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Updated Oct 14, 202432 Petite Dresses for Wedding Guests (That Will Actually Fit)
Shopping for dresses can be a challenge when you're petite—but not when you have options like these.
Photos, left to right: Reformation, Nuuly, Banana Republic
Snagging the perfect look is rarely an easy task, and the search for petite wedding guest dresses is certainly no exception. If you're 5' 4" or under, the struggle to find a dress that fits just right can be real. Short dresses run long, midis look like maxis and maxis drag on the ground. While tall heels add some height, they don't really change the overall fit. If you're on the hunt for petite dresses for a wedding guest look that won't make you feel like you're swimming in fabric (or cost hundreds in alterations), you've come to the right place.
The truth is that clothes should be made to fit all kinds of bodies, not the other way around. Thankfully, many designers and retailers are expanding their offerings to include more size-inclusive options for shoppers. With this in mind, we rounded up a range of lovely petite and petite plus wedding guest dresses—from chic silk slips, to casual summer sundresses and even grand ball gowns—for every wedding on your calendar this year. Keep reading to discover our top picks, then, head over to our roundup of wedding guest shoes to find a pair to complete your look.
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In this article…
- Where to Buy Petite Dresses for a Wedding Guest
- Petite Formal Dresses for Wedding Guests
- Petite Cocktail Dresses for Wedding Guests
- Petite Black-Tie Dresses for Wedding Guests
- Petite Semi-Formal Dresses for Wedding Guests
Where to Buy Petite Dresses for a Wedding Guest
If you're tired of spending additional time and money on dress alterations, we've got good news for you. There are plenty of places to shop petite wedding guest dresses that will look good and fit even better. The best part is they all offer convenient shipping straight to your door. Here are a few of our favorites:
Abercrombie & Fitch: Did you know that *all* of Abercrombie and Fitch's iconic dress styles are available in petite sizing? That's right. Just one more reason to stop in during your next trip to the mall.
Reformation: Hello style; Meet size inclusivity. With one of Reformation's trendy petite wedding guest dresses, you'll be well on your way to earning the title of 'best dressed guest'.
Anthropologie: Not only does Anthropologie have plenty of petite wedding guest dress options, but they also carry shoes, handbags, jewelry and more. Consider them a one-stop-shop for all your wedding guest wardrobe needs.
Nuuly: There's no use spending hundreds on a dress if you only plan on wearing it once. Nuuly lets you rent the petite wedding guest dress of your dreams for a fraction of the cost. Plus, they've got plenty of designer options you're sure to love.
Karen Millen: As one of our favorite places to shop petite mother-of-the-bride dresses, we think there's a little something for everyone at Karen Millen. Their versatile looks can be loved for years to come.
Petite Formal Dresses for Wedding Guests
Deciding what to wear to a formal dress code wedding can be hard, especially when you're petite. You'll likely want to dress to impress, but that can feel near impossible when the majority of options out there just don't fit right. Fortunately, with the help of the brands mentioned above, your luck is about to change. These 8 formal wedding guest dresses were designed specifically for those 5'4" and under. From satin slips to pleated maxis, we think these looks will wow no matter the venue of the event.
Abercrombie & Fitch Plunge Cowl Back Maxi Dress in Yellow
Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch
Size Range: XXSP - XXLT
Reformation Petites Andee Dress in Tea Garden
Photo: Reformation
Size Range: 0P - 12P
Abercrombie & Fitch The A&F Giselle Pleated One-Shoulder Maxi Dress in Dark Green
Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch
Size Range: XXSP - XLT
Pankaj & Nidhi Floral Chiffon Ruffle Maxi Dress
Photo: Nuuly
Size Range: XXSP - 3XL
Banana Republic Pleated Chiffon Maxi Dress in Emerald Dream
Photo: Banana Republic Factory
Size Range: 00P - 18
The Fleur Strapless Satin Maxi Slip Dress in Green
Photo: Anthropologie
Size Range: XXSP - 3XL
Abercrombie & Fitch Taffeta Off-The-Shoulder Midi Dress in Fuchsia
Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch
Size Range: XXSP - XLT
Hutch One-Shoulder Colorblock Maxi Dress
Photo: Nuuly
Size Range: 00P - 26W
Petite Cocktail Dresses for Wedding Guests
A cocktail attire wedding is a chance to put your most stylish foot forward. The dress code falls somewhere between formal and black-tie (think: dresses and jumpsuits, but not necessarily evening gowns). In our books, you can never go wrong with a festive mini or midi dress. Because there is a bit more flexibility when it comes to cocktail attire, you really have the chance to lean into your personal style when picking out an outfit. Try experimenting with bold colors, patterns and textures. If you're in need of a little inspiration, we've got you covered. These 8 shoppable petite cocktail wedding guest dresses will fit the occasion, and more importantly, they'll fit you.
Reformation Petites Kourtney Dress in Bonita
Photo: Reformation
Size Range: 0P - 12P
Banana Republic One Shoulder Pleated Midi Dress in Golden Rattan
Photo: Banana Republic Factory
Size Range: 00P - 18
Reformation Petites Casette Silk Dress in Artichoke
Photo: Reformation
Size Range: 0P - 12P
Abercrombie & Fitch The A&F Giselle Pleated Cutout Maxi Dress in Green
Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch
Size Range: XXSP - XXLT
Ann Taylor Petite One Shoulder Flare Midi Dress in Brown Stone
Photo: Ann Taylor
Size Range: 00P - 18
Reformation Petites Bryson Dress in Cherry
Photo: Reformation
Size Range: 0P - 12P
Karen Millen Petite Lace And Ponte Jersey Maxi Dress
Photo: Karen Millen
Size Range: XSP - XLP
Abercrombie & Fitch Ruffle Strap High-Low Maxi Dress in Pink
Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch
Size Range: XXSP - XXLT
Petite Black-Tie Dresses for Wedding Guests
As one of the most formal dress codes, a black-tie dress code typically calls for a floor-length gown. The problem is that for petites, it can be near impossible to find one that won't drag on the ground. Sure, tailoring is always an option, but depending on the silhouette, that could alter the look of the dress. Fortunately, there are plenty of black-tie wedding guest dresses made specifically for those 5'4" and under. When dressing for this type of event, it's best to stick to dark colors like maroon, navy and of course, black. Fabrics like silk and velvet can also help elevate your look. When in doubt, you can't go wrong with one of these 8 options.
Reformation Petites Daniela Silk Dress in Navy
Photo: Reformation
Size Range: 0P - 12P
Camilyn Beth Valerie Velvet Plunging Gown
Photo: Nuuly
Size Range: 00P - 26W
Hutch Strapless Ruffled Gown
Photo: Nuuly
Size Range: 0P - s6W
White House Black Market Petite Halter Draped Matte Jersey With Slit
Photo: White House Black Market
Size Range: 00P - 18
Hutch Tiered Tulle Maxi Dress
Photo: Nuuly
Size Range: 00P - 26W
Karen Millen Petite Feather Off The Shoulder Stretch Crepe Maxi Dress
Photo: Karen Millen
Size Range: 0P - 12P
Aureta One-Shoulder Puff-Sleeve Dress
Photo: Nuuly
Size Range: XXSP - 3XL
Karen Millen Petite Slinky Viscose Sparkle Off The Shoulder Knit Maxi Dress
Photo: Karen Millen
Size Range: XSP - XLP
Petite Semi-Formal Dresses for Wedding Guests
Finding the perfect petite wedding guest dress is no easy task. So, when you do happen to find a look that fits just right, you'll want to hang on to it. Luckily, a semi-formal attire event offers the perfect excuse to break out that go-to look. Because the dress code falls somewhere between formal and casual, there's a good chance you'll be able to work with pieces that you already own. A classic floral midi dress, for instance, can easily be dressed up with heels for a semi-formal event. On the other hand, you might decide to switch things up with a skirt and blouse. If, however, you were in the market for a new petite semi-formal dress that you can re-wear for a number of events, we've got plenty of shoppable options for you to browse.
Abercrombie & Fitch The A&F Camille Midi Dress in Blue Floral
Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch
Size Range: XXSP - XXLT
Abercrombie & Fitch The A&F Emerson Poplin Puff Sleeve Midi Dress in Green
Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch
Size Range: XXSP - XXLT
Hutch Rocco Halter Ruffled Maxi Dress
Photo: Anthropologie
Size Range: XXSP - XL
Abercrombie & Fitch The A&F Emerson Poplin Midi Dress in Yellow Floral
Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch
Size Range: XXSP - XXLT
Karen Millen Petite Viscose Linen Woven Puff Sleeve Midi Dress
Photo: Karen Millen
Size Range: 0P - 12P
Anthropologie The Cecily Fit & Flare Sweetheart Dress
Photo: Nuuly
Size Range: XXSP - 3XL
By Anthropologie Sleeveless V-Neck Pleated Maxi Dress
Photo: Anthropologie
Size Range: XXSP - XL
Hutch Bow-Tie Maxi Dress in Oxford
Photo: Anthropologie
Size Range: 00P - 26W
