Are Adelaide Brides Still Doing a Second Look? Why I’m Slowly Growing Our Mini Wedding Dress Collection
If you’re wondering whether second looks are still happening, I think YES! They absolutely are. And not just for the sake of a trend. Brides are choosing to change into something shorter, lighter, or just more them because it feels right…..and fun. I did it for my wedding, mainly to relax, but also because I wanted a fresh set of photos in my mini and it was totally worth it.
At Imagine Bridal, I’ve been quietly building out our collection of mini wedding dresses over time. It’s something I’ve noticed more and more brides asking for, whether it’s for the dancefloor, a civil ceremony, a hens night or just to slip into something fun and different after the formal photos are done.
We’re a small boutique in Adelaide, right on the Payneham Road bridal strip, and everything we do is quite intentional. I don’t rush to stock everything under the sun. I prefer to find pieces that I know will really suit the brides I see walk through our doors. That’s especially true when it comes to minis.
Why I Love Minis for the Right Bride
There’s something incredibly cool about a bride in a mini dress. It’s effortless, unexpected, and honestly, so practical. You’re not dragging around metres of fabric, you’re free to move, and you get to bring a different energy to the second part of your day.
I also love that minis have such range, from sleek and minimal to dramatic or glitzy. Whether you're keeping things low-key or planning a full-on party, there’s a version that works.
What Our Price Range Looks Like
Our mini range is small but growing. Here’s how it’s shaping up so far:
Off the Rack Minis — $500 to $1000
These are ideal if you're on a shorter timeline or want a second dress you can take home that same day. We’ve got options that are fitted, floaty, feathered and fun.
Made to Order Minis — $1900 to $2500
If you’ve got more time and want something more custom, these pieces are made just for you. We can work with different fabrics, sleeves, lengths and embellishments to shape the look you’re after.
Designers You’ll Find in Our Mini Range
I’ve curated our minis from a few key designers I trust and love:
Trish Peng
Clean, modern, and always beautiful on the body. Perfect for brides who want to feel feminine without being too traditional.
Olya Mak
A bit more fashion-forward, think a bit of edge and dramatic over-skirts.
Delilah Belle
This is Australian label, and it’s the most flexible when it comes to making a mini truly your own. Designed up the coast in Queensland, Delilah Belle is all about custom touches, detachable sleeves, sheer panels, corsetry, bows… you name it. If you’ve got a vision, we can usually bring it to life.
You can see what’s currently available here: Mini Wedding Dress Gallery
Some Reasons You Might Want a Mini
Here’s when a mini makes sense for a lot of the brides I work with:
You’re doing a second look for the reception
You’re eloping, getting married overseas, or planning something super relaxed
You’ve got a registry ceremony
You want to show off your legs (let’s be real)
You want something you could wear again, not just once
I’ll be honest…. I don’t think a second look is essential, but I do think it’s fun, freeing, and often a smart choice. Especially in an Australian summer, or if you’ve chosen a dress that’s a bit more formal for the first half of the day.
Come Visit Us in Adelaide
If this sounds like something you’re thinking about, come in and try a few. We’re tucked into the Payneham Road bridal strip and offer completely private appointments, no sharing the space, no rush.
Whether you’re still deciding or already know you want something short, I’d love to help you find the one that feels right.
Book an appointment online and come try on the minis in person.
Sal x
Owner of Imagine Bridal