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Updated Oct 30, 202323 Chic Petite Wedding Guest Dresses For Women Over 50
Find your perfect fit without a trip to the tailor.
Photos, left to right: Ann Taylor, Ann Taylor, Zappos
Whether you're looking for a fall wedding guest dress for an outdoor affair or a more formal gown, finding a petite wedding guest dress can be a challenge. The options for petite-friendly dresses can feel limited, but making the effort to search can be worth it. Petite dresses are made with smaller body types in mind, not just when it comes to the hemline, but also the overall fit of the garment (think: a dress with long sleeves that don't extend past your hands or a waist that doesn't drop too low). The bottom line? A properly fitting outfit is key to looking—and feeling—your best as a wedding guest. If you're over 50 and looking for something stylish that doesn't require professional tailoring, the below options for petite wedding guest dresses are an excellent place to start.
In this article:
- Our Favorite Petite Wedding Guest Dresses for Over 50
- Where to Buy Petite Wedding Guest Dresses for Women Over 50
Our Favorite Petite Wedding Guest Dresses for Over 50
DKNY Petite Ombre Sequined Faux-Wrap Dress
You can never have too much sparkle—especially at a festive event like a wedding. This wrap dress is a beautiful glittering option thanks to the all-over sequins. And, the flared skirt is just made for twirling.
Ann Taylor Petite Faux Leather Mixed Media Sweater Dress
The mix of faux leather and sweater knit makes for a slightly edgier dress. A fit similar to a bodycon dress plus the chic crew neckline equals a petite wedding guest dress that brings the va va voom.
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Banana Republic Factory Midi Sheath Dress
Available in several hues, this sheath dress is a versatile option that can work for so many different occasions. The simple sleeves and belt around the waist are stylish touches, giving the ensemble a fun feel.
Boden Willow Jersey Dress
Made of soft, stretchy jersey, this dress features a bold and colorful pattern. This long sleeve dress features chic cuffs and is ideal for a spring wedding thanks to its marvelous mini design.
Banana Republic Halter Pleated Maxi Dress
Made with a pretty pleated pattern, this maxi dress comes in an oyster pearl hue, making it look more formal. A delicate tie belt and flowing skirt keep it comfortable.
Alex Evenings Mock Two-Piece Cocktail Dress
The lace bodice with a scalloped edge makes this cocktail dress look like it's two pieces when it's really only one. A high-neck front with a V-neck back is an unexpected combination that works.
Karen Millen Petite Structured Crepe Forever Pleat Midi Dress
Midi dresses can be tough for petite sizes since they tend to look more like a maxi dress. This one will hit at just the right spot. And, the more structured look with the belt feels classic.
Adrianna Papell Feather Trimmed Crepe Sheath
You can't go wrong with a totally classic LBD. Elbow sleeves that end in black feathers make this dress feel fun without making it feel too over the top.
White House Black Market Petite Lace Sleeve Shift Dress
A simple shift dress becomes a lot more interesting thanks to lace sleeves. This shorter option can easily be dressed up to look more formal or kept on the side of cocktail attire.
Tommy Hilfiger Petite Metallic Dot Ruched-Waist Dress
The metallic polka dot pattern on this skirt gives off just the right amount of subtle sparkle. The ruched detail across the waist is a pretty, feminine touch.
Banana Republic Petite Bliss Silk Dress
The light pink hue of this satin dress would have made an impression all on its own. The chic straps and the sleek fitted look makes it even more stunning.
Reformation Petites Sylvania Velvet Dress
Finding a maxi dress with a properly tailored hemline is a must for petite women. This luxe velvet dress has a more flowy fit, an elegant strapless neckline and it hits at exactly the right place.
Ann Taylor Satin Belted Flare Dress
A cowl neck and short sleeves make for one effortlessly glam look. A thin velvet belt gives this a more put-together vibe.
Banana Republic Factory Puff-Sleeve Maxi Dress
The puff sleeves on this maxi dress gives it just enough drama to make it stand out and look more formal. Made of breathable cotton, this versatile option would work well for a variety of dress codes and wedding locales.
R&M Richards Petite Glitter Lace Dress & Waterfall Jacket
This glittering sheath dress has a scoop neck and a pretty pattern. The lightweight waterfall jacket is a nice layering accessory for chillier nights or if you want to cover up your arms.
Jessica Howard Petite 3/4 Sleeve Blouson Side-Tie Dress
The emerald shade and soufflé fabric of this dress is ideal for a cocktail-themed wedding. Plus, the flowing sleeves and waist tie with white beads make for a more modest silhouette that still shows off a great pair of shoes.
R&M Richards Petite 2-Piece Flair Jacket & Dress Set
The jacket of this champagne sleeveless dress transforms it from something that feels light and airy to a stylish option for cooler weather. Bonus: It also adds pretty sparkle.
Alex Evenings Embellished Ruched Sheath Dress
This comfortable cocktail dress has a draped skirt and wrap dress style front that makes for a perfectly polished fit. The beaded embellishment on the side is a pretty addition.
SL Fashions Petite Long Ombre Satin Dress
The ombre colors here make this dress a serious stand out. The length of this piece alongside its beautiful and bold blue hue is ideal for any winter wedding.
Alex Evenings Petite Tea Length Party Dress with Full Rosette Skirt and Tie Faux Belt
This petite dress features the look of a wrap dress—without the fear that it might come apart while you're on the dance floor. The shimmering rose pattern across the skirt is a striking detail for day or night weddings. And, you can definitely wear this sleek and chic look again with a shiny pump.
Robbie Bee Petite 3/4 Sleeve Sheath Dress
Dark floral prints give any silhouette a more formal feel. This dress features a pretty gold and black take on this trend that works well for a fall wedding, especially when paired with black tights.
Connected Apparel Petite Sleeveless Sheath Dress
If you prefer a sleeveless dress, this option has dreamy flutter sleeves that flatter the arms and have an inherently romantic feel. Bonus: The gorgeous teal color works for any time of year.
Where to Buy Petite Wedding Guest Dresses for Women Over 50
Not every brand or retailer offers petite sizing, but there are definitely options out there. The below brands each have a wedding-worthy selection of petite dresses (and other clothing items).
Anthropologie
Anthropologie sells a wide range of petite dresses that range from trendy and cool to more classic and simple. You'll find everything from casual maxi dresses to more formal options here, and there are also a lot of unique picks for those who want a dress that stands out.
Ann Taylor
For versatile petite dresses that can be worn to a cocktail party, wedding, or even to work, Ann Taylor is a great spot to check. There are petite party dresses and more casual options, and everything comes at a reasonable price point.
Boden
Boden's colorful prints and patterns make for some really fun petite dress options. There are also solid-colored cocktail dresses that feel versatile, as well as some maxi dresses that would be great for summer weddings.
Dillard's
If you're shopping on a budget, consider Dillard's. Most of the petite dresses from this retailer cost less than $200. Many of them are more formal, but there are a handful of casual options as well. The store carries brands like Alex Evenings, Ignite Evenings and Adrianna Papell dresses.
JCPenney
Maybe the most budget-friendly option is JCPenney, which has a wide variety of great dresses for less than $100. You can find brands like Jessica Howard and Connected Apparel. Many of the dresses are on the more casual side, though, so if you're looking for a formal petite dress, keep that in mind.
Karen Millen
Karen Millen has an impressively large selection of petite dresses. Many are on the trendier side, and prices are typically between $100 and $500. If you're on the hunt for a statement piece, be sure to check out this site.
Macy's
Macy's has hundreds of petite dresses available for purchase with prices varying from under $100 to around $300. They carry numerous popular brands, including R & M Richards, XSCAPE, Jessica Richards, Betsy & Adam and Alex Evenings. Bonus: Macy's has frequent sales.
Nordstrom
For a good mix of designer options and more budget-friendly picks, shop Nordstrom's petite dresses. While they don't have quite as large of a selection as some other department stores, they do offer some nice picks from upscale brands including Karen Kane, Alex Evenings and Michael Stars.
Reformation
With a focus on sustainability, Reformation is a stylish option for those who want to shop consciously. The petite section features a range of casual dresses as well as formal gowns.
Talbots
Find classic dresses and traditional styles in the Talbots petite section. Fairly reasonable price points make it easy to find a wedding dress that works for you.
