25 Petite Wedding Guest Dresses You’ll Want to Add to Basket
Make a statement, whatever the season, in one of the 25 best dresses for petite wedding guests to shop right now – no alterations required!
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Scoring a wedding guest dress for the next wedding in your calendar should be a fun and exciting task but if you're of a shorter frame we understand that it can sometimes feel a little frustrating as petite wedding guest dresses aren't always easy to come by.
But fear not, as we're here to show you that it doesn't have to be stressful, with our round-up of the best petite dresses for wedding guests available to buy right now.
Whether the wedding you're attending requires more formal attire, or you're on the hunt for a relaxed and casual fit, we've included options that won't need to be taken up which eliminates the hassle and extra cost of having to have your outfit altered.
25 of the Best Petite Wedding Guest Dresses
We have gorgeous petite mini wedding guest dresses, as well as long flowing maxis, but we also know that a petite midi wedding guest dress is often the hardest style to find, as a design that falls right above or below the knee might run too long on a shorter silhouette – so we've got you covered on that front too.
The below looks are all specifically designed to flatter those 5'3 or under and many of them can be worn for all seasons.
Petite Mini Wedding Guest Dresses Find the perfect petite mini wedding guest dresses here, with styles that are guaranteed to give you a figure-flattering fit that you won’t need to take up.
1. Petite Tie-Back Angel-Sleeve Pleated Mini Dress – ASOS
With its angel sleeves, cute pleats and delicate floral embroidery, this cornflower-blue number, £48 from ASOS Design, is everything you want in a summer-ready wedding guest dress. A fun cocktail option that makes a glamorous statement.
- Sizing: 2-16
- Expert take: The wrap style and tie waist offer a flattering silhouette, while the lightweight, chiffon fabric will keep you cool in the warmer months.
2. Petite High-Neck Smock Dress – Boohoo
A perfect example of how to bring the mini (and florals) into autumn/winter territory, we adore the universally flattering high neck and sheer balloon sleeves on this smock dress, £22 from Boohoo. The style will work across all seasons and occasions, too – just switch up your footwear and accessories.
- Sizing: 6-16
- Expert take: Pair this dress with heels for a wedding, then switch it up for date night with knee-high or stomper boots.
3. Short Red Fluted Sleeve Shift Dress – Sosandar
Now as much of a classic as the LBD, a fiery red cocktail dress is a wedding-wardrobe staple, and we love this knee-length number, £75 from Sosandar, for petite wedding guests. The shift shape is as flattering and comfortable as it is elegant – all the better for dancing in.
- Sizing: 6-20
- Expert take: It’s a simple silhouette but the design elements are everything on this dress – we’re looking at you, gold tab neck detail and fluted sleeves.
4. Petite Floral Puff Sleeve Mini Dress – Nobody’s Child
Who says you can't wear black to a wedding? Nobody’s Child offers a great selection of dresses for petite frames – and this floral puff-sleeve mini, £49, is no exception. The blossoming marigold print elevates the look and makes it a sweet option for a relaxed and informal celebration.
- Sizing: 4-18
- Expert take: We love a double-duty purchase, and this can be dressed up or down for maximum cost per wear. It’ll look as great with white trainers as it will dressed up with heels and a Chanel bag (okay, we can dream about the Chanel bag – but any cute clutch will work).
Petite Midi Wedding Guest Dresses
If you’re on the hunt for a petite midi dress for a wedding, you’ll love these selections with something for every season and style.
5. Coast Petite Bardot Midi Dress – Debenhams
If one thing is true, it’s that a Bardot-style neckline is always flattering. Team it with a fabulous print, and you have yourself a fail-safe guest dress option, no matter the season or wedding style. The playful print and bow detail on this midi dress, £179 from Coast, modernises a classic silhouette.
- Sizing: 4-18
- Expert take: If blue isn’t for you, look out for similar shapes from Coast in other prints and colourways.
6. Quiz Petite Tie Dye Strappy Midi Dress – New Look
Looking for a destination wedding guest dress? We think this petite tie-dye dress, £39.99 from Quiz Clothing, would be perfect. Not only is the joyful print reminiscent of lemon groves, but the quality fabric makes this feel much more expensive than it actually is.
- Sizing: 6-16
- Expert take: Even if you’re not jetting off to a beach celebration any time soon, this would still make a statement summer wedding guest 'fit for right here in the UK.
7. Oasis Petite Lace Sleeveless Midaxi Dress – Debenhams
How pretty is the lace detailing on this sleeveless midaxi dress from Oasis? Great for the wedding circuit, but we can also see this at barbecues and summer brunch get-togethers when teamed with a pair of white trainers.
- Sizing: 6-18
- Expert take: The ankle-grazing midaxi length won’t overwhelm a petite frame and is still the perfect way to show off a pair of statement shoes.
8. Petite Asymmetric Ruffle Midi Dress – ASOS
We love how the dobby fabric gives this ruffled midi dress, £52 from ASOS Design, a super interesting texture – and the delectable summer hue perfectly nails the trend for sherbet lemon dressing.
- Sizing: 2-16
- Expert take: A tiered skirt can sometimes overwhelm a petite frame, but this dress has perfected the look by drawing the eye towards the V-shaped neckline.
9. Petite Jacquard Midi Dress – Whistles
We can’t get enough of blue – and neither can the high street. This vibrant jacquard midi dress, £189 from Whistles, definitely packs a punch while looking elegant and polished. Team with silver accessories for effortless glam.
- Sizing: 6-20
- Expert take: The snakeskin-inspired texture elevates the simple shape, and the sleeves are great for those who want more coverage.
10. Cotton Midi Tea Dress – Boden
Why pick one colour when you can have the rainbow? Made from cool cotton fabric, this playful tea dress, £110 from Boden, is perfect for relaxed celebrations, whether you’re sipping fizz in manicured gardens or frolicking at a festival-inspired do. Oh, and did we mention it has pockets?
- Sizing: 6-16
- Expert take: The fit and flare silhouette combined with the cute cap sleeves and under-bust panelling ensure this is as flattering and comfortable as it is fun.
Petite Maxi Wedding Guest Dresses
If you’re more of a maxi person, you’ll know how tricky it can be to find petite maxi wedding guest dresses that fit well. These are our top picks to shop now.
11. Petite Trailing Floral Woven Maxi Dress – Karen Millen
Even if the wedding isn’t taking place in a garden, you can still dress like it is in this work-of-art woven maxi dress from Karen Millen. The blouson sleeves will undoubtedly be a talking point, and the perfectly in proportion fit means you can wear with either flats or heels.
- Sizing: 4-16
- Expert take: If you love the print but aren’t feeling the length, you can also pick up a high-neck mini dress version.
12. Petite Scoop Neck Maxi Dress – Nasty Gal
For those who love a simple silhouette, this scoop-neck maxi dress from Nasty Gal’s premium range makes a chic a wedding guest dress when paired with sandals or block heels. The (not too deep) scoop back means you can still show a little skin.
- Sizing: 4-14
- Expert take: We love an uncomplicated option that you can just throw on and go – this upgrade on a summer slip means you can be experimental with accessories, too.
13. Petite Ruffle Cut-Out Maxi Dress – ASOS
If you can’t decide between a midi or a maxi, this fabulous floral dress from ASOS Design is a great combination of the two with its high-low hem. It also boasts an off-the-shoulder style and cut-out sides for extra glam.
- Sizing: 2-16
- Expert take: If the cut-out detail makes you feel too exposed or cold, or you just want to cover up for the ceremony, a slip or bodystocking underneath could work well.
14. Petite Floral Pleat Maxi Dress – Phase Eight
Phase Eight always delivers when it comes to wedding guest dresses and, in particular, dresses for petite frames. This floral maxi, £169, is one of our favourites from another excellent new-season collection.
- Sizing: 6-20
- Expert take: Meadowy motif? Check. Blousy sleeves? Check. Flattering wrap bodice? Check. This dress exudes romance.
15. Pink Floral Sequin Slip Maxi Dress – River Island
We love the detail that has gone into this sleek slip dress from River Island, including the sequins which elevate the gorgeous floral print. The barely-there spaghetti straps are adjustable, so it can be worn to fit different chest sizes comfortably.
- Sizing: 4-16
- Expert take: There are so many colours to pick out from this dress. Go bold and pair yours with clashing orange or pink sandals, or tone down the look with metallic or neutral accessories.
Petite Wedding Guest Dresses for Over 50
There’s no hard and fast rules for older guests, of course, and these petite wedding guest dresses will ensure wedding-goers of all ages look and feel amazing.
16. Petite Silk Dress – Hobbs
This silk floral dress has all the style and sophistication that we love about pieces from Hobbs. As well as being a great wedding guest dress, this would make a lovely mother of the bride dress or mother of the groom dress.
- Sizing: 6-20
- Expert take: It’s an investment piece, for sure, but this piece is so timeless and versatile it won’t just be relegated to the back of your wardrobe for special occasions – so we think the cost per wear will be more than worth it.
17. Petite Tapework Midi Dress – Phase Eight
Another Phase Eight number, this time a delicate tapework lace design in pale pink with the prettiest open-back detailing and round neckline. Just like the Hobbs dress above, this would make a great mother of the bride or groom outfit.
- Sizing: 6-20
- Expert take: It’s a classic choice but the sleeveless silhouette and open keyhole back give this dress a modern edge.
18. Petite Satin Asymmetric Woven Midi Dress – Karen Millen
With its draped cowl neck, languid asymmetric hemline, and long sleeves, this vibrant green satin midi dress oozes elegance. Pair with a statement headpiece or earrings for ultimate wow-factor.
- Sizing: 4-16
- Expert take: The high neck and rich texture of this dress make it perfect for an autumn/winter wedding. Just drape a coat over your shoulders and add party shoes.
19. Petite Sequin Trim Chiffon Cape Dress – Roman Originals
If you’re not a fan of midi or maxi silhouettes, the cape coverage on this chiffon dress gives you the freedom to bare your legs without feeling too exposed – and we love the beaded trim around the neckline. It also comes in pale pink.
- Sizing: 8-18
- Expert take: The fit and flare skirt is fully lined for comfort, while keeping you cool and breezy in light-as-a-feather fabric.
20. Petite Satin Stripe Midaxi Dress – River Island
For a relaxed yet flattering fit, this satin striped dress, £60 from River Island, has a beautiful drape that allows you to move freely, while the fluted sleeves and optional tie belt (not pictured) ensure maximum comfort.
- Sizing: 4-16
- Expert take: Give this style a summery upgrade by pairing with natural makeup and sandals.
Designer Petite Wedding Guest Dresses
After a high-end wedding guest dress (perhaps to match your designer heels)? We’ve understood the assignment. Just scroll down to see our top picks.
21. V-Neck Long Sleeve Dress – Aspiga
London-based fashion label Aspiga creates timeless and feminine made-to-last pieces that’ll fast become your go-to staples whatever the occasion. If you’re looking for a bold wedding guest choice, the cornflower-blue Victoria dress, made from sustainably sourced cotton corduroy, will look utterly effortless for an autumn/winter celebration.
- Sizing: XS-XL
- Expert take: We, for one, couldn’t be happier about corduroy’s modern makeover and this versatile dress will play double duty in your wardrobe all season long. Go from formal to casual in seconds simply by changing up your footwear.
22. Petite Tie-Strap Dress – Reformation
For A-list approved options, petite wedding guests can’t go wrong with a dress from Reformation, and though the options are vast, we’ve fallen hard for this slim-fit floral number, complete with sweetheart neckline, tie straps and side slit in the skirt that’ll take you perfectly from day to night.
- Sizing: 4-16
- Expert take: The back smocking gives this dress just the right amount of stretch and ensures it’s a comfortable fit all day.
23. Printed Open-Back Midi Dress – Reiss
The perfect spring wedding dress does indeed exist in the form of this open-back midi dress from Reiss. The floaty asymmetric hem pairs perfectly with the classic floral print – it’s also available in two other colourways.
- Sizing: 4-18
- Expert take: We love the way this dress subtly flairs out from the hips for an easy-breezy, flattering fit.
24. Petite Lilac Twist Neck Maxi Dress – Ro&Zo
Cut in a lightweight woven-crepe fabric, this sleek lilac dress from Ro&Zo is timeless and will skim the body beautifully thanks to the gathered waist panels. It’s demure, but the puff sleeve and side split give it an edge. We think this would look great with a pair of statement earrings.
- Sizing: 6-16
- Expert take: Love the cut but not the colour? This design also comes in a statement floral print to liven up your wedding wardrobe.
25. Printed Front Split Midi Dress – Reiss
Reiss understands the value of a quality printed midi and has really pulled it out the bag with this stunning ivory, red and burgundy dress. The easy-to-wear trapeze shape makes it a great throw-on-and-go option for every kind of occasion.
- Sizing: 4-16
- Expert take: The front split and split sleeves give this dress real movement – it’ll look even more breath-taking on the dancefloor!
Where to Buy Petite Wedding Guest Dresses Online?
Although your options can be more limited when shopping for petite wedding guest dresses, there are still lots of shops online where you can find stylish and practical looks if you are 5'3 or under.
“At 5’3, I’m considered petite, so I can appreciate first hand some of the challenges that come with finding great dresses – commonly sleeve and hem length, as well as the cut of the torso,” says fashion stylist and artist Yvadney Davis.
“However, there are some brands out there right now doing great things. You can’t beat ASOS, Marks & Spencer and Boden for affordable and stylish petite ranges, including dresses and wedding guest jumpsuits, but I also love Whistles for its sensual minimalism and fashion rental platforms like Cloan for truly exceptional pieces,” she adds.
For something a bit more formal, brands like Oasis, Warehouse, and Karen Millen all have plenty to offer, and you’ll also find brands such as Reformation, Reiss and Hobbs which offer beautiful outfits for a shorter frame if you have a little more of a budget to spend on your petite wedding guest dress.
Now you have your outfit sorted it's time to think about what wedding gift you want to give the happy couple!
