19 Best Petite Bridesmaid Dresses in Every Color

The ideal dress for any bridesmaid is one that fits almost perfectly off-the-rack, requiring little to no tailoring. For those who are on the shorter side, that means finding a petite bridesmaid dress, which can be… tough. These dresses are made with smaller frames in mind and don't require the extra cost of a tailor or the sacrificing of a design to make the look work. "Petite dresses are holistically scaled down for bodies 5'4" and under," explains Jessica Kotal, Senior Director of Design at Reformation. "This means the straps are shorter, bodice is shorter, the skirt is shorter and all details within the garment may be slightly smaller to accommodate shorter frames." Opting for a petite dress isn't just about the hemline—that sizing can make it look and fit better in every way, which in turn makes a bridesmaid feel more comfortable and confident.

• Where to Buy Petite Bridesmaid Dresses
• 19 Gorgeous Petite Bridesmaid Dresses
• Shopping and Alteration Tips for Petite Bridesmaids

Where to Buy Petite Bridesmaid Dresses

It's not always easy to find petite bridesmaid dresses (or petite dresses in general), but there are some retailers who have dedicated petite sections and some even offer formalwear within those. If you're wondering where to buy petite bridesmaid dresses, start by looking through these to find something that works for the vibe of the wedding.

• Reformation: Reformation has a whole petites section, including petite gowns and dresses. This makes it really easy to find exactly what you're looking for when shopping. You can expect to find dresses that range from long and very formal to slightly more casual, in a variety of colors and patterns with an overall chic and stylish vibe to them. Expect to spend between $200 and $500 depending on how formal the dress is.
• Anthropologie: Anthropologie also has a dedicated petite section for dresses, making it more convenient to find the right size. The site sells several different brands and designers. You'll find a wide range of styles, from classic and elegant gowns to more boho and free-spirited dresses. Prices can also vary, but you should expect to spend a few hundred dollars.
• ASOS: ASOS' petite dress section is impressively extensive, although they do seem to have more casual dresses rather than formal (they do have a petite bridesmaid section, though). ASOS sells dresses that are trendy and modern, with some more timeless pieces thrown in as well. You can find more budget-friendly price points, although some are more expensive than others.
• Abercrombie & Fitch: There's no specific petites section on the Abercrombie website, but you'll find that almost all of their dresses (and pants) are offered in petite sizing (AKA short). Some are even offered in extra-short, which is not as easy to find. You shouldn't expect to find super formal gowns here (it's not where you would go for a black-tie wedding), but they do have some bridesmaid appropriate options and are especially great for a more casual bridesmaid look. The prices are also reasonable, usually costing between $100 and $200.

19 Gorgeous Petite Bridesmaid Dresses

A petite bridesmaid dress doesn't just mean finding something that doesn't need to be hemmed—it will fit better all over for smaller proportions and sizes. The below options range from very formal to more casual, in a range of colors and sizes, with a fit for every dress code and season.

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The Fleur Strapless Satin Maxi Slip Dress

Photo: Anthropologie

This strapless satin dress has a beautiful texture and soft feel, with an easy pull-over style that makes it feel very low-key. It comes in two solid shades that feel more formal and some prints that are definitely on the more casual side.

Size Range: XXS Petite - XL Petite

Reformation Petites Daniela Silk Dress

Photo: Reformation

Elegant with an effortlessly cool feel, this silk dress is simple, but doesn't require much to make it stand out. It features a v-neck and very low back, with a halter neck that makes it feel great for a spring or summer wedding. It's also made of a lightweight charmeuse that is ideal for warmer weather.

Size Range: 0P-12P

TFNC Petite Satin Halter Maxi Dress

Photo: ASOS

This halter maxi dress looks like your classic bridesmaid dress, but with a twist: the keyhole cutout on the bust adds a little more sex appeal. It also has feminine details like a full pleated skirt and a sash around the neck that can be tied into a bow.

Size Range: 0-10 Petite

Boden Bardot Jersey Maxi Dress

Photo: Boden

Made of a slinky jersey fabric, this dress has a lightweight feel that is great for warmer weather and is super soft and comfortable. It features some really beautiful draping and a glamorous off-the-shoulder look. While not a floor-sweeping gown, it still feels appropriate for a bridesmaid to wear to a more casual wedding.

Size Range: 0-12 Petite

Abercrombie & Fitch Plunge Cowl Back Maxi Dress

Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch

With a timeless and sophisticated look, this maxi dress is versatile and can be dressed up or down. The front is very simple, but the back offers more interesting details, like a cowl back and delicate tie at the back of the neck. It's available in a few beautiful colors (including a yellow that almost looks like the infamous one Kate Hudson wore in How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days).

Size Range: XXS-XXL Petite

Adrianna Papell Petite Stretch Jersey Gown

Photo: Dillard's

For something more formal that feels like your traditional bridesmaid dress, opt for this beautiful one-shoulder gown. It comes in a vibrant sapphire color, with sparkling embellishments and a front slip. The jersey fabric is soft, lightweight and stretchy for added comfort.

Size Range: 6P-16P

White House Black Market Petite Halter Draped Matte Jersey

Photo: White House Black Market

Looking for a black bridesmaid gown in a petite size? This is perfect. Not only is it available in a range of sizes, but it's also incredibly versatile. The halter neckline looks great on everyone and there's nice pleating and a front slit. This can easily be worn again as a wardrobe staple for more formal events.

Size Range: 00-18 Petite

Reformation Petites Nadira Dress

Photo: Reformation

If a slightly shorter length feels appropriate for the dress code, this midi dress is a stunner. Available in a bold red shade or two patterns that feel more casual, it has pretty tie straps and a sweetheart neckline with a flouncy hem at the skirt for some nice movement.

Size Range: 0P-12P

TFNC Petite Bridesmaid Flutter Sleeve Maxi Dress

Photo: ASOS

A wrap-style front, flowy skirt and flutter sleeves make this dress versatile, easy to wear and very classic. It's available in a trendy sage color and has a pretty waist. At just around $100, it's also pretty budget-friendly.

Size Range: 0-10 Petite

Abercrombie & Fitch Drama Ruffle Tiered Maxi Dress

Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch

If you're looking for a floral pattern or just something on the more casual side, this is a fun choice. The tiered skirt features lots of ruffles and the floral pattern is bright and bold. This style is especially great to get in a petite size since tiered skirts like these can be hard to alter.

Size Range: XXS-XXL Petite

Betsy & Adam Petite Violette Tuxedo Dress

Photo: Betsy & Adam

In all black, this tuxedo style dress is unique but still stylish and elegant. It's made of a thick and stretchy scuba crepe that gives it a more high quality feel and is versatile enough to be worn at any time of year. This is a perfect black petite bridesmaid dress.

Size Range: 2P-12P

Abercrombie & Fitch One Shoulder Asymmetrical Midi Dress

Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch

Looking for a shorter petite bridesmaid dress? Look no further. This chic midi dress will stand out at any wedding thanks to its asymmetrical and ruffle hem. The one-shoulder look makes it feel more formal, and in navy or black, it's great for weddings in the fall or winter.

Size Range: XXS-XL Petite

By Anthropologie One-Shoulder Column Midi Dress

Photo: Anthropologie

This shorter midi dress is ideal for a more casual ceremony, especially one in the spring or summer – it would look like a great petite bridesmaid dress for an outdoor wedding. The one-shoulder features a dramatic ruffle and the column shape is elegant. It's made of lightweight linen for warmer temperatures.

Size Range: XXS-XL Petite

Reformation Petites Jeany Silk Dress

Photo: Reformation

Alluring and chic, with a slightly more modern feel, this silk dress is one you'll definitely want to rewear outside of a wedding party. It features a halter neckline, delicate tie straps in the back and even a little row of fabric buttons. It's simple but beautiful and comes in a lightweight charmeuse that makes it best for warmer weather.

Size Range: XSP-XLP

Anaya Petite Wrap Front Dress

Photo: ASOS

Opt for easy and classic with this shorter midi length dress available in a romantic shade of soft blue. It's made of airy tulle for an overall dreamy look, with a wrap-front style and open back. It's comfortable and budget-friendly.

Size Range: 0-10P

Betsy & Adam Petite Boat Neck Ruffle Gown

Photo: Dillard's

This classic style is available in both pink and black – the pink feels more romantic and better for spring or summer, while the black is more versatile and could be worn at any time of the year. The boatneck gives it that effortless vibe, while the ruffle front stands out nicely.

Size Range: 4P-16P

By Anthropologie Strapless Flounce A-Line Midi Dress

Photo: Anthropologie

Fun and whimsical, this strapless midi dress offers an A-line silhouette that also feels very stylish and modern. The flouncy neckline adds a little extra texture. This dress can easily be dressed up or down, but would be better for a more casual bridesmaid look overall.

Size Range: XXSP-XLP

Abercrombie & Fitch Angel Sleeve O-Ring Maxi Dress

Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch

There's a lot to love about this shiny satin maxi dress: The flutter sleeves that can be so hard to find on a formal dress, the hardware O-ring in the center of the bust for something different, and the front slit for some sex appeal. It's available in three bold, fun colors and is super versatile: you can dress this up or down as needed.

Size Range: XXSP-XLP

Anaya Petite Bridesmaid Tulle Maxi Dress

Photo: ASOS

This tulle one-shoulder maxi dress is a traditional option for a petite bridesmaid dress. It looks and feels light and airy, with a front slit and almost Grecian feel to it.

Size Range: 0-10P

Shopping and Alteration Tips for Petite Bridesmaids

Shopping for a petite bridesmaid dress can feel frustrating, since there aren't always that many options. But opting for a petite size over a regular size is actually worth it. "It's all about scaling the garment down holistically to flatter a smaller frame," Kotal says. "Oftentimes shortening the skirt of a dress isn't enough to get a fit right because the bodice may still be too long or simply not proportionate to your body overall."

If you can't find a bridesmaid dress in a petite size, you'll have to get alterations on a regular size. Depending on how many alterations need to be made, prepare yourself that it might be costly. To avoid extensive tailoring, look for specific styles and silhouettes that might work with your frame better. You should also keep in mind that not everything about a dress can always be altered. Kotal suggests looking for a bodice that fits your frame well, and then just having the length altered. "This is the simplest and sometimes the only route for alterations depending on the complexity of the garment," she notes. "If there is a waist seam, it may be possible to also reduce bodice length, but be sure to discuss with a tailor before committing to a piece."

You can also opt for a strapless dress, suggests Julie Sabatino, founder of The Stylish Bride and author of Dressed, Styled and Down the Aisle, because it will require less alterations. "There are also several convertible style dresses where you can create your own neckline, and these can work well for a petite woman," she adds.

Sabatino also recommends looking for a princess cut dress that doesn't have a waist seam, and sticking with simple and streamlined silhouettes that don't overwhelm a small frame. Kotal likes slip dresses as a petite-friendly option, saying, "It is the most forgiving because it doesn't require a waist seam, so the length of your torso won't matter as much. That way all you have to do is shorten the skirt."

You can also shop for customized dresses that are made-to-order. They may take all of your measurements and create a dress that fits you perfectly – although keep in mind these can be a bit more pricey.

Need more help? Use The Knot Vendor Marketplace to find in-person bridesmaid dress shopping and alterations near you by filtering under Dress Types or Fashion Services.