I'm 5'2"—Here Are All the Petite Summer Dresses I Can Genuinely Recommend
It's not easy being petite. For all the money you spend on clothes, often you have to then fork out even more for alterations. Hemlines are too long, billowing sleeves have too much excess fabric, and don't even get me started at waistlines that usually end up sitting somewhere around your hips.
Thankfully though, there are currently several brands that are making things easier for those of us lacking a little bit of height. From Reformation to Abercrombie, Boden to ASOS, dedicated petite ranges are becoming much easier to find if you just know where to look.
Generally, I find dresses to be one of the hardest items to shop for, as there are often several different elements that can end up looking too oversize. While with a skirt, you might only have to alter the hem, dresses provide the added difficulty of potentially having to adjust the length of a bodice as well as sleeves and more. That is why today, I've taken the time to scroll through several websites in order to track down some of the best petite dresses on the market that you won't have to alter a bit. From summery cotton maxi dresses that don't drag on the floor to floral minis that will actually sit above your knee, keep scrolling for 18 petite summer dresses I genuinely recommend...
Shop My Edit of Petite Summer Dresses
This also comes in a floral blue, plain white and classic black.
I still can't believe this is from the high street.
Pretty florals are always relevant.
The botanical prints and puff sleeves are so chic.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
Next: I'm 5'2", and I've Figured Out How to Wear This Difficult Trouser Trend
Emily Dawes is an editor, stylist and writer with over 12 years in the industry. Known for impeccable taste, our readers trust her advice, especially in her top-selling column, expensive-looking high street buys. Working for Who What Wear UK since 2020, Emily has been a contributing editor, branded content editor and affiliate editor. Now, as senior shopping editor, she leads the e-commerce content strategy. After obtaining a BA in English and American Studies from Nottingham University, Emily interned at The Mail on Sunday’s YOU. As the magazine’s fashion editor, she managed the fashion team and travelled the globe to style and direct fashion editorials and celebrity cover shoots. As a freelancer, she styled Grazia cover shoots, developed brand marketing and content plans and worked with VIP clients including Elizabeth Day.
-
Sambas Aren't a Trend Anymore—They're a Staple: Here's How to Wear Them in 2025
They've become a classic.
By Yusra Siddiqui
-
5 Winter Basics to Own If You Refuse to Follow Trends
Our forever favourites.
By Drew Elovitz
-
So You Bought a Suede Bag—Here Are the Affordable Ways to Keep it Looking Brand New
Restore your prized possession to its former glory.
By Aleksija Vujicic
-
5 Ways I'm Wearing This Classic Jacket Style Now and Well Into Spring
The styling possibilities are endless.
By Anu Odugbesan
-
I'm a Petite Style Expert—These 5 Pieces Are My Capsule Wardrobe Non-Negotiables
My timeless tips.
By Remy Farrell
-
I've Been a Stylist for Over 12 Years—5 Skirt Trends I'd Highly Recommend If You're 5'3" or Under
Trust me.
By Harriet Davey
-
I Asked a Petite Fashion Expert What Winter Trends Work If You're Under 5'3''—She Said These 6
If you're 5'4" or under, take note.
By Bébhinn Campbell
-
European Women Rely on This Elegant Coat Trend to Look Polished in Winter—18 of the Best for Every Budget
A modern classic.
By Maisie Bovingdon