There’s so much to love about a maxi dress. Forget to shave your legs? Self-tanning disaster? No problem. Maxis are airy and effortless, easy and breezy. They’re the ultimate one-and-done outfit. Just throw on a cute pair of shoes and you're good to go.
But as short women know, it can be hard to find petite maxi dresses that aren't tripping hazards. That’s why I took the liberty of rounding up the best ankle-grazing numbers that you won't trip over. If you're thinking to yourself, "But a maxi dress will overwhelm my petite body," think again.
"I love maxi dresses on petite women because they help to elongate shorter frames," New York City-based stylist Samantha Brown previously told Shop TODAY. "For added length, add a wedge sandal underneath and keep the hemline to the floor."
From a slit style to a floral short-sleeve design, here are 21 maxi and midi styles that your tailor doesn't want you to know about!
Best maxi dresses for petite women
Prettygarden Floral Summer Dress
Reviewed as modest yet fun, this floral piece was also noted as being “the perfect fit,” according to a reviewer who is 5’1”.
Halife Casual Sleeveless Maxi Dress
With eight different colors to choose from and a “boho look and feel” according to one reviewer, it is also renowned for being true to size and color.
Old Navy Sleeveless Tassel Maxi
Praised for its color scheme and comfortability, this sleeveless option from Old Navy is noted as not having a boxy fit, something commonly seen with flowy dresses. Another added perk? It has pockets.
Nine West Strappy Wrap Ruffle Dress
Wear this and earn instant compliments on the color of this elegant number from Nine West, which has also received raves for its quality.
Old Navy Sleeveless Tie-Back Cutout Maxi Dress
“The length is good and I’m only 5’2",” one reviewer said about this light and airy dress. Available in six different prints and colors, this “comfortable” pick also has pockets.
INC International Concepts Smocked Puff Sleeve Dress
This fitted A-line dress lands right above the ankles, meaning you can show off a fun new summer shoe. With four classic colors to choose from, this dress will stand the test of time and become a go-to basic in your wardrobe.
DKNY Square Neck Maxi Dress
A more tame and fitted version of the dress before, this textured DKNY maxi dress falls right below the calves, perfect for showing off a pedicure or new platform heel.
Asos Petite Gathered Neck Maxi Dress
Throw a jean jacket over top or leave as is, this maxi will prove to be “your new go-to,” according to its description. With an open-tie back and cinched halter neckline, this dress is made with T-shirt fabric, further proving it will be your new favorite.
Asos Petite Chiffon Tie Maxi Dress
Easily paired with strappy sandals or combat boots, this light and airy chiffon maxi dress is versatile in the sense that it can serve as the perfect outfit for the office and out on the town.
Prettygarden Halter Neck Maxi Dress
In-person weddings are making a comeback. Whether you’re attending a beachside soiree or a black tie affair, you’ll be camera ready in this elegant halter dress that comes in over two dozen colors and prints.
Star Vixen Women’s Petite Short Sleeve Twist-Front Maxi
Take a walk on the wild size in this polyester and spandex twist-front maxi.
Asos Nobody's Child Petite Charlie Dress
With a pattern that screams summer, this puff-sleeve maxi dress is described as “casj-cool,” aka your new favorite when it comes to dressing both up and down.
Best midi dresses for petite women
A New Day Apron Slip Dress
Reviewers love this Target dress for its versatility, with adjustable straps that allow you to determine how high or low the neckline on this casual silk number sits.
H&M Oversized Shirt Dress
Perfect for slipping on over a swimsuit, reviewers love this shirt dress for its material. Reviewers claim it runs a tad bit larger than normal, so take note when ordering.
Who What Wear Puff Short Sleeve Cut Out Dress
Appropriately give the cold shoulder on a warm day with this puff-sleeved, gingham take on the maxi dress. With a little cutout located right above the belly button, you’ll be turning to this “very chic” and “comfortable” option often. Plus, it has pockets!
Eddie Bauer Myriad Midi Dress
Redefine athleisure with this cotton dress, complimented for its lightweight fabric. Ideal for “hot weather,” petite reviewers also noted it is the “perfect length.”
Old Navy Fitted Sleeveless Rib-Knit Midi Dress
With an option to select ‘petite’ on Old Navy’s online shop, those who fall within the 5’4” and under range can shop with less stress. This fitted dress is “flattering,” according to one reviewer, who also highlighted its “classic” cut and ability to “look amazing on everyone.”
Loft Lou and Grey Softserve Slub Midi Dress
T-shirt dresses are a staple item every wardrobe needs — paired with a denim jacket or worn on its own, versatility is its most favored quality. With a section in-stores and online dedicated to petite body types and sizes, individuals 5’4” and under need not to worry about the length of their dresses when it comes to shopping at Loft.
Gap Tie-Wrap Midi Dress
Reviewers raved about this frock’s tie detail, adding a bit of flair to a simple and classic dress. They also noted the material was light and airy, a must-have for any summer staple.
Athleta Presidio Dress
Another example of athleisure slowly but surely taking over our wardrobes, this maxi is made with spandex material and has a crescendo-type cut that is “complimenting,” according to one reviewer.
Athleta Santorini Midi Dress
Available in pastel colors we have all come to know and love during spring and summer months, this midi dress from Athleta provides enough support up top that your bra now becomes optional.
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