How To Pull Off A Maxi Dress If You're Petite

If you're a petite lady, you might think that you'll look swallowed up by a maxi dress and that they're made only for the vertically-blessed. But that's not true!

Petite girls can actually look taller in a long maxi dress. All you have to do is pick the right dress.

Keep reading to find out our tips on how to choose a maxi dress that will flatter your petite size!

#1 Solid colours

Pick a maxi dress that has just one solid colour as it draws the eye up and down the entire length of your dress which will make you appear taller. If you're a plus size petite, go with dark solid colours for a slimming effect.

Avoid vertical lines or block patterns in your dress as this visually halves your body to make you look shorter.

#2 Small prints

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If you love your prints, pick a dress that has small prints as a long dress plus large patterns will overwhelm your petite frame.

#3 Close-fitting cut

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Petite women tend to look better in maxi dresses that are cut close to the body but not too tight. Choose one that has a high waistline to create the illusion of long legs.

#4 Soft, flowy fabrics

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The best fabrics should hug your body’s natural curve not too loosely or tightly and create a feminine and flattering silhouette. Some good options are chiffon and cotton.

Avoid boxy or oversized silhouettes and dresses made of a stiff or thick material as they may exaggerate your small frame.

#5 Floor-length

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The longer the dress, the taller you'll look! When you wear heels with a dress that covers your ankles, you'll look like you have legs that go on forever.

While ankle-length dresses are a lot more comfortable and practical, try a floor-length one if you want to look taller!

#6 Side slit

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Maxi dresses with a high side slit look especially flattering on petite women.

By showing part of your legs with a side slit, it will avoid making you look swamped by the fabric and make you look taller.

#7 Elongating details

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Pick a maxi dress that has details that will elongate your silhouette. This includes dresses with a V neckline or a single vertical line running through it.

Share this article with your fellow petite friends! 

Text by: GirlStyle SG