Best Petite Wedding Guest Dresses 2024 - 9 Well-Fitting Gowns We Love - Wear Next. (2024)

Excited for a wedding but struggling to find the perfect dress as a petite? If you happen to be under 5″4, I’m sure you know better than anyone that finding fashionable yet suitable dresses to fit your frame is no easy feat.

With all the progress we’ve made towards size inclusivity, petite women still struggle to find clothes that fit properly without needing to take a trip to the tailor. There are still few brands that match both your style and size perfectly, but that’s no reason not to try.

In fact, I’ve found 9 amazing wedding guest dresses made just for petite frames. I hate to blow my own trumpet, but I think I’ve smashed it.

Hold up. Before we get into that, I’ve also got some answers to all your possible questions, so let’s dive right in! Next, read and explore wedding dress inspirations by discovering these beautiful options at Massimo Dutti, Zara and ASOS.

Contents hide

1 Can a petite person wear a midi dress?

2 Where should a dress fall on a petite woman?

4 Petites Nadira Dress by Reformation

5 Petite Maxi Dress with Long Sleeve by ASOS

6 Petite Soft Tailored Colour Block Tie Neck Midi Dress by Karen Millen

8 Petite Premium Lace Midi Dress by Oasis

9 Petite Black Floral Puff Sleeve Bonnie Midi Dress by Nobody’s Child

10 Petite Glossy Leopard Midi Dress by Whistles

11 Petite Spot Satin Halter Neck Backless Maxi Dress by Warehouse

12 Crochet Mix Emma Dress Petite by Never Fully Dressed

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Can a petite person wear a midi dress?

If you’re a petite person wondering if a midi dress is suitable for you, there’s no need! The world is your oyster, and there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to styling midi dresses.

Try opting for a midi dress that stops above the calf – this will accentuate your pins and create the illusion of height, rather than drowning your figure in swathes of fabric.

Wearing heels also offers height, and it’s always a good idea to opt for a dress that’s catered to petite frames so it doesn’t hit the floor.

Where should a dress fall on a petite woman?

To flatter a petite figure in a dress, aim for a length that gracefully hovers around the ankle.

For a flowing maxi dress, pick a length that lands somewhere between your ankle and the top of your foot.

One way to balance out a long dress is by pairing it with heels, which can add height and help elongate your legs. Just be sure to choose a pair that are comfortable and easy to walk in, so you can enjoy the day (and night) without any discomfort.

Is it OK to wear a short dress as a wedding guest?

Whether or not it’s okay to wear a short dress as a wedding guest depends on how formal the wedding is. If it’s a casual, co*cktail, or semi-formal event, a short dress would be totally appropriate and you can rock it with confidence.

However, if it’s a black tie, white tie, or formal affair, it’s best to opt for a formal midi or maxi-length gown.

Having said that, it’s usually fine to wear a short dress. Perhaps ask the bride and/or groom first!

Now, check out these summer wedding guest dresses that are just right for petite girlies

Petites Nadira Dress by Reformation

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Petites Nadira Dress, £298, Reformation – buy now

This romantic countryside midi dress features a sweetheart neckline and a delicate floral print. The adjustable tie straps and back smocking ensure a perfect fit for your petite frame, while the relaxed skirt guarantees comfort and ease of movement. This dress is perfect for a summer wedding with a relaxed, bohemian vibe.

Petite Maxi Dress with Long Sleeve by ASOS

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Petite maxi dress with long sleeve with circle trim and embellishment, £79, ASOS – buy now

This maxi dress is all about making a statement. The bold volume sleeves and tiered skirt exude confidence and glamour, while the V-neck and button-down closure add a touch of versatility. Dress it up with heels for a formal event or keep it casual with sandals for a backyard wedding.

Petite Soft Tailored Colour Block Tie Neck Midi Dress by Karen Millen

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Petite Soft Tailored Colour Block Tie Neck Midi Dress, now £143.20, Karen Millen – buy now

This sophisticated midi dress is perfect for the minimalist chic guest. The clean lines, one-shoulder design, and pop of color with the tie neck create a modern and elegant look. The split side skirt adds a touch of sexiness, while the expert tailoring ensures a perfect fit for your petite frame.

Printed Round Neck Midaxi Tea Dress by M&S

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Printed Round Neck Midaxi Tea Dress, now £39.50, M&S – buy now

This charming tea dress is a great choice for a summer wedding with a vintage or whimsical vibe. The playful print, swishy skirt, and gathering details add a touch of personality to your look, while the comfortable round neckline and easy regular fit ensure you’ll be dancing the night away in style.

Petite Premium Lace Midi Dress by Oasis

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Petite Premium Lace Midi Dress, £63, Oasis – buy now

This simple yet elegant midi dress is a timeless classic. The delicate lace overlay adds a touch of femininity, while the comfortable fit and midi length make it perfect for all-day wear. This dress is a great choice for a formal wedding or any occasion where you want to look polished and put-together.

Petite Black Floral Puff Sleeve Bonnie Midi Dress by Nobody’s Child

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Petite Black Floral Puff Sleeve Bonnie Midi Dress, £55, Nobody’s Child – buy now

This black midi dress with its puff sleeves and botanical print is perfect for the vintage lover. The responsible viscose fabric makes it a sustainable choice, while the curved waist seam and round neck flatter your figure. Dress it up with heels for a formal event or keep it casual with trainers for a day at the races.

Petite Glossy Leopard Midi Dress by Whistles

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Petite Glossy Leopard Midi Dress, £95, Whistles – buy now

This vibrant purple leopard print dress is sure to make a statement at any summer wedding. The V-neck and long sleeves make it perfect for layering, while the easy midi length and comfortable fit ensure you’ll be dancing the night away in style. Pair it with leather jackets and boots for a fall wedding or sandals for a summer celebration.

Petite Spot Satin Halter Neck Backless Maxi Dress by Warehouse

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Petite Spot Satin Halter Neck Backless Maxi Dress, now£95.20, Warehouse – buy now

This glamorous maxi dress is perfect for the showstopper guest. The satin fabric, halterneck design, and backless silhouette exude luxury and sophistication. The playful polka dot print adds a touch of fun, while the flowing skirt guarantees you’ll twirl the night away.

Crochet Mix Emma Dress Petite by Never Fully Dressed

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Crochet Mix Emma Dress Petite, £129, Never Fully Dressed – buy now

This unique dress is perfect for a beach wedding or any summer celebration with a relaxed vibe. The contrast between the heavy satin maxi and the light crochet top is eye-catching and stylish. The dramatic blouson sleeves add a touch of drama, while the V-neckline and body-skimming silhouette flatter your figure.

Best Petite Wedding Guest Dresses 2024 - 9 Well-Fitting Gowns We Love - Wear Next. (2024)

FAQs

What should a 75 year old woman wear to a wedding? ›

Pantsuits, jumpsuits, and dresses are appropriate choices for casual weddings. Women over 60 can choose knee-length, tea-length, or full-length dresses for most wedding themes. A full-length gown is the most suitable choice for formal or black-tie events.

What dress is too short for a wedding? ›

Mini dresses that fall above mid-thigh are typically too short for weddings, even casual ones. Aim for a length that hits just above or below the knee.

What does a 50 year old wear to a wedding? ›

Wear Something Dressy and Party-Like

Plus, when you look good, you feel good and everything is much more fun! Aim for something dressy and party-like, heck even a little glamorous. The easiest way know how formal you should dress to check the dress code on the wedding invitation.

What length dress is best for a wedding guest? ›

Women wedding guests should wear full-length dresses, be it a ballgown, a sheath or an A-line dress. High heels are strongly recommended.

What should a 70 year old wear? ›

In your 70s, it's a good rule of thumb to avoid looking too prim, too girly, or preppy. However, it's the perfect time to experiment with arty styles like tailored sweater coats, wide-leg pants, unusual clutches, and colorful patterns.

What should a 60 year old woman wear? ›

For durability, versatility and pure comfort, it's hard to beat the breezy sophistication of breathable fabrics like cotton, linen and chambray. Lightweight blends are a perfect base for a minimalist wardrobe for a 65-year-old woman. Beyond comfort, these textiles have a beautiful drape and flow on the body.

How short is too short for wedding guest? ›

These weddings are usually formal or black tie style weddings, or very traditional religious weddings where you could be going to a place of worship if you have been invited for the ceremony. For these situations it's best to choose a wedding guest dress that is below the knee.

How short is too short for a dress? ›

Stay around the knee.

Right below, at, or right above the knee is the perfect length for a dress or a skirt at work. Going shorter is when you get into trouble, obviously it can be done but it's tricky, and going longer than right below the knee (like mid calf, ankle, and maxi) tends to get a bit dowdy.

What length of dress is too short? ›

The Dress Code

This may mean they're only 1 inch above your knee. If your office doesn't have a dress code, make sure to still follow the rule of thumb of 2 inches above the knee as looking professional always suits your best interests.

What should an older woman wear to a formal wedding? ›

Knee Length – Just right at the knee, this dress style is most flattering for older women. Choose a dress length that is just above the knee to create the illusion of length on your frame while being age-appropriate. Midi Length – This is the right length if you prefer not to show your knee.

What do older brides wear on their head? ›

Side tiaras can work well, particularly in short hair. Birdcage veils definitely work well but steer clear of cutesy bows. Either a beaded or embellished centre of elegant sculpted feathers work well. Bridal fascinators work well though you need to be careful about colour.

What should I wear when I go out over 50? ›

Our top 5 style tips for what to wear at 50
  • Embrace color. While you can never go wrong with a dependable neutral color, bright and bold hues add excitement to your closet. ...
  • Invest in luxe knits. ...
  • Play up your waistline. ...
  • Find your perfect fit. ...
  • Chic loafers. ...
  • A smart blazer.
Feb 15, 2024

What should female guest wear to a wedding? ›

Simply put, women should wear a formal, floor-length evening gown—no exceptions—with jewelry, heels, and an elegant clutch. Men are required to wear a tuxedo with tails, a formal white shirt, a vest, a bow tie, white or gray gloves, and formal footwear, such as derby shoes or oxfords.

What are the best colors to wear to a wedding? ›

Neutral shades are timeless options that won't detract from the wedding's formal atmosphere. For a more colorful look, consider wearing shades of blue, lavender, or pink to show that you're in the celebratory spirit. If the wedding is in a tropical destination, opt for colors like yellow, orange, and green.

What is elegant dress code for ladies? ›

A midi or mini party dress styled with heeled sandals, a clutch bag can create an elegant look. If the occasion is slightly more formal, a long party dress would be appropriate too paired with silver or gold jewellery.

What is co*cktail attire for wedding for older woman? ›

co*cktail dresses generally refer to shorter dresses with a semi-formal feel (think knee-length or mini), but midi dresses or more casual maxi dresses can work too.

What should grandmothers wear to granddaughter's wedding? ›

A full-length gown isn't required attire for your grandmother to wear at your wedding. A great co*cktail dress goes everywhere and anywhere. Grandmothers often prefer the ease of the shorter hemline. These dresses are perfect for daytime or casual weddings, all the way to a formal evening affair.

How should an elderly woman dress? ›

Keep your skirt and dress lengths to the knee or slightly above. Flowy dresses look best if they are mid-calf length. Steer clear of cropped pants — they were an unflattering fashion fad for way too long. Don't show too much skin: too-short skirts and tops that are too low don't flatter anyone.

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