As a petite woman, I can pretty safely say that I've experienced all the pros and cons that come with my stature. Sure, I might not be able to see over the crowd at a concert, but I know I'm the one having the last laugh when there's always ample legroom on a long-haul flight or cross-country train journey.
While there are some issues I have just learned to accept (reaching the top shelf of the kitchen cupboards is a losing battle), there are other realities I refuse to give up on. One such example is finding well-fitting clothing. Thankfully, with every passing year, there seem to be more and more options for women who stand below 5'4", which, by the way, is a large percentage of the British female population, as the average height of women in the UK is actually 5'3".
From beloved high-street brands like ASOS to in-demand contemporary labels like Reformation, now more than ever, there are labels catering specifically to those of us on the shorter side. And better yet, they're making clothes we actually want to wear.
With summer officially here, I made it my duty to track down the best petite pieces available online now to bring you a concise edit of warm-weather essentials to cover you for every occasion, from pretty midi dresses to easy linen trousers, cute skirts and smart tailoring. Keep scrolling for my favourite petite summer shopping picks.
A Complete Summer Shopping Guide for Petite Women
The Best Summer Dresses for Petites
A white midi dress will never fail for summer.
Such a nice tomato red.
Not specifically petite, but I tried this style on recently (pictured above) and it sits at a great length on the leg for petites. Plus, it has an adjustable neckline.
Such an effortless piece.
It's a best seller for obvious reasons.
Can't beat a bit of brown for summer.
The Best Summer Trousers for Petites
I just know I'd wear these on repeat with a white tank top.
I adooore these as a really fun styling item for summer. Just throw them on with a white shirt and flip flops and voila!
The perfect warm-weather trousers to wear with chunky sandals.
It's so good to have a great pair of smart white trousers in your arsenal for summer.
So affordable.
Really easy to wear with ballet pumps or loafers.
The Best Summer Skirts and Shorts for Petites
Finally a slip skirt that will actually fit.
Shorts are a great option for petites, and these start at size 4.
Those of you with boho style, rejoice!
Every summer wardrobe needs a pair of denim shorts.
A maxi skirt that won't drown you.
You'll reach for these all season
The Best Summer Tops and Jackets For Petites
Your new favourite tank top. You're welcome.
So chic.
Such a pretty top.
Pair with smart separates for work, and throw over dresses for occasions.
I love the shorter length of this on trend waistcoat.
The Best Summer Jeans for Petites
Your new favourite pair of jeans
Not technically petite, but these cropped style will serve you well.
It's so rare to find relaxed jeans specifically for petites.
It's so hard to find trend-led pieces like barrel-leg jeans that fit correctly. But that's what I'm here for!
So classic, you'll wear these all year round.
Another cropped pair that you'll love.
The Best Summer Occasionwear for Petites
This one has a party at the back.
This suit is a great summer workwear (or wedding-guest) option.
This comes in petite, regular and long lengths.
This would be great for summer events like Wimbledon or the races.
How sweet is this?
For all your black tie events!
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I'm a 5'0" Fashion Editor—These Are the Pants and Jeans I Never Have to HemPetite shopper approved.
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I'm 5'2" and Hate Baggy Jeans on Me—28 Pants, Skirts, and Shorts I'd Wear InsteadPetite women, listen up.
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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.
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Goodbye, Boring Basics—This Is the Elegant Trend New Yorkers Are Wearing With Tank Tops This SummerObsessed.
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3 Aesthetic Pairings to Try If Your Wardrobe's Starting to Feel StaleFoolproof solutions.
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I Can't Stand It When People Follow These Fashion Rules to a TIt's time to break the rules.
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10 Style Tips That Will Make You Look Rich This SummerNumber four is already trending.
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Brand Layering: The Art of Knowing Which Labels to Pair With Each OtherThe ultimate styling hack.
