The Short Girl’s Guide to Maxi Dresses

I’m somewhere around 5’3″ and have been known to make some maxi magic. A great-fitting petite maxi dress can be an elusive thing, so use this guide and you’ll be on your way to boho chic in no time.

Tips for finding the perfect petite maxi dress:

1. Choose either an all-over print or a solid color. Color blocking is okay, too!
2. Check your length. I find that I like my maxis to graze my toes because I think it’s the most elongating. I use this rule whether I’m going for flats or heels.
3. A maxi with a slim silhouette and fitted bodice is a MUST. The shape and structure will give you a long column/statuesque shape, instead of going to frump-town.
4. Semi-sheer is always a good option for petite ladies, because the fabric will be less overwhelming than a bulky knit or busy print.
5. Look for petite sizes! Brands are making these in abundance, and it reduces the likelihood you’ll have to have the dress hemmed. See Tip #2.
6. I ALWAYS wear heels because of the extra length, but it’s not totally necessary. If heels aren’t your thing, don’t stress yourself out!
7. If you’re afraid of a maxi dress overwhelming your tiny frame, try a high-low dress as a test. Mullets are not generally a trend I’m sure I fully endorse, but it’s a good way to get your toes wet.

UPDATED PICKS FOR SUMMER 2014:

Some things to avoid:

Note: The average commercial model is 5’6″. And, maybe it’s me, but I think these ladies look shorter than that — their maxis aren’t doing them justice!

1. Mixing prints and solids — it breaks up the lines of your body, calling attention to each individual section, instead of the garment (and your body!) in its entirety.
2. Full skirts — the wider you get on the bottom, the shorter you’ll look overall.
3. Ankle lengths — along the same lines as #1, an ankle length dress will cut you off. I think a better look is to go for toe-grazing…preferably with heels!