Summer is here and it’s time to cut off the long sleeves of your sweaters, wait don’t do that, let’s update your wardrobe with some chic and comfortable dresses instead.
As I know from experience, finding the perfect petite summer dress can be a challenge.
That’s why I’ve rounded up the best petite dresses for summer that will make you look and feel amazing. Whether you’re looking for something casual or dressy, I’ve got you covered.
Get ready to rock the summer in style with my top picks for petite dresses and tips to shopping for the right fit!
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Summer is the perfect time to show off your smaller frame in a stylish dress.
Dresses are great since they really can be effortless style, but when it comes to petite dresses, there are many options to choose from, including sundresses, maxi dresses, and wrap dresses.
Look for dresses with a defined waistline and a length that hits just above the knee to elongate your legs.
Light and breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen will keep you cool on hot summer days.
Don’t be afraid to play with prints and colors to add some fun to your summer wardrobe. With the right dress, you’ll be ready for all the warmer days ahead.
6 Tips for finding the best petite dresses
- Look for brands that specialize in petite sizes
- Check the size chart carefully and measure yourself to ensure a good fit
- Consider dresses with simple designs and minimal patterns to avoid overwhelming your frame
- Look for dresses with waistlines that sit higher to create the illusion of longer legs
- Try on dresses with different hemlines to find the most flattering length for your height
- Don’t be afraid to have dresses altered for a perfect fit
The best places to shop for Petite Summer Dresses
I tend to stick to a few places where I find that they make pieces that are the right fit for smaller frames.
Top favorite stores to shop for petite dresses
Stores with petite clothing specific departments and dedicated petite ranges:
The best summer dresses for petites
I can safely say that I wear dresses pretty much the majority of summer! Dresses are the perfect summer attire for several reasons.
Firstly, they are lightweight and breezy, allowing for better airflow and keeping you cool in the hot weather.
Secondly, they come in a variety of styles, ranging from casual sundresses to elegant maxi dresses, making them versatile for any occasion.
Additionally, dresses are easy to wear and require minimal effort to put together an outfit, making them a go-to choice for those hot, lazy summer days.
Lastly, they are a fun and feminine fashion statement that can boost your confidence and make you feel fabulous.
A few dress styles that I love are smocked dresses, flare dresses, maxi dresses and short casual dresses.
These styles are especially flattering on short women and can help elongate the body while highlighting curves in all the right places.
It’s important to also consider the fit and length of the dress to ensure a comfortable and flattering look. Here are some of my favorite styles to wear in the Summer:
Petite Friendly Short Summer Dress Styles
The best short summer dresses for petites
When looking for short dresses for petite women, try to find styles that elongate your legs and don’t overwhelm your frame.
Look for dresses with high waistlines, vertical stripes, and shorter hemlines. A-line and shift dresses are also great options.
Don’t be afraid to try on different styles to see what works best for your body type.
Oversized Mini Dress
An oversized mini dress can be a great choice for a petite frame because it provides a comfortable and relaxed fit without overwhelming your figure.
The loose fit can also create the illusion of height, making you appear taller.
Additionally, the simplicity of the t-shirt dress can be easily dressed up or down, making it a versatile piece for any occasion.
TEE-SHIRT DRESS
A T-Shirt dress can be a good choice for a petite frame because it can accentuate your curves and create the illusion of a longer silhouette.
The fitted style can also create a streamlined look that flatters your figure. This style in particular is super flattering on with the tie waist!
Finish with a cute pair of sneakers or strappy sandals to show off your legs even more.
Flowy A-line Dress
A flowy a-line dress is a good choice for a petite woman because it accentuates the waist and creates the illusion of longer legs.
The dress also flows away from the body, creating a graceful and feminine silhouette.
Look for styles like this when you are looking for more of a dressed up look. This would also work well with a cute pair of sneakers for a causal summer day.
Puff Sleeve Mini Dress
Look for a dress with a fitted top that flares out at the waist as it’s the perfect style for a petite frame.
This can help accentuate your curves while also creating a flattering silhouette.
Smocked Waist Dress
A smocked waist dress is a great choice for petite women in the summer.
The smocked waistline creates a flattering, cinched silhouette, and the lightweight fabric is perfect for staying cool in the heat.
Look for dresses with shorter hemlines to accentuate your petite frame.
The best midi and maxi summer dresses for petites:
When shopping for a mid length or petite maxi dresses, look for styles that have a defined waistline or a high waist to help elongate your legs.
Avoid dresses that are too loose or baggy, as they can overwhelm a petite frame. Additionally, consider hemming the dress to ensure a proper fit.
High heels help give me some length, but flats would be cute as well for a more casual look. Add a denim jacket draped over the shoulders for the cool mornings or evenings.
Midi or Maxi Dress with Slit
When wearing a longer length dress, I love to opt for a style that has a slit.
A midi dress with a slit helps elongate a petite frame by creating a visual line that draws the eye up and down the body, making the wearer appear taller.
The slit also adds movement and flow to the dress, which can create the illusion of height.
A dress with a slit can be great for summer because it allows for more airflow and ventilation, keeping you cool and comfortable.
Additionally, it can add a touch of elegance and femininity to your summer wardrobe while still being practical for warmer weather.
Puff Sleeve Midi Dress
A puff sleeve midi dress can be flattering for petite women because it creates the illusion of broader shoulders and a smaller waist, giving the appearance of a more balanced and proportionate silhouette.
Additionally, the midi length can elongate the legs while the puff sleeves add some volume to the upper body.
I always love dresses that cinch in the waist like this while having the larger sleeve as it feels elevated and so flattering.
Midi Slip Dress
A midi slip dress can be a great fit for petite women in the summer.
Look for one with a lightweight fabric and a length that falls below the knee but above the ankle to elongate your frame. You may also want to consider a style with adjustable straps for a better fit.
Slip dresses are great for summer because they are light, breezy, and comfortable to wear in hot weather.
They are also versatile and easy to dress up or down, making them perfect for any occasion.
Additionally, slip dresses are usually made from breathable fabrics that allow air to circulate, keeping you cool and comfortable throughout the day. A really easy way to get that classic style look.
Off Shoulder Maxi Dress
An off-shoulder dress is a great option for petite women in the summer as it is super flattering.
Look for a dress with a fitted waist to avoid overwhelming your frame.
Don’t forget to choose a fabric that will keep you cool in the summer heat, like cotton or linen. This is a great option for Summer events or date nights as well.
Puff Sleeve Maxi Dress
A puff sleeve maxi dress can be a great option for petite women as it adds volume and drama to the upper body, while the long length elongates the figure.
Look for styles with a defined waist and a flowy skirt to balance proportions. Avoid overwhelming the frame with too much fabric and opt for smaller prints or solid colors.
I love this dress above with the puff sleeves as it is so flattering.
This is another great feature to look for in dresses if you are wanting to make a statement for a special occasion!
If you are looking for a fun/bold option for a Summer event look, look for for a bold colored puff sleeve maxi dress.
Tiered Maxi Dress
A tiered maxi dress is a great option for women with a petite frame because it adds volume and dimension to the silhouette, making them appear taller and more elongated.
The tiers also help to create the illusion of curves, giving the body a more proportional look.
Additionally, the flowy and airy nature of the dress provides a comfortable and flattering fit.
