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As a 5’3” shopper, I know the struggle of finding summer dresses that fit just right. Unlike my taller friends, floaty maxi styles and oversized silhouettes tend to swallow my frame, so I’ve been trying to find work-arounds for years. My secrets? Petite-friendly silhouettes that elongate, flatter and define in all the right ways.
From waist-cinching midis to leg-lengthening minis, these 17 dresses are my secret to looking taller and leaner. Whether you’re heading to brunch, the office or jet-setting on a vacation, these styles are basically an optical illusion in dress form. They’re my favorite pieces for feeling cool, confident and comfortable all season long.
17 Petite Summer Dresses That Make me Look Taller
Everyday, Casual Cuties
1. My Favorite: A go-to silhouette for me, this floral wrap dress draws attention to the waist, making the legs appear longer.
2. Has Pockets: Checking all of the boxes, this tie-waist mini creates visual balance for the silhouette — and has pockets!
3. Flattering AF: From its V-neckline to its high-waisted silhouette, this tiered midi dress makes petite frames look leaner.
4. Waist-Cinching: This belted T-shirt dress is so comfy, you’ll forget you’re wearing it.
5. Short Sleeves, Please: Slim your frame in seconds with this short-sleeve wrap dress that highlights the curves in all the right places.
For Brunch and Beyond
6. My Favorite: Feel your best at brunch in this embroidered mini dress that creates the illusion of a longer frame.
7. Zimmerman-Style: Channel designer style in this Zimmerman-looking dress that delivers shape and balance.
8. Boutique-Worthy: This boutique-style shift dress hits above the knee, which makes the legs look miles longer.
9. Pretty Puff Sleeve: This brunch-perfect poplin dress is guaranteed to garner tons of compliments.
Vacation Mode: On
10. My Favorite: Made for getaways, this floral mini sundress has a high waistline that flatters short frames beautifully.
11. Strapless Stunner: Vacation-ready and petite-approved, this smocked strapless dress comes in several tropical-inspired prints.
12. Subtle and Sexy: Turn up the heat with this floral halterneck dress that’s flirty, flattering and unforgettable.
13. Pastel Perfection: Prettiest on petites, this floral puff-sleeve dress has cut-outs that make the waist appear slimmer.
Polished and Professional
14. My Favorite: Easy and effortless, this flattering shift dress hits above the knee and screams, ‘I’m ready for anything.’
15. Belted Beauty: A summer work-mode go-to, this belted utility dress is made of 100% cotton that’ll keep you cool on the hottest summer days.
16. Rich Mom-Worthy: Channel rich mom style with this cinched waist shirtdress from Anthropologie.
17. Comfy-Meets-Chic: Made for all-day ease, this petite jersey dress has a slit for extra character points.
