Those of us with petite statures know all too well the challenge of finding occasion wear that fits - and with the seemingly never-ending array of nuptials filling our calendars, the wedding guest dress stress is real.
Choosing an off-the-rack style will usually require a tailor on standby in order to nip, trim and shorten the areas that gape, drown us or drag on the floor – a cost that is never welcomed. This also removes the possibility of borrowing an outfit from any of the current fashion rental services, so where does that leave us?
Petite fashion has come on leaps and bounds in recent years. You no longer need to compromise to be able to find a dramatic piece for your formal occasions. For I Do celebrations, parties or proms, you can find a frock for every dress code and in line with the latest trends.
Whether you prefer a figure-flattering pared-back item or a frothy frock with all the tulle, embellishments and sequins to honour the special occasion, we have got you covered.
Shop our edit of the best petite dresses for wedding guest dressing and beyond.
Reformation Petites Kourtney Dress
Reformation has one of the most extensive petite dress offerings with styles to suit every element of the nuptials, from ceremony to reception. This head-turning number comes in a cherry red hue with a fitted bodice and wrap skirt. If you are looking for something slightly less attention-grabbing (thereby avoiding the bride’s wrath), there’s floral patterns of the same silhouette too.
Buy now £278.00, Reformation
Warehouse Petite Floral Print Voluminous Midi Dress
For warm weather settings and more casual elements of the nuptial festivities, Warehouse has this frothy floral frock in a cotton fabric. It has a flattering cinching, nipping in at a high waist as well as puff sleeves with elasticated cuffs. The is one to bring colour to the pre-party celebrations.
Buy now £55.30, Warehouse
Reiss Evelyn Fitted Halter Neck Midi Dress
Floaty yet contemporary, Reiss’ halterneck midi dress is given a 2023 twist with keyhole detailling and an asymmetric hem. The vivid orange makes it perfect for summer nuptials.
Buy now £228.00, Reiss
Oasis Rachel Stevens Petite Satin Twist Front Draped Midi Dress
Constructed with a lustrous satin, Oasis’ collaboration with Rachel Stevens will easily take you from the ceremony to the afterparty - after all, there ain’t no party like an S Club party.
Buy now £62.30, Oasis
Ro & Zo Petite High Neck Floral Midi Dress
Renowned for collections of easy-going, sustainable and high quality womenswear, including a great selection of petite styles, Ro & Zo should be firmly on the list of anyone in need of the smaller fit. We love the striking floral print on this high-necked floaty number.
Buy now £129.00, Ro & Zo
Whistles Annabelle Cape Sleeve Dress
The perfect summer event dress, Whistles’ Annabelle design is equal parts elegant and stylish. Crafted using viscose, it flows beautifully - especially thanks to the unusual cape sleeve.
Buy now £159.00, Whistles
Nobody's Child Petite frill midaxi dress in lilac
Nobody’s Child is a go-to for pretty dresses - and this petite lilac design is no exception. Thanks to the feminine ruffle collar, you’ll be fluttering throughout the day in style.
Buy now £95.00, ASOS
Warehouse Petite Premium Ruffle Detail Tiered Maxi Dress
In a famously polarising chartreuse shade, you’ll either love or hate Warehouse’s ruffle maxi - and we’re firmly in the former camp. The best part? At the moment, it’s 30 per cent off.
Buy now £90.30, Warehouse
Phase Eight Petite Morven Blue Wrap Midi Dress
An easy-to-wear wrap design, Phase Eight’s cobalt blue midi is a versatile option that can be dressed up for a wedding with the right accessories. Made using recycled fibres, it’s a more eco-conscious choice, too.
Buy now £129.00, Phase Eight
Hobbs Petite Carly Spot Dress
Cut to a traditional fit from a lightweight georgette, Hobbs’ painterly design is perfect for those who have an enduring, classic sense of style.
Buy now £169.00, Hobbs
River Island Petite Silver Metallic Plisse Midi Dress
Whilst River Island may not be your first thought when it comes to event dressing, they have a great range of petite dresses that are wallet-friendly, too. Throw on this plisse metallic option and you’ll be glittering from the service to the dancefloor.
Buy now £55.00, River Island
Hobbs Petite Alva Belted Dress
You can never go wrong with an all-black number and this option from Hobbs is great to keep in your wardrobe for celebration stresses. It has a classic aesthetic with a shift silhouette, crew neck and waist belt for cinching.
Buy now £110.00, Hobbs
4th & Reckless open back long sleeve mini dress in black and silver sequin
Bring the disco fever with this party-ready dress from 4th & Reckless. Covered in glitzy sequin embellishments, this will stand out on the dancefloor yet still remains demure thanks to the black colourway for the colourphobes among you.
Buy now £60.00, ASOS
