Can You Wear a Short Dress to a Wedding? A Guest’s Guide

While long dresses are typically the go-to option, short wedding guest dresses are becoming more popular and accepted. But the question lingers: can you wear a short dress to a wedding? The answer is yes, short dresses can definitely work for the right celebration.

To ensure that you look chic, appropriate and in harmony with your event, we've consulted a fashion expert to give you a few style guidelines to consider when opting for short dresses for weddings. We've also put together a shopping guide with our standout 12 short dresses for every dress code and type of wedding.

• Can You Wear a Short Dress to a Wedding?
• What to Consider Before Choosing a Short Dress as a Wedding Guest
• Editor-Approved Short Dresses for Wedding Guests

Can You Wear a Short Dress to a Wedding?

You can absolutely wear a cropped dress to a wedding "and there are so many short dresses for wedding guests that are definitely appropriate," says Francesca Prudente, art director at Karen Millen. "A short dress is when the hem sits above the knee," she says. However, it shouldn't be revealing. So, whether you choose a fitted sheath, fit-and-flare, flowy or pleated silhouette, "avoid going micro mini and aim for a length that reaches your fingertips, at minimum." Also, "balance out showing your legs by steering clear of any cutouts or excess cleavage," Prudente says. At the end of the day, whatever dress you pick should be elevated enough for the occasion, respectful to the to-be-weds and suitable to wear around their grandparents.

Can You Wear a Short Dress to a Formal Wedding?

If you're unsure if it's safe to wear a short dress to a formal wedding, it's important to be mindful of the couple's preferences. If you're in doubt, it's always a good idea to look at the invite and wedding website for clues or ask the couple. Some may have a specific dress code and cultural or religious considerations that influence what's appropriate to wear.

Once you are given the green light to go short, understanding which styles work for each type of dress code is crucial. You're probably wondering, can you wear a short dress to a formal wedding? For black-tie weddings, typically, long gowns are expected, but a very upscale dress slightly above the knee can work, especially rich color or embellished style. "A tuxedo dress is also a great option if you prefer more minimal, tailored pieces," says Prudente. If your event calls for formal wedding attire, try a short cocktail dress for weddings. For any high-end or formal dress, "opt for luxe fabrics like lace, chiffon and silk to add an element of sophistication to the dress," says Prudente.

What About Semi-Formal Weddings? Cocktail? Casual?

A semi-formal or cocktail wedding is the ideal setting for a fashionable, short dress. This dress code gives you more opportunity to "express your personal style with a wider range of color and fabric choices. You can even choose a fun pattern." Just avoid relaxed fabrics like linen or cotton. If the invite says 'casual', a short dress is likely the most acceptable outfit for this laid-back affair. If the nuptials are exceptionally casual, you can even wear a dressy casual sundress. However, keep it tasteful and "don't wear anything bodycon or for the beach," Prudente says.

What to Consider Before Choosing a Short Dress as a Wedding Guest

Once you narrow down the type of dress you need (based on formality), take the time of day, venue and season into account. "These factors can significantly influence your outfit choice," Prudente says. They will also affect how comfortable you feel in your outfit and ensure that you won't look out of place in photos.

• Time: While black is always an acceptable color to wear at any time of day, daytime weddings are a great opportunity to wear brighter colors and punchy patterns. For the evening, go with deeper hues, jewel tones and textured fabrics, like sequins.
• Venue: A dress on the shorter side might be more suitable for an outdoor garden wedding, beach ceremony or casual venue. For a wedding in a place of worship or a more formal setting, be sure that the hemline is long enough.
• Season: In the summer, "go with floaty fabrications, like linen and cotton, that are breathable but still premium," says Prudente. During colder months, opt for heavier fabrics like velvet or crepe and layer on an elegant wrap, shawl or jacket.

Editor-Approved Short Dresses for Wedding Guests

We've done our research and found the most fabulous short dresses to wear to a wedding from some of the trendiest retailers, including ASOS, Lulus and Revolve. In this shopping guide, we'll cover every type of short gown—with different lengths, silhouettes and fabrics to suit every type of personal style, formality and season.

ASOS Edition Curve Organza Long Sleeve Embroidered Tie Back Mini Dress

Photo: ASOS

You'll secure the best-dressed title in this embroidered LBD that's just fancy enough for a cocktail dress code. We love the dress' delicate details, like sheer exaggerated sleeves and a tie back detail.

Mac Duggal Long Sleeve High Neck Ruffle Sleeve Sheer Top Mini Dress

Photo: Mac Duggal

If the dress code is formal and modest, this floral outfit offers the perfect amount of coverage without being dowdy. Plus, the high neckline and ruffle sleeves are right on trend.

Trina Turk Shinrin Dress

Photo: Rent the Runway

You'll stand out amongst other guests thanks to this dress' unique cape detail and bold red hue. Style it with simple stilettos or pumps and its classy enough for a black-tie event.

Nadine Merabi Kimberly Dress

Photo: Nadine Merabi

Heading to a formal ceremony? You won't need to wear jewelry due to this dress' striking crystal-embellished trim and luxe velvet fabric. During the winter, pair it with sheer black tights for a sleek finish.

Lulus Deeply Glamorous Gold Plisse Strapless Drop Waist Mini Dress

Photo: Lulus

Get ready to dance the night away in this shimmery strapless number that's floaty enough to move with you. The dress' unique corset structure is sure to earn you lots of compliments at any semi-formal occasion.

Self-Portrait Blue Lace Diamante Bow Mini Dress

Photo: Self-Portrait

If your style tends to be more girly and feminine, this sweet lace mini, that's covered in rhinestone accents is for you. Wear it to a semi-formal church wedding, where your shoulders and back need to be covered.

Karen Millen Paisley Viscose Woven Puff Sleeve Mini Dress

Photo: Karen Millen

You'll radiate beachy vibes in this floral sundress that's an excellent option for destination weddings. Even though the tropical print is laid-back, the dress' puff sleeves and ruched bust keep it elevated. Style it up with flashy earrings and statement sandals for a casual or semi-formal beach wedding.

Eloquii One Shoulder Mini With Rhinestones

Photo: Eloquii

You can't go wrong with a sequined LBD for formal or black-tie affairs. This one-shoulder style has a stunning sequin fabric and statement rhinestones that are ideal for winter weddings. A faux fur black shawl or coat will complete your ensemble.

Sachin & Babi Samira Dress

Photo: Sachin & Babi

Forget the standard LBD and break out of the mold in a neon fit-and-flare dress that will shine bright for a summery function. Thanks to the luxe, high-shine fabric, it's best suited for a semi-formal or formal wedding.

Tadashi Shoji Sigan Bow-Shoulder Dress

Photo: Tadashi Shoji

If you need a short dress for a conservative dress code, this pink one-shouldered option has a longer hemline than most. You won't feel any less on-trend in it though, thanks to the bubblegum pink color, sheer lace waistband and exaggerated shoulder bow.

BHLDN Aubree Stretch Crepe Ruched Square-Neck Mini Dress

Photo: Anthropologie

This versatile dress from Anthropologie is a winner for effortlessly chic attire, thanks to its minimal, flattering silhouette. With black accessories, it totally works for an evening dressy casual wedding.

Milly Ally Cocktail Dress

Photo: Milly

If you're looking for a classic option that's guaranteed to stand the test of time, this navy number will live in your closet for seasons to come. Also, the off-the-shoulder silhouette and knee-grazing hemline is elegant enough for a black-tie occasion.