Petite Dresses

By Julie Chen

For petite women, it can be hard to find dresses that are flattering and do not hang or look baggy on their tiny frame. Many companies have started to cater to plus size and smaller women and there are more and more petite dresses available but many still not very flattering. The key to find appealing dresses is to look first on individual body frames and parts. Some women have areas that are more attractive like necklines and clavicles but some women are too skinny and need to cover up these areas. It depends on several factors but there are dresses available that do make charming options for most events. Petite women should look for dresses that give a little more lift or will accentuate their curves. Beware of dresses that have too much volume or are adorned with too many distractions as this pulls away attention from the wearer.

Knit Dress

This Banana Republic number offers women a nice choice when it comes to dresses and features navy stripes to go with the short sleeves and V-neckline. The top has a nice twist as well and the skirt flares out, starting from the waist. The dress is very affordable, stylish, and can be worn to numerous events.

Bolero Jacket Dress

This Jessica Howard dress, available at Dillard stores, demonstrates how to use a short sleeved bolero jacket to accompany an outfit. The dress is already lovely by itself, featuring a square neckline with spaghetti straps and the plaid design with the black ribbon tie at the waist. The A-line silhouette adds to the dresses appeal.

Simple Shift

Shift dresses are definitely great with petite figures because it just flows straight down without much hassle and is not to overbearing with volume. This Eileen Fisher dress is very simplistic with a tank style design and scoop neckline. The unique factor on this dress is the center seaming that goes great with the simple design. The dress is purchasable at Nordstrom.

Celeb Dress

Nicole Ritchie absolutely has a petite frame but almost never fails to look great in dresses and this gorgeous gown she wore to the LACMA's Opening Celebration of the Broad Contemporary Art Museum. The cream colored dress really looks flattering on her body and the details on the off-shoulder straps and bodice really enhance the creation. This is how to dress up for formal occasions.