24 Petite Summer Dress Picks From $28, Per an Editor

I never ever used to wear dresses. These days, I gravitate towards nearly all styles, letting my fashion mood (and the weather) dictate my dressing habits. The only problem? I’m 4-foot-11 and finding a dress that won’t drag on the floor (or, even worse—on the mucky NYC subway stairs) poses a serious challenge.

If you find yourself in a similar predicament, consider the carefully sourced dresses below, spanning all of the latest summer trends, from linen to halterneck, boho, drop-waist, and shirt dress styles. Better yet, tons of options (especially those up for grabs during Amazon’s huge Prime Day sale) start as low as $29. 

Best Petite Dresses Overall

Keep reading for 20 editor-approved picks from brands like Quince, Anthropologie, Amazon, Reformation, and Madewell. There’s something for every wardrobe, so you’ll find denim styles, sexy minis, sweet gingham, and so much more here. 

Merokeety Button-Down Shirt Dress

Best Linen Dresses

Linen is essential for hot, sticky months thanks to the fabric’s airy feel and easy-going styling potential. So, whether you’re jetsetting off to a tropical island or simply hanging around your hometown, the below linen styles are sure to find a place in your summer wardrobe.  

Breezy Linen Picks

Banana Republic Linen Mini Dress

I can’t get enough of the neutral-colored Banana Republic Linen Mini Dress thanks to its elevated look and comfortable fit. It can be dressed down with Mary Janes and a baseball cap or dressed up with kitten-heel sandals.   

Best Halterneck Dresses

Halterneck dresses command attention, showing off your shoulders, back, and décolletage. They’re one of the simplest ways to add a sexy touch to everyday attire whilst still working as a versatile staple for nearly any occasion.   

Flattering Halternecks

Reformation Tala Halter Dress

My favorite style is Reformation’s Tala Halter Dress. The Jennifer Lopez-approved print has me swooning, while the sweetheart neckline only further enhances its shape. Complete the look with jelly ballet flats and a front-tied cardigan for a refined finish.  

Best Boho Dresses

In case you missed it, boho is back—and the aesthetic is taking over the dress scene. IMO, there couldn’t be a more perfect style to take center stage. It’s free-spirited and fun. In other words, it’s uncomplicated—letting you embrace the true ease of bohemian spirit.

Easy-Going Boho Styles

Free People Honeysuckle Printed Midi Dress

This on-sale Free People find is equal parts sweet and whimsical thanks to a lace bodice, puffed sleeves, and ruched details. The soft floral design is the cherry on top, adding vintage charm that’ll have people thinking you found it at a local treasure trove.

Best Shirt Dresses

Living in the Big Apple, I come across a new street style trend every day. Shirt dresses have been popping up everywhere with a nautical, preppy vibe. Lucky for you and I, tons of brands have their own versions of the chic style, including Gap, Banana Republic, and Merokeety.   

Elevated Shirt Dresses

Donna Karen New York Linen-Blend Belted Midi Shirt Dress

Donna Karen New York designed favorite variation of the trend. Complete with a textured black belt, front buttons, and an A-line fit, its structured tailoring is a more sophisticated take on the trend. A spread collar and the elevated shape make it clear that this is a super high-quality find.

Best Drop-Waist Dresses

Drop-waist dresses are still very much in—just look at Kendall Jenner for proof. I understand why, since the figure-hugging design cinches the waist and elongates the frame. At this point, half of the frocks in my closet have this one detail, and I’m not mad about it.   

Figure-Enhancing Drop-Waists

Livtany Drop-Waist Midi Dress

I can’t get over the unique lime green hue this $35 Amazon dress comes in, making an already eye-catching silhouette even bolder. Hidden pockets make storing lip gloss and a slim wallet a piece of cake, while the tank-like top will make this comfortable.

These items won’t last forever, so scroll back through the story and add your favorite petite picks to your cart—or check out full sale pages for additional buying options. Then, keep scrolling for more carefully-selected editor-approved picks.

Madewell Circle Mini Denim Dress

Lillusory Knitted Bodycon Dress

Cupshe Striped Button-Down Dress

Astr the Label Linen-Blend Midi Dress