19 best petite wedding guest dresses if you're 5ft 4 and under
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When it comes to finding the best petite wedding guest dresses, I believe that no one has searched harder than I have. As someone who is classed as petite (anyone who is 5ft 4, and under) and also a fashion editor, both my personal quest and the fact it's my job to look have both led me to discover that finding occasionwear that fits the location, vibe and your leg length is no mean feat.
Actually, it's pretty damn hard. So this is why I'm taking it upon myself to help petite girlies everywhere who may be struggling to find ‘the one’, when it comes to the perfect wedding guest dress, that is. Not all heroes wear capes, hey? (Unless, you choose to wear the Reiss maxi dress or Ralph Lauren mini dress I'll show you a bit later, which do in fact have built-in capes.) Anyway, back to the best petite wedding guest dresses, and the dilemma of how to actually find styles that are trending, and fit like a dream.
I would say around this time of year “which kind of guest outfit should I wear to [insert ceremony type here] wedding?” is what I get asked most by friends, family and basically anyone who knows I work in fashion. Everyone wants to look their very best, and luckily team Glamour have already found the best spring wedding guest dresses and the best summer wedding guest dresses. B
ut let's make it specific, shall we? What kind of wedding guest outfit should you wear if you're tall, plus size or in this case, petite? While Senior Commerce Writer Georgia Trodd (who is 6ft) has named 11 of the best tall clothing brands to look out for, and size-inclusive consultant Felicity Hayward has given a shout-out to plus size wedding guest dresses from her fave plus size clothing brands, now, it's my turn to give some guidance on the best petite wedding guest dresses around.
Last year was my biggest wedding guest season. I had five, yes five weddings all over the country including Essex, London, Norfolk and even the South of France. Each ceremony was completely different, so I had to go on the hunt for different wedding guest outfits that would fit the brief. As a bridesmaid for one of them, I even found so many gorgeous bridesmaid dresses (particularly sage green styles), and even helped search for mother of the bride outfits for one of the weddings, in case you're a bride-to-be who may need recommendations for these, too.
Basically, I'm a bit of an expert when it comes to wedding guest dresses in general, and with only one wedding to attend in the diary this year, I'm still trying to find the perfect petite guest outfit. Question is, should I go for a mini dress, midi dress or maxi dress? While I'm not blessed with supermodel long legs, there are maxi dresses out there that won't require a tailor. I even wore a Karen Millen petite style (seen below, but it's sold out now, sorry) to one of the weddings last year with a slight train (don't worry, it was bright orange, not white!) and I had no trip issues. Weirdly, I also think it made me look taller than I am.
I'm all for extra long dramatic dresses, so if a dress does turn into a floor-sweeper, I say, embrace it. I'm only just about considered ‘petite’, so I can also shop in the regular sections and often the extra fabric doesn't bother me. But, with this being said, necklines can be the tricky part, often they never sit right where you want them to. A halterneck can bunch, a one shoulder version can sag and a square neck can droop, so finding a petite dress that fits like a glove is a much better option then making do. Especially when more recently, so many online clothing brands – including Reiss, ASOS and New Look – along with higher end brands like RIXO and Reformation all now having petite offerings, it's now so much easier to find a dress that won't drown you.
Let me take this opportunity to show you some of the best wedding guest dresses for petites from some brands you'll know, and hopefully some new petite labels that'll make finding the dream wedding guest outfit that little bit easier.
For more from freelance fashion editor Harriet Davey, follow her on Instagram @harriet.davey.
Scroll to see the 19 best petite wedding guest dresses you'll want to show off.
Petite Premium Ruched Jersey Maxi Dress
If you're petite and think maxi dresses are a no go, think again. While taller people may find it harder to find a dress that sits perfectly around the ankle, us shorter gals have the advantage that most dresses will fall at the maxi dress sweet spot. This is one of those short sleeve midi dresses that's quite simple – the focus is on the ruched detail and high neck – but it still looks statement enough to make an impact. Note: with the addition of gold or silver jewellery (chocolate brown looks amazing with both).
- Sizes available: XS- XL.
- Colours: Brown.
Save when you shop for the best petite wedding guest dresses with these Karen Millen discount codes at checkout.
Firstly, yes you can wear a mini dress to any wedding – aside from a black tie event, that is. Zara is another high street brand that doesn't have a petite section, but it does have gorgeous affordable wedding guest dresses, so I of course had to include one. Us petite girls can really lean into wearing a mini dress for any occasion, and I love this lilac short sleeve version with it's tiered ruffle details, sheer chiffon fabric and of course that pretty lilac shade that screams summer wedding from all angles. We all know the best dresses sell out first, especially at Zara, so don't sit on this one.
- Sizes available: XS - XL.
- Colours: Lilac.
Fae Petite Satin Cape Maxi Dress
Often gown style dresses can be tricky to find for us petite girls. That is until the Reiss petite section stepped in to help – creating this incredible satin maxi dress with cape detail (giving a cowl neck effect). So, do I wear the khaki or charcoal version for an upcoming wedding in Ireland this summer? Either way, I have no doubt this maxi dress will make anyone who wears it gain the crown of best dressed wedding guest. Get ready for the endless compliments.
- Sizes available: 4 - 18.
- Colours: Khaki and dark grey.
Save when you shop for the best petite wedding guest dresses with these Reiss discount codes at checkout.
Petite Fallen Shoulder Midi Dress
A block colour dress is always an easy win, and in the colour of the season – or even year at this point – I have no doubt this icy blue under-£50 ASOS Petite maxi dress will be popular among wedding guests. Adding interest with the draped neckline (perfect alternative to a puff sleeve) and leg split, this midi dress will be a strong contender at a summer wedding. And even maybe as a bridesmaid dress, for all you future brides out there.
- Sizes available: 2 - 16.
- Colours: Light blue.
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If you're close to the bride, you could always wear this and be her ‘something blue’ on the big day, and even if you're not, cobalt blue is one of the colours of the year so it's bound to be a popular choice this wedding season. The cape detail on this mini dress gives a cutout effect at the arms, so it's perfect for covering the shoulders but still staying cool with your arms out.
- Sizes available: 4 - 20.
- Colours: Cobalt blue.
While & Other Stories don't technically have a petite section, I find a lot of their dresses do work for my shorter legs. Take this gingham asymmetric iteration, for example, as the length will just be slightly longer (depending on your height) and I'm not mad about a midi dress becoming a maxi dress. Plus, the summery print, Chartreuse green shade – aka the colour defining the season – and the pretty tie details means you could also wear it for a picnic in the park at a later date.
- Sizes available: 4 - 16.
- Colours: Green.
Save when you shop for the best petite wedding guest dresses with these & Other Stories discount codes at checkout.
Monochrome Polka Dot Alice Midi Dress
A dress so good, Nobody's Child created it in not one, not two but five different prints and colourways. My favourite? This contrast polka dot version. If you've got a wedding in the countryside, at a registry office or even a city ceremony then this bandeau midi dress (it also comes with straps, FYI) is ‘the one’. A midi dress that'll be your plus one to a wedding and your go-to for brunch, holidays and everything else in-between – you'll end up wearing it a lot.
- Sizes available: 4-24.
- Colours: 5 different prints and colours.
Save when you shop for the best petite wedding guest dresses with these Nobody's Child discount codes at checkout.
With one of the most extensive petite ranges on the high street, of course Boden had to be in my best petite wedding guest dress edit. Also available in the regular section, this hot pink bandeau midi dress is bound to get you noticed. The tie-front is just so chic, isn't it? Complete the wedding guest vibe by adding a pair of strappy heels and an elegant mini bag to this strapless style.
- Sizes available: 4 - 22.
- Colours: Pink and black.
Save when you shop for the best petite wedding guest dresses with these Boden discount codes at checkout.
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Aje Pandorea Appliquéd Ruffled Layered Chiffon Mini Dress
No wedding guest dress outfit guide is complete without an Aje dress, is it? The Australian brand has secured itself as an one of the best for occasionwear, and this pleated ruffle organza mini dress with halterneck detail takes the top spot for me this season. The strappy tie back detail makes sure it's even just as pretty from the back, and I love how the corsage neck midi dress is in the softest sage green. A romantic dress made for a wedding guest.
- Sizes available: 4 - 16.
- Colours: Green.
Marli Petite Corset Maxi Dress
Aussie label Forever New has killed it with this one. Ticking off a key detail (a corset - very Margot Robbie in Wuthering Heights) this slip dress shows a fresh way to wear it. The mixed materials makes this dress look more expensive and I love the strappy neckline with the long, sleek cut of the maxi dress. Add to this a square neck and it's an all round winner in my eyes.
- Sizes available: 4 - 14.
- Colours: Cobalt blue.
Noraya Silk-Satin Devoré Midi Dress
Just like jumpsuits, a midi dress will forever be one of the most universally flattering items around, and Rixo has nailed it with this very subtle floral print iteration. The double layer skirt, rounded neckline, long sleeve style is one of those occasion dresses you'll wear on heavy rotation for so many upcoming plans, not just that wedding guest invite. Plus, the long sleeves will mean you don't have to try and find a blazer or jacket to go with.
- Sizes available: 6 - 14.
- Colours: 5 different prints and colours.
Bra-Free Drop-Waist Maxi Dress
This dress had me at ‘bra-free’, to be honest. With build-in support and removable padding, this is on those dresses you can slip on easily before the wedding, and get out of just as quick when you're ready for bed at the end of the busy day. Made from a stretchy jersey fabric, this ruched maxi dress with Bardot detailing is also one you'll be super comfy in – from the nuptials through to the sit-down dinner and dancing after-dark. The best part? It also comes in regular and tall lengths.
- Sizes available: XXS - XL.
- Colours: Black.
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Okay, now this is the type of dress that's almost going to steal attention away from the bride. The halterneck liquid satin maxi dress is one that deserves all the attention it gets from the moment you walk in the venue. The no-frill style is all about the silhouette, and I love how simple, yet oh so chic it is. Round of applause for Reformation creating 360-degree perfection. Swoon.
- Sizes available: 4 - 16.
- Colours: Pink and green.
Petite Khaki Cornelli Maxi Dress
I spotted this in the ‘new in’ section at River Island, and it stopped me in my tracks. The glossy green shade with 3D jacquard flower detail feels like such a fresh take on the usual floral print dress you see at a wedding. The square neck with pretty tie-straps makes it look so much more expensive than it is, and the sheer peek-a-boo skirt gives it that slightly sexy feel that I love at a wedding abroad in the sunshine. Not into green? It also comes in chocolate brown, and in the plus size section, too.
- Sizes available: XS - L.
- Colours: Green and brown.
Save when you shop for the best petite wedding guest dresses with these River Island discount codes at checkout.
Another petite maxi dress I've seen is this sleeveless style from Hobbs. While some people still tend to steer clear of wearing black at a wedding (it's a dated rule I don't agree with), navy is a colour that looks equally as chic and extra expensive when in soft satin. Psst, a top tip is to always check the bride's colour scheme before choosing your wedding guest dress, especially because this would be such a choice for a bridesmaid dress (or even mother of the bride).
- Sizes available: 6 - 22.
- Colours: Navy.
Coral Fawn Poppy Aria Dress Petite
In one of my favourite colour combos – red + pink – I love this Never Fully Dressed punchy printed maxi dress. In regular and petite, this long sleeve style will be perfect if you don't want to have to think about taking a blazer with you, or you're just thinking ahead to an autumn wedding. Plus, it's such a fun way to wear this season's deer print trend, and floral print at the same time - mismatched prints made easy.
- Sizes available: 4 - 18.
- Colours: 5 different prints.
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By Anthropologie Lia Linen-Blend Beaded Strap Midi Dress
As a summer girl through and through, and someone who is also petite, this printed midi dress brings me endless joy. If you're bored of polka dots and floral prints, this graphic sun print dress feels like a fun alternative - especially for a wedding abroad somewhere sunny to fit the theme. I'm all for occasionwear dresses that you can get more wear out of, and I know I would wear this one on heavy rotation throughout the season, too.
- Sizes available: 6 - 16.
- Colours: Printed, black and white.
Save when you shop for the best petite wedding guest dresses with these Anthropologie discount codes at checkout.
Petite Light Green Palm Jacquard Flutter Sleeve Midi Dress
This is one of those pretty spring dresses that's so versatile. Wear the jacquard style to a wedding with matching green heels and a pink bag, then simply switch to flat sandals and a basket bag to take it on a city break. The ruffle detail shorts sleeves with the v neck is also very flattering around the neckline and arms _ well done, New Look!
- Sizes available: 4 - 16.
- Colours: Green and butter yellow.
Petite Aria Green Tulle Ruched Dress
Erm, wow. As soon as I saw this dreamy square neck midaxi dress (between a midi dress and a maxi dress) I was hoping for another wedding invite just so I could wear it. The chiffon material with ruched detail and a-line shape looks like a princess dress, but he bold green colour ticking of spring/summer's primary colour trend (as seen at Loewe and Lanvin) makes it more fashion. Wedding guest dresses don't get much better than this.
- Sizes available: 6 - 16.
- Colours: Green.
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Why you can trust me
The main reason you can trust my judgement when it comes to the best petite wedding guest dresses is because I am petite, so I've tried all of the brands I've featured in the refined edit. And secondly, as someone who has worked in fashion for 15 years, my job is to keep on top of trending styles, so I can pretty much predict which dresses (from the mini dress to a midi dress and maxi dress) are the ones worth investing in for spring/summer 2026.
And lastly, I LOVE to be overdressed for any occasion, so when it comes to the fanciest of dresses for the most special weddings in your diary, I'm ready and waiting to suggest the very best ones. Tip: I would suggest skipping more dated shift dresses, shirt dresses, wrap dresses and pleated midi dresses and instead focusing on interesting floral dresses, polka dots, ruffle details and square necklines this year.
How I tested
While I haven't tried on each of these petite wedding guest dresses in particular, I do own something from each and every one of the brands. With quality, fit and dresses that suit all different ceremony types in mind – be it a church affair, beach nuptials or somewhere nestled in the countryside – you're bound to find a dress to suit the brief. Also, weddings are expensive enough as it is to attend, so expect to find a whole range of price points so you're not having to splash the cash further, unless you want to, that is, which is where the likes of Aje, Reformation and Rixo should be your first port of call.
You can read about how we test/choose everything here.
