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As someone from South Florida, I grew up thriving in the summertime. I love just about everything about the warm season, but what tops the list is all the cute, breezy fashion. The only problem? I’m a petite girlie at 5’2″, which means free-flowing dresses can also drag on the floor or look funky on my shorter proportions. That’s why finding dresses that are designed for petite frames is like hitting the goldmine, and Quince is spreading the wealth.
Quince has a whole section filled with petite-friendly fashion, however, I’m also into finding pieces that look stunning on small frames (even if they don’t have the petite fit label). I combed through page after to page to piece together the ultimate guide for petite girl-approved summer dressing with midi dresses, swing numbers and even maxis that hit Us shorties just right. Psst, one of my favorites looks just like Hill House Home . . . you’ve been warned.
Petite-Friendly Summer Dresses at Quince
1. My Favorite: Designed specifically for petite shoppers, this tiered maxi dress hits right at the ankles to give you the perfect fit. It’s probably one of the only maxi dresses you’ll have in your closet that actually suits your frame.
2. Runner-Up: Nothing’s better than feeling cool as a cucumber on a hot summer day, which is why I’m eyeing this high-neck midi dress that’s made with 100% linen. The breathable factor alone makes this pick a must-have.
3. Everyday Ease: Whether you’re hitting the beach or lounging at home, this swing dress is up for the task. The short hem will hit close to the knee, and goes well with anything from strappy sandals to comfy sneakers. The striped print is also so Nantucket!
4. Pop of Color: Turn heads on date night when you wear this red-hot fit and flare dress. The color draws all the attention, the smocked back paneling provides comfort and the midi length is chef’s kiss.
5. Boho Babe: The ’70s look is back again for summer, and I’m so into this retro-esque smocked midi. It has wide ruffle straps, a smocked bodice and a pretty eyelet design in the shape of mini flowers.
6. Laid-Back Luxe: I can totally see myself living in this casual tiered maxi that’s easy to throw on and head out the door. The cotton gauzy material is also super soft and breathable, making it ideal for cat naps on the porch.
7. Work Essential: Casual Fridays at the office will look incredibly chic when you slip on this button-front midi. It’s conservative enough for client meetings but still looks cute for drinks post your 9 to 5.
8. Designer-Inspired: Remember the Hill House Home-looking dress I mentioned earlier? Well, this is it! I love everything about the tiered style from the flattering cinched waist to the petite-friendly length. The floral pattern adds to the style factor.
9. Double Take: Sure, this smocked midi looks eerily similar to one of my above picks, however, this one is made with ultra-light linen for that Hamptons-like energy we all crave this time of year.
10. Two-in-One: You can wear this short girl-friendly dress while running errands and picking up the kiddos from camp, but I won’t stop you from throwing it over your swimsuit on a beach day. Because it’s made with breathable linen, the dress is flowy, comfy and quick-drying.
11. Best Value: All the cool celebrities are wearing summer shirt dresses, so naturally, I’m adding this chic option to the list. You’ll look like a socialite vacationing on Martha’s Vineyard (without actually spending a fortune).
12. Wedding-Ready: Wedding guest dresses are notoriously hard to shop for. Trust me, I would know as a bridesmaid for my friend’s upcoming wedding. Skip the tailor and opt for this stretchy silk midi dress that’ll nicely fit even the shortest petite ladies.
13. Last But Not Least: What really sold me on this scoop-neck midi dress is the brown gingham pattern. It gives the classic design a fresh twist and leans into the chocolate brown trend editors are seeing everywhere this summer.
