These are the 12 best dresses for petite women

The search for the perfect spring and summer dress is underway for those less than 5’4″. However, it is important to do thorough research in order to find the best petite dresses for you. Because petite sizing is about proportions, including shorter sleeves and hems, as well narrower shoulders. Petite dresses are perfect for petite frames, as they allow them to wear the maxi dress silhouettes that they desire.

We have created a selection of petite dresses because there are very few brands that offer petite sizes. These dresses are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for formal wear, beach vacations, or a long-awaited return at the office. Whitney Keeffe999, a Stitch Fix stylist, was also available to give us advice on how best to shop for the perfect pieces on your next shopping trip.

Shop the perfect petite dress for you.

Top Picks

Best overall: LOFT Tiered Midi Dress with Puff Sleeves at Loft.com

You can wear a seasonless day dress for any occasion. This frock in cotton from LOFT can be worn for both work and casual occasions. It can be worn with sunnies and sneakers for the former, or with ballet flats and elegant accessories for the latter. It is a great deal at a price of less than $100.

The best budget: Crinkled Maxi Cami Dress in Navy Old Navy

Old Navy is the ideal destination for small-time shoppers looking for affordable basics. This relaxed maxi dress, which retails for under $40 is the ideal choice if you want to wear it sleeveless while enjoying casual dining al fresco.

Best for Work: Ralph Lauren Stretch Cotton Shirtdress

Ralph Lauren, an American fashion designer, makes many of his elegant ready-to wear designs in small sizes in a collection called Lauren Petite. This shirt dress is made with stretch cotton and features shirring to tighten the waist. The linen version is more casual.

Most Versatile: Petite Studio Gabriella Dress

Petite Studio, a New York-based company, is a specialist in petite clothing. It only stocks petite sizes. This midi dress, which is vintage inspired, is one example of the many timeless and trendy pieces that Petite Studio offers. For a casual day on the town, you can either wear it with flat sandals or strappy sandals with a pouch bag.

Best Formal: Reformation Petites Twilight Dress

The ultimate wedding guest dress in both regular and petite sizes is made by Cult brand Reformation. The style has a fitted bodice and a loose-fitting skirt. This gives you structure and comfort. Although the petite size has a smaller waist and bust, it does not include length. This dress is also available in plus sizes.

Best LBD: Petite Studio Hepburn Dress

This classic LBD from Petite Studio will make you feel like a Hollywood star. The LBD is cut in a slim fitting fabric that molds to your body. The product page has measurements that detail the length of the piece, shoulder width, hips, waist, hips, and sleeves. This will give you an idea of how it will fit. This can be done for any piece with multiple measurements.

Ideal for date night: Reformation Sigmund Dress

This Reformation style is slim fitting and high-slit. The dress is structured without feeling too formal thanks to its subtle A-line silhouette.

Best Mini: Boden Scoop Neck Embroidered Dress

This cotton-embroidered minidress from Boden is perfect for balmy days. It’s cottagecore-inspired, with long sleeves and fitted bodices. However, it can be styled with tall espadrilles for a more feminine look.

Best Midi: Gap Smocked Midi Tank Dress

Gap understands that the foundation of any outfit is a great basic. Gap makes it easy to shop for these pieces by providing simple silhouettes such as this smocked, midi dress in regular, tall and petite sizes.

Best Maxi: 41 Hawthorn Beatriz Maxi Dress

This maxi dress from 41 Hawthorn is a great choice for floral lovers. This sleeveless dress can be worn with anything, from simple accessories and chunky sandals to a mini backpack and low-profile sneakers.

Best Shirt: Banana Republic Ramie Popover Shirt Dress

This breezy shirt dress is made for warm days. The sleeves are billowing and feature wide cuffs. A tie belt defines the waist. You may find this style too sheer, so it can be used as a cover-up for days at the beach.

Best Wrap: Banana Republic Tiered mini wrap dress

This ready-to-wear brand has been approved by A-listers such as Olivia Palermo and Meghan Markle. It is known for its timeless pieces that have an effortless chic appeal. This classic style will look great in your weekend outfit.

How to Shop for Petite Dresses

Large selection and a wide range of sizes

A wide range of sizes and many styles are available from the best petite brands. Online shopping is a great way to find a wide range of dresses than you would in-store. To confirm the length of the garment, make sure you check its measurements before ordering online. This will ensure that the garment fits perfectly on your body.

Review from people with similar body types

Look out for honest reviews that give detailed information about their experiences with the garment to help you find the right-fitting piece. These stats can be tracked easily on some websites by filtering for height, weight and build. Make sure you look for this feature to get the best advice.

What is petite sizing for clothes?

Petite is a measurement of height and not weight. This means that all sleeves, as well as inseams, will be shorter. To ensure a balanced fit, other important adjustments are made such as a wider waistline, higher armholes, narrower shoulders and the placement details.

What length is the maxi dress for petite?

Keeffe states that the length of petite maxi dresses varies from one brand to another and from style to style. It can take time and trial to find the right style and brand for you, just like with all apparel categories.