Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships. We receive compensation when you click on a link and make a purchase. Learn more!
At 5’3”, I used to hate being short — until I learned to dress myself. I always tried to wear dresses made for taller frames, which made me look frumpy and disproportionate. Once I discovered the styles that flattered my figure, I felt more confident and even appeared much taller than I actually am. In fact, people regularly tell me now that I have ‘tall girl energy.’
My favorite silhouettes include waist-cinching midis and minis that make my legs look miles long. You’ll find 19 petite-friendly dresses for every summer occasion in this artfully curated list . Whether you want a dress to lounge in or need something for a romantic date, get ready to feel like your best, most stylish self — without splurging or slipping on 5-inch heels.
19 Petite Summer Dresses That Make Me Look Taller
Everyday Staples
1. An All-Time Favorite: T-shirt dresses are arguably better than regular tees. Just take this flowy version that is super simple yet looks incredible paired with nothing but white sneakers.
2. Old Reliable: Who wants to wear pants in the summer? Not me! I own this comfy cotton tank dress in three colors because it looks sporty, hugs all the right curves and can be worn anywhere.
3. Quiet Luxury: Channel your inner Martha Stewart with a collared maxi dress. It doesn’t have an ounce of bling, yet screams ‘I own a house in the Hamptons.’
4. Don’t Break the Bank: Between the ruffled sleeves, extra soft fabric and the hidden pockets, I would swear this casual dress was much more expensive than $15.
5. Sporty Chic: Even if you aren’t playing tennis, you’ll look like a champion with this stylish drawstring sport dress. It’s a no-fuss design that’s wonderful for running errands.
Vacation-Ready Stunners
6. On Island Time: The vibrant pattern on this boxy boho dress reminds me of a Farm Rio design, but the price point is much more budget-friendly.
7. Set Sail: This flowy, tiered halter dress looks so majestic and will be an especially stunning look for a sunset island cruise on vacation.
8. Pretty Mini: Love the neckline of the above dress, but want to show a little leg? This halter option fits the bill, and the elongating cut instnatly makes you look supermodel tall.
9. Cinch It: With its A-line cut and twisted bodice, Cupshe’s gorgeous maxi completely cinches your waist to give you an hourglass figure.
10. Bare It All: From the front, the ruched detailing and mini bubble skirt on this designer-like dress disguise your stomach. However, the open back shows off the work you’ve been putting in at the gym.
Sleek and Professional
11. She Means Business: When you show up to the office in PrettyGarden’s black, flared A-line dress, you’ll be able to close any deal while looking like a million bucks. It also layers well underneath a blazer.
12. Eyelet Action: This flared dress is incredibly versatile thanks to the intricate eyelet detailing. Wear it to the office on a hot summer day, but don’t forget to pack it for your trip to the shore!
13. Pleats for Days: The extra small pleats on this sleeveless midi add plenty of volume and movement, and when paired with heels, your legs look miles long.
14. Extra Classy: If Audrey Hepburn were still around, she’d totally wear this business-appropriate summer sweater dress, with its clean cuts and eye-catching gold buttons.
15. Small Belt, Big Effect: Petite girls can sometimes hold extra weight in their midsection (I would know), but this sophisticated number completely hides that and gives more shape thanks to the built-in belt.
A Little Bit of Romance
16. Dance The Night Away: Between the flattering halter neck, the cheeky ruffles and the dainty floral pattern, this summery mini is begging to be worn on the dance floor.
17. Upgraded Wrap Dress: Remember the iconic wrap dress? Well, it just got even more romantic with whimsical puff sleeves and an asymmetrical ruffle hem.
18. Milk Maid With a Twist: What do you get when you combine the milkmaid dress trend with cottagecore? This elegant buttoned design that blends modern and vintage detailing in a non-cheesy way.
19. All in the Slit: This pretty floral sundress goes from casual daytime essential to sultry nighttime stunner thanks to the artfully placed slit.
