously. Now let me ease your mind.
While the bridal industry as a whole has a long way to go in terms of becoming inclusive to all body types, the good news is that things are changing. Because so many wedding dress designers now offer made-to-measure sizing, finding your dream dress doesn't have to be a daunting task. Some beloved bridal brands, like Olivia Bottega, Justin Alexander and Morilee, even offer styles that were specifically designed with the petite bride in mind.
As your resident petite fashion expert, I'm here to help you through the process of finding the perfect fit. Keep reading to discover my top tips for dress shopping as someone 5'4" or under, as well as 20 of the best wedding dresses for petite brides, then, head to The Knot Vendor Marketplace to find a bridal salon near you where you can try them on in person.
In this article:
- 20 Best Wedding Dresses for Petite Brides 5'4" and Under
- What to Look for in Petite Wedding Dresses for Short Brides
- Petite Wedding Dress Shopping Tips
20 Best Wedding Dresses for Petite Brides 5'4" and Under
If your search for a petite wedding dress has led you here, you can sigh a breath of relief. As a petite woman myself, I used the same parameters I rely on while shopping to find some of the best petite wedding dresses for 2024 and 2025 brides. The best part is, these gowns, which work for a range of wedding budgets, are all available to shop now. One thing I can say for sure is that these picks are nothing short of perfection (pun intended). So, keep scrolling and let's dive in.
Cocomelody Sheath Sweep-Brush Train Lace Tulle Wedding Dress
Our love for this petite wedding dress is certainly blooming. All-over floral appliqués and a flattering mermaid silhouette make it a trendy option for 2024 brides. Not to mention, it was designed specifically for nearlyweds 5'4" and under as part of Cocomelody's petite collection. Complete the fashion-forward ensemble with a statement-making mini veil.
Size range: 0–18 (Custom sizing available)
Azazie Joie Gown
If you're a to-be-wed who wants to look like a princess on your special day, you're in luck. This gown looks like something out of a fairytale. Custom sizing makes the floral appliquéd style a stunning option for both petite and petite-plus brides alike. Pair it with some romantic accessories, like a cathedral veil, and you'll be set for your 'happily ever after' moment.
Size range: 0–28 (Custom sizing available)
DB Studio Long Sleeve V-Neck Crepe Mermaid Wedding Dress
Going to the chapel? This modest wedding dress was practically made for a religious wedding ceremony. It features sheer long sleeves, a V-neckline and a mermaid silhouette with button details down the back. It also comes with a ribbon to wrap around the waist, but you could easily swap it out with an embellished bridal belt if you were looking to add a little extra glam.
Size range: 0P–30W
Abercrombie & Fitch Strapless Scarf Maxi Dress in White
No train? No problem—especially when you're petite. The column silhouette of this strapless maxi gown makes it easy to hem to your ideal length (But since it's available in petite sizing, you may not need any alterations at all!). It comes with detachable spaghetti straps, plus a matching satin scarf, giving you countless ways to switch up your look.
Size range: XXSP–XLT
Melissa Sweet Large Floral Lace Long Sleeve Wedding Dress
Showing a bit of skin is a great way to create the illusion of height. This long-sleeve wedding dress doubles down on that idea with the help of its off-the-shoulder neckline and dramatic side leg slit. Cut from elegant floral lace fabric, it's a timeless bridal look you're sure to love.
Size range: 0P–30W
Cocomelody A-Line Sweep-Brush Train Taffeta Wedding Dress
Here's a petite wedding dress that's guaranteed to stand the test of time. With a halter neckline, A-line silhouette and no detailing or embellishments, this gown is as classic as they come. You'll love how comfortable its breezy skirt is, especially considering it was made perfectly proportioned for petites.
Size range: 0–30 (Custom sizing available)
David's Bridal Collection Off Shoulder Satin Gown Wedding Dress
If you love the look of a ball gown but worry it may overwhelm your petite frame, an A-line gown offers the perfect compromise. This off-the-shoulder option, for instance, has the same regal aesthetic, without quite as much volume. Plus, it also has pockets, so like, what's not to love? Dress up your exposed decolletage with a statement-making bridal necklace and you'll be good to go.
Size range: 0P–30W
Lillian West Natural Waist Fit and Flare with Lace Details Petite
Being petite doesn't mean you have to sacrifice on bridal glam for your big day. This fit and flare gown brings all the drama and then some. With an appliquéd bodice and chapel-length train, it's a petite bride's dream.
Size range: Custom
Azazie Xena Gown
Though glamorous enough to wear on its own, this A-line gown was practically made for accessorizing. Its deep V-neckline and empire waist keep things classic, while its illusion lace back gives it an eye-catching touch.
Size range: 0–30 (Custom sizing available)
Cocomelody A-Line Sweep-Brush Train Lace Tulle Wedding Dress
Here's a whimsical pick we love for a garden wedding. The A-line gown features a sweetheart neckline, puff sleeves and a sheer overlay with scattered floral appliqués. Available in both standard and petite sizing, it's an all-around win in our books.
Size range: 0–18 (Custom sizing available)
Karen Millen Petite Premium Bonded Crepe Detachable Cape Maxi Dress
This convertible wedding dress offers multiple looks for the price of one. Simply remove its detachable long-sleeved cape, and you're left with a simple strapless gown. It's a great option for to-be-weds looking to transition into a second look for the reception, or be able to get use out of their wedding dress after the big day.
Size range: 0–12
Morilee Shiloh Dress
At the intersection of sweet and sexy, you'll find the Shiloh dress. Its figure-flattering lace bodice–with an illusion plunging neckline–is met with a streamlined chiffon skirt and a chapel-length train. Morilee's custom sizing option ensures you'll have the perfect fit, no matter your height.
Size range: Custom
Justin Alexander Signature Satin Fit and Flare Gown with Folded Neckline Petite
This dress puts a modern spin on a classic bridal look. Made especially for petites, the charming strapless gown features a sweetheart neckline and a chapel-length train. Finish off your timeless ensemble with some sparkly accessories, or let its stunning silhouette stand alone. Either way, you'll be turning heads.
Size range: Custom
Azazie Platinum Gown
Say "I do" to the perfect fit with the help of Azazie's custom sizing option. This A-line gown, with a glamorous crystal-adorned bodice and dramatic tulle skirt is an excellent alternative to a classic ball gown, as it was created with petite frames in mind.
Size range: 0–30 (Custom sizing available)
Olivia Bottega Plus Size Crepe Wedding Dress Jessica
Petite plus brides—here's a minimalist style you're sure to love. Its simple silhouette, with a square neckline and train, offers the perfect blank canvas to accessorize with. Our suggestion? An eye-catching embroidered veil or statement jewelry.
Size range: 0–14 (Custom sizing available)
Justin Alexander Strapless Illusion Lace Fit and Flare Gown Petite
Romantic brides: you're bound to fall in love with this strapless gown featuring a sweetheart neckline, fit and flare silhouette and floral appliqués scattered throughout. Because it was designed for petites, you can enjoy its chapel-length train without excessive alterations.
Size range: Custom
Watters Tilly Strapless Corset Front-Slit Wedding Gown
Designed with the fashion-forward bride in mind, this pearl-adorned gown is guaranteed to make a statement on your big day. Its strapless neckline and side leg slit offers a lengthening effect that petites will love. Need a shorter length? Its streamlined skirt can easily be hemmed to your specific measurements.
Size range: 0–16
Abercrombie & Fitch Plunge Cowl Back Maxi Dress in White
This petite wedding dress is perfect for brides on a budget. Not only is it affordable, but it was also designed specifically for brides 5'4" and under, so you won't have to worry about the skirt dragging on the ground. Its charming satin slip silhouette falls just above the ankles, allowing you to show off your wedding shoes.
Size range: XXSP–XXLT
Olivia Bottega Sparkle Wedding Dress Heist
Bring on the bling! This all-over glitter gown is perfect for the bride who believes more is more. Whether you're looking for petite or petite-plus sizing, you can rest assured knowing your gown will be the perfect fit thanks to Olivia Bottega's made-to-measure offering.
Size range: 0–30 (Custom sizing available)
Silk Maison Front Cross Halter Neck Silk Dress
Made from 100% silk, this pick is guaranteed to keep you comfortable throughout a night full of dancing. While not specifically designed for petites, it's just the right length to be worn as a maxi dress by shorter brides. Plus, its draped bodice reduces the need for any complicated alterations.
Size range: XS–L
What to Look for in Petite Wedding Dresses for Short Brides
Through years of trial and error, I've found that finding the right wedding dress style as a petite is all about working with your proportions. While the goal might not necessarily be to look tall, you probably don't want to look shorter than you actually are. Opting for styles that draw the eye vertically is a great way to create the illusion of length—and if you're going the full-length dress route, you'll likely want all the length you can get! These three styles are our tried and true options for petite and petite-plus brides alike.
Lower Necklines
When it comes to flattering a petite figure, sometimes less fabric is more. Opting for a lower neckline is an easy way to ensure your frame isn't overwhelmed by excess fabric. Sweetheart and plunging necklines, in particular, are ideal options, as they have an elongating effect on the neck. Strapless gowns are also a popular choice for petite to-be-weds for this same reason. Pro tip: Tailoring around the neckline can be a great investment if you have a smaller chest and are worried about fabric draping.
Empire Waists
Not only are empire waists a beloved bridal style, but they can also help create the illusion that your legs are longer than they actually are, which is great if you're a petite bride hoping to add height to your wedding day look. Because empire waistlines fall just below the bust, they reduce the need for complicated alterations around the bodice, making them an all-around win for petites.
Mermaid or Trumpet Silhouettes
If you're looking for that dramatic bridal look, but feel that a ball gown may overwhelm your petite frame, the good news is that there are plenty of other options. A mermaid or trumpet silhouette can be a great way to incorporate a full skirt, without feeling like you're drawing in fabric. Not to mention, they're oh-so chic.
Petite Wedding Dress Shopping Tips
Now, we've shown you some of our favorite petite bridal gowns that are available to shop now, but don't worry if you haven't quite found the one. The truth is that some of the best wedding dresses for short brides can be found outside the petite section. That's right. It's totally possible to find the wedding dress of your dreams at your local bridal salon, you just have to know exactly what to look for. Here, we've rounded up a few helpful tips to guide your wedding dress shopping experience.
Try Before You Buy
With so many simple ways to shop from the comfort of your home, you might be inclined to go the online shopping route for your wedding gown. While browsing styles virtually is certainly a good idea to help narrow your search, we recommend seeing your dress in person before you make the final decision. Because the models pictured online likely have different proportions than you, it can be difficult to tell how a dress will actually look on your frame without trying it on. Attending an in-person styling session at your local bridal salon can also be a great way to get an expert's advice on what styles best suit your body type.
Invest in Tailoring
The reality for most brides, petite or not, is that wedding dresses don't typically come tailored to your exact proportions. Even if you purchase a gown specifically made for petites, there is a chance you may need some slight wedding dress alterations, such as a simple hem on the skirt, or taking in at the waist. We recommend factoring the cost of these services into your wedding dress budget just in case. Remember: alterations can take time, especially during peak wedding season, so be sure to give yourself plenty of time to bring your dress in.
Consider a Heel
A little heels goes a long way–There's nothing wrong with embracing your height on your big day with a pair of wedding flats. However, if you are looking to take your look to new heights (literally), there are plenty of ways to do so without sacrificing your comfort. Platforms and wedges are great options for petite brides, as they give you that extra boost while still being comfortable enough for all-day wear. No matter what style you choose, be sure to keep footwear height in mind when choosing (and altering) your gown.