“Look for the woman in the dress. If there is no woman, there is no dress.” – Coco Chanel
It seems that everywhere I look in stores and online, midi dresses are becoming more popular than ever. While they look amazing on the models, it’s not always the case being 5’1″. Here are my tips for finding or wearing a midi dress if you’re petite:
- Make sure the length isn’t too long. You want the bottom of the dress to hit absolutely no lower than mid-calf. If the dress is below that point or closer to the ankles, the shorter and more disproportioned you’ll look.
- Fuller skirts look too overwhelming, so opt for softer draping fabrics.
- Do not wear opaque tights/nylons. This will make your look appear less modern and stylish.
- Try avoiding pairing a midi dress with shoes that have ankle straps. I already find straps around the ankles make me look shorter, so this is intensified when wearing longer lengths. Also avoid boots for the same reason.
- Higher heels in general look better with midi dresses in order to elongate your frame.
- Don’t be afraid of patterns.
- And when in doubt, just get the dress hemmed or buy petite sizing!
Dress: Anthropologie (currently eyeing this and this). Bag: Gucci. Shoes: Max Studio. Watch: Chanel. Necklace: Kate Spade. Bracelet: Kate Spade. Sunglasses: Karen Walker. Lips: Guerlain Rouge Kiss.
