Summer: we look forward to its arrival all winter long, but then it comes and suddenly we’re entirely ill-prepared.
We rush to purchase fans and air conditioning units, add blackout curtains to virtual baskets and load up on all the hayfever remedies that we can find. Then there’s our wardrobes. Filled to the brim with chunky knits, boots at every height and jeans in an array of colours, yet sorely lacking the kind of lightweight garments these elevated temperatures require.
Summer dressing is hard enough (what sort of outfit can withstand 30-degree heat yet still be work appropriate?), but throw in the added struggle of needing fits outside the conventional sizing norms and it’s a full-on nightmare.
For petite readers - those 5ft3 and under - dresses are your best bet. Well actually, they’re ideal for everyone. Frocks are a one-and-done situation that requires blissfully little time, energy or thought, while still somehow making you look as though you have your stuff together.
With labels like ASOS, Abercrombie and Nobody’s Child offering dedicated Petite collections, it’s easier than ever to fill your arsenal with effortlessly chic dresses that will take you from boardroom to beach, pub to party. They come at all lengths; mini, midi and maxi sitting just right for shorter frames.
Outfit inspo incoming.
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Best petite midi dresses to buy now for the spring and summer season
Abercrombie Satin High-Slit Midi Dress
From the slinky satin fabric to the cornflower blue hue, this sumptuous midi slip will help you usher in the warmer weather. It’s made from a quality fabric and comes in an array of colours and patterns.
Buy now £100.00, Abercrombie
Nobody’s Child Petite Orange Gingham Check Sandra Midi Dress
Gingham and summer go hand in hand; you really can’t have one without the other. Make the pattern all the more warm weather-ready with this vibrant orange shade from Nobody’s Child.
Buy now £75.00, Nobody’s Child
Nasty Gal Petite One Shoulder Stitchy Knit Dress
Whether your summer diary is filled with festivals or flights to far-flung destinations, you’ll want this one-shoulder boho style in your clothing arsenal.
Buy now £36.75, Nasty Gal
ASOS DESIGN Petite strappy maxi dress with twist detail in chilli red
This universally flattering red hue will add a dramatic flair to your summer jaunts. This is only enhanced by the twist detail and pin-flashing thigh-high slit.
Buy now £28.00, ASOS
Abercrombie Ruffle Strap Smocked Midi Dress
What do you wear to work during a heatwave? Getting dressed in high heat temperatures, while looking vaguely office appropriate is a fine balance - and one that this midi dress takes in its stride. Available in black as well as more playful patterns and colourways.
Buy now £92.00, Abercrombie
Nobody’s Child Harper Ditsy Petite Serena Long Sleeve Mini Dress
The long-sleeves makes this a demure ditsy floral dress, but in a mini cut, you’re able to bask in the sunshine. Best of all, when winter returns once again, pair with tights and knee high boots to make it an all-weather staple.
Buy now £25.00, Nobody’s Child
Noisy May Petite ruffle strap mini slip dress in pink ditsy print
Pretty in pink and a floral print to boot, this mini slip dress has a throw-on-and-go quality whether you’re picnicking in the park or in a last minute packing panic.
Buy now £16.00, ASOS
Glamorous Petite ruched bust cami mini dress in red floral
Remove sartorial stress from your morning routine by having mini dresses like this option from Glamorous lining your wardrobe. Pair with sandals or trainers, depending on the occasion, and you have an easy win for the warm weather.
Buy now £36.00, ASOS
Warehouse Petite Satin Halter Neck Backless Slip Dress
Do you have formal occasions on the horizon? Wedding guest dressing made easy, this lime green halter neck dress is something out of the ordinary colour palette-wise, yet elegant and stylish. Also available in white, red, navy and black if you’re hoping for a more pared-back hue.
Buy now £97.30, Warehouse
Warehouse Petite Checkerboard Knit Swing Dress
First introduced in the 1950s and 60s, join the retro revolution with this checkboard print that looks direct from the Swinging Sixties. Inject this geometric, vibrant and fun design for a groovy piece to wear now and cherish always.
Buy now £22.00, Warehouse
M&S Linen Rich V-Neck Midi Slip Dress
Throw over your bikini for a floaty frock to take you from the beach to the bar. Made from a lightweight linen fabric and embellished with a lively print, this is one dress you’ll want in your holiday wardrobe.
Buy now £45.00, M&S
Dorothy Perkins Petite Ditsy Tie Front Midi Dress
If, much like your winter ensembles, you like your summer wares devoid of colour, we understand and sympathise. You can still opt for playful pieces like this ditsy floral design that is in our two favourite clothing colours; black and white.
Buy now £27.30, Dorothy Perkins
QUIZ Petite Bright Orange Tie Dye Midi Dress
On the contrary if you live by the mantra that the more colour, the better, this warm tie dye style brings something different to the array of pared-back formalwear on the market.
Buy now £36.99, New Look
Dorothy Perkins Petite Ditsy Floral Tie Neck Mini Dress
Growing up in the UK, we know we have to prepare for any and all weather eventualities, which is why this dress will come in handy. While still giving summer feels with its floral print, it’s made for those transitional days when you never know what the mercurial climate will serve up.
Buy now £22.00, Dorothy Perkins
