Who What Wear contributor Monikh is 5'1" .
As someone who is but an inch away (I'm 5'4") from being classed as 'petite', I know the struggle all too well when it comes to finding a dress. Minis can become knee-length, midis venture into maxi territory, and maxis, well, maxis are often floor-sweepers. There's no denying that it's tricky. And while well-fitting styles can sometimes be snapped up in 'regular' collections, it's often best for people 5'3" and under to head to the specialist petite sections.
With so many brands— including Reformation, Warehouse, Nobody's Child and Asos— all excelling in petite dresses, I took it upon myself to have a good search for the very best dresses for those who are slightly shorter. What did I find? A sequin dress you'll want to swish around in all party season, a variety of black dresses and a whole host of versatile knitted styles.
Keep scrolling to shop my pick of the best petite party dresses, and hopefully you'll discover some lesser-known brands to add to your shopping lists.
Shop Best Petite Dresses
This LBD will be the plus one to any upcoming party.
I'm fully obsessed with this velvet LBD.
Finally, a maxi dress that won't drag on the floor.
Ruby red is always a go-to at this time of year.
Just wait until you see the back.
For a more casual party, this knit dress with work.
Many of Abercrombie's dresses come in petite lengths.
You'll most likely find any excuse to wear this embellished maxi.
A sleek day to night style.
Just add heeled boots.
A knit dress is so versatile across all seasons.
Hello, Christmas party dress.
A little sparkle will always fit the bill.
Winter 2023 is defined by brown shades.
A standout piece that is sure to turn heads.
You can't beat a versatile black dress.
A tea dress is the perfect throw-on-and-go style if you don't want to be super dressy.
Just add an oversized biker and boots.
You could also wear this to a winter wedding.
Karen Millen's partywear selection is so strong right now.
You'll find every excuse to wear this.
Next up, The WWW Gift Guide: 58 Chic Buys We'd Love to Open Ourselves
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
-
I'm a 5'0" Fashion Editor—These Are the Pants and Jeans I Never Have to HemPetite shopper approved.
-
I'm 5'2" and Hate Baggy Jeans on Me—28 Pants, Skirts, and Shorts I'd Wear InsteadPetite women, listen up.
-
Believe Me—You'll Still Want These 36 Items in 2026 (and '27 and '28)Timeless with a capital T.
-
Don't Pack Up Your Sweaters Just Yet—Cool Fashion People Are Repurposing Them in the Chicest Way for SummerAll the outfit inspiration is inside.
-
Goodbye, Boring Basics—This Is the Elegant Trend New Yorkers Are Wearing With Tank Tops This SummerObsessed.
-
3 Aesthetic Pairings to Try If Your Wardrobe's Starting to Feel StaleFoolproof solutions.
-
I Can't Stand It When People Follow These Fashion Rules to a TIt's time to break the rules.
-
10 Style Tips That Will Make You Look Rich This SummerNumber four is already trending.
