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Updated Mar 06, 202524 Eye-Catching Petite Cocktail Dresses for Wedding Guests
Gorgeous dresses that fit well for the under 5’4” crowd.
Photos, left to right: Nuuly, Reformation, ASOS
One of the most confusing parts about being a wedding guest? Deciphering the dress code. Another challenge? Finding the perfect look, especially if you're petite. If you have a wedding coming up that calls for cocktail attire and you wear petite clothing, this guide is for you. Cocktail attire is a step above semi-formal attire and a step below black-tie optional. If you're 5'4" or under and you're struggling to find a dress that's the perfect length and size for the occasion, we're here to help.
The Best Petite Cocktail Dresses for 2024 Weddings
If you're on the hunt for the perfect petite cocktail dress for a 2024 wedding, you've come to the right place. We've selected dresses from retailers that offer petite sizing like Abercrombie & Fitch, Anthropologie, Nordstrom and more, so you can wear a dress you look great and feel confident in. We've rounded up options for warmer events by the beach, cooler indoor events and everything in between. Happy shopping.
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Abercrombie & Fitch Taffeta Off-the-Shoulder Midi Dress
Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch
There are so many cute details on this number, it's hard to pick a favorite. We love the off-the-shoulder ruffle sleeves and the bright hue. Pair it with some strappy heels and bold earrings to make a statement.
Size Range: XXSP-XLP
By Anthropologie Tiered Maxi Dress
Photo: Anthropologie
This flowy floor-length dress is the perfect option for a spring soiree. The tiered ruffles and gorgeous floral pattern make this a unique wedding guest option. Plus, the belted waist will do wonders for your figure.
Size Range: XXSP-XLP
Hutch Floral Halter Maxi Dress
Photo: Anthropologie
This fun and bold number is made for a summer event. The cool halter detail, bright green and blue hues, and slit up one side mean you'll be the life of the party in more ways than one. The re-wearability factor is also another perk.
Size Range: 00P-16P
The A&F Giselle Pleated Midi Dress
Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch
The pleats are the star of the show on this dress. Just picture how fun and flowy the dress will be when you're tearing up the dance floor. We're also big fans of the bright blue color.
Size Range: XXSP- XXLP
Reformation Petites Casette Silk Dress
Photo: Reformation
This silk midi dress is so simple yet so flattering. Choose between a ruby red, artichoke, black or blue iris color, pair it with some classic jewelry and you're all set to go.
Size Range: 0P-12P
Reformation Petites Marguerite Silk Dress
Photo: Reformation
The tie straps, floral pattern and high slit make this a great option for a summer wedding. Not to mention the lightweight silk charmeuse fabric will keep you cool. Grab it in tarragon or meringue.
Size Range: 0P-12P
Reformation Petites Jeany Silk Dress
Photo: Reformation
Have your own Andie Anderson moment in this silky yellow number. If you want to go full romcom, grab some beautiful drop earrings and a matching clutch to really evoke early 2000s nostalgia.
Size Range: 0P-12P
Karen Kane Scalloped Lace Cocktail Dress
Photo: Nordstrom
This lace cocktail dress is perfect for someone with more traditional taste. The scalloped hemline gives this otherwise classic look a modern upgrade. The navy blue color also works well with a variety of skin tones.
Size Range: XSP-XLP
SL Fashions Floral High-Low Cocktail Dress
Photo: Nordstrom
The fitted bodice and floral-patterned skirt give this look a two-piece vibe. It's designed with pockets to hold your essentials. Finish the look with some pearl earrings.
Size Range: 8P-16P
ASOS Design Embroidered Mini Tea Dress
Photo: ASOS
For a boho chic look, this light green number featuring a pink embroidered design is your perfect match. The puff sleeves, ankle-length style and tie-back fastening are a few of our favorite details.
Size Range: 00P-12P
Lace & Beads Bandeau Tulle Mini Dress
Photo: ASOS
You'll be a walking party in this strapless tulle dress. The cinched waist gives your body shape in an otherwise fabric-heavy look. Finish it off with some bright pumps and eye-catching jewelry.
Size Range: 0-10
Vero Moda Satin Square Neck Slip Dress
Photo: ASOS
If you're looking for a cocktail dress with a more relaxed vibe without sacrificing style, we've found just the thing. This square neck, sleeveless style has a looser fit that's comfy but not sloppy. The pastel lilac color makes this a great option for a spring wedding.
Size Range: 0-10
Eliza J Long Sleeve Sequined Dress
Photo: Bloomingdale's
Make the whole reception shimmer in this long-sleeved, sequined dress. It's lined on the inside so you're not itchy all night. Pair it with some understanded, simple heels and jewelry.
Size Range: 0-18
Lisa Fuchsia Abstract Faux Wrap Dress
Photo: Connected Apparel
This look is ideal for someone looking to pack a punch with their wedding guest look. Between the fuschia color and abstract pattern, you'll definitely have all eyes on you. Keep the shoes nude since the dress has a heavy pattern.
Size Range: 4P-14P
One-Shoulder Pleated Mini Dress
Photo: Banana Republic
This dress takes your basic satin pleated dress and gives it a modern upgrade with the one-shoulder detail and asymmetrical. Choose between golden rattan and pink amaretti hues.
Size Range: 00P-12P
Anthropologie The Cecily Fit & Flare Sweetheart Dress
Photo: Nuuly
This fit-and-flare dress has a bright and bold pattern that'll stand out among a sea of wedding guest dresses. It's made of "magic fabric" which is made to sculpt as it stretches. The cap sleeves and sweetheart neckline are just the cherry on top. Use the code "THEKNOT20" to save $20 off your first order.
Size Range: XXSP-XLP
Hutch Twist Front Puff-Sleeve Ruffle-Hem Dress
Photo: Nuuly
This dress has a vibrant color paired with feminine tailoring to create the perfect wedding guest look. The twist front, ruffled hem and puff sleeves are all unique details that make this look extra special.
Size Range: XXSP-XLP
The A&F Giselle Pleated Jumpsuit
Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch
Size Range: XXSP-XLP
Plunge Cowl Back Maxi Dress
Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch
The best part of this dress is actually on the back: the plunge cowl and tie-back detail. Plus it comes in a range of colors like pink, navy, light green and light blue. The ankle length makes it perfect for cocktail wedding attire.
Size Range: XXSP- XLP
Hutch Off-the-Shoulder Bow Mini Dress
Photo: Anthropologie
A LBD is always a safe option for a cocktail attire wedding dress code, but this one has a number of details that elevate it like off-the-shoulder puff sleeves and bow details. Pair it with bold shoes and jewelry.
Size Range: XXSP-XLP
Reformation Ottessa Mini Dress
Photo: Anthropologie
A little black dress, but with an air of sophistication. The high neckline and long sleeves give this look a more serious vibe. The keyhole cutout and mini length allow you to show off a tasteful amount of skin. Pair it with tights and save this for your next winter wedding.
Size Range: XSP-XLP
White House Black Market Petite Sleeveless Lace Fit and Flare Mini Dress
Photo: White House Black Market
This fit-and-flare lace dress is a great option for warmer seasons. Finish off the look with open-toe heels and some classic jewelry. Don't forget a shawl if any of the events take place outside.
Size Range: 00P-18P
White House Black Market Petite Strapless Sweetheart Dress
Photo: White House Black Market
This A-line midi dress features a sweetheart neckline and bow detail that give this dress an air of playful femininity. We also love the white-and-black striped design detail at the bottom of the dress.
Size Range: 00P-18P
By Anthropologie One-Shoulder Linen Column Dress
Photo: Anthropologie
This linen column dress contains a variety of details like a one-shoulder ruffle strap and a slit up the middle. Pair with an equally colorful block heel and eye-catching jewelry.
Size Range: XXSP-XLP
