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Updated Mar 06, 202524 Best Petite Formal Dresses for Weddings
Dressing up just got a whole lot easier.
Photos, left to right: Abercrombie & Fitch, Nuuly, Reformation
The pressure of figuring out what to wear as a wedding guest is real. From deciphering the dress code to find something that you feel confident in, there's a lot to consider. For those who are 5'4" and under, finding something that actually fits is an added challenge—especially when the dress code is formal.
When you think of a formal wedding dress code you might automatically assume it's black tie. However, black-tie dresses are usually synonymous with darker colors and formal wedding guest dresses have fewer restrictions when it comes to patterns and colors. These dresses might require some alterations, so head to The Knot Vendor Marketplace to find alterations near you.
For the petite ladies out there, finding a dress that doesn't swallow you or trail for miles on the ground behind you can be a struggle. However, there are certain retailers that offer petite sizing. So we've rounded up a variety of petite formal dresses you can wear to a wedding. From silky slips to bold and colorful gowns, there's something on this list for everyone. Keep reading to discover some of our favorite looks.
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Where to Buy the Best Formal Dresses for Petites
If you feel like you're regularly getting your wedding guest dresses altered, consider buying a petite formal gown or dress from a retailer that offers special sizing. They'll come much better fitted to your body—little to no alteration required. Here are a few petite-size retails we recommend:
- Abercrombie & Fitch: Your favorite store to visit while cruising the mall as a kid just got a fresh upgrade which includes wedding guest dresses in regular, petite and tall.
- ASOS: They have an entire petite section, wedding guest dresses obviously included. The best part is that a number of their looks are under $100.
- Anthropologie: They've got petite wedding guest dresses no matter your style. Lots of their looks are also on Nuuly if renting is more your vibe.
The Best Petite Formal Dresses for 2024 Weddings
Dressing for a wedding can be like solving a complicated puzzle. First you have to understand the dress code (formal vs. black tie vs. cocktail), then you have to find something that fits and you feel confident in—which is extra challenging if you're petite. Thankfully with the help of this list you'll be able to find something to look and feel great in for your next formal wedding event.
Hutch Iridescent Floral Wrap Maxi Dress
Photo: Anthropologie
One of the benefits of a formal dress code vs. black tie? You get to go bold with patterns and colors. This floral motif in an iridescent hue is formal yet playful — a fantastic combination.
Size Range: XXS-XL
Closet London Petite Cowl Neck Pleated Maxi Dress
Photo: ASOS
If you love a dress that twirls with you, this cowl neck and pleated skirt have your back. Take advantage of the ankle-length by donning a fun pair of heels.
Size Range: 0-10
Betsy & Adam Metallic Crinkle Gown
Photo: Nordstrom
We love the uniqueness of the shimmering crinkled texture on this gown and a full pooling skirt. This is a great option for a formal winter wedding.
Size Range: 2P-16P
Reformation Petites Casette Silk Dress
Photo: Reformation
There's something about a high neck that just screams formal. Add a little side ruching, a back cutout and a rich navy hue and you've got yourself a whole look.
Size Range: 0P-12P
Alex Evening One-Shoulder Gown
Photo: Nordstrom
This bright pink hue and high slit exudes femininity and sexiness. The beautifully draped straps over one shoulder also adds a touch of elegance to the look.
Size Range: 10P-16P
Xscape Ruffle One-Shoulder Mermaid Gown
Photo: Nordstrom
These festive one-shoulder ruffles reminiscent of florals make this perfect for a formal spring wedding. Plus, it comes in marine, red and blush. Take your pick.
Size Range: 4P-16P
Karen Millen Petite Marble Printed Maxi Dress
Photo: Karen Millen
When you think unique, this marbled printed dress probably doesn't immediately come to mind, which is why we love it. The flattering wrap waist, relaxed fit and open back accent are just the cherries on top.
Size Range: 0-12
ASOS Design Petite Satin Halter Maxi Dress
Photo: ASOS
When the dress code says formal but your heart says go bold this is the look for you. The colorful orange hue, silk fabric and nearly-bare back will definitely turn heads.
Size Range: 00-12
Reformation Petites Johan Satin Dress
Photo: Reformation
If you're looking to show off your curves, this fitted, bold red dress will do the trick. The folded over neckline and narrow silhouette are just two of the many details we love.
Size Range: 0P-12P
Hutch Strapless Ruffled Gown
Photo: Nuuly
This strapless ruffled gown comes in two colors: yellow with a floral pattern or a bold forest green. Whatever you choose you'll love the high-low ruffled hemline and curve-hugging fit.
Size Range: 00-14
Karen Millen Petite Premium Jacquard Woven Maxi Sleeve Dress
Photo: Karen Millen
We can't decide which detail is our favorite. From the angel sleeves and split hem to the premium jacquard fabric and subtle floral print—we declare it a four-way tie.
Size Range: 0-12
Helsa Petite Eyelet Garden Midi Dress
Photo: Revolve
For something more understated, look no further than this off-the-shoulder black dress with a back tie detail. Opt for a colorful heel or lip to add a little flare.
Size Range: XXS-XL
ML Monique Lhuillier Midsummer Sleeveless Maxi
Photo: Nuuly
The feminine, springy details are aplenty on this dress. The one-shoulder ruffle, the lavender hue, the pleated skirt, we could go on and on.
Size Range: 0P-16P
Abercrombie & Fitch Strapless Trapeze Maxi Dress
Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch
The flowier the better to dance, drink and eat in. This strapless maxi dress in glossy silk fabric comes in dark indigo, lush green and pearl (which you'll obviously want to avoid as a wedding guest).
Size Range: XXS-XL
Hutch Floral Velvet Dress
Photo: Nuuly
Your look for your next formal winter wedding? Right here. This long sleeve velvet wrap dress will keep you warm while the bold red floral pattern will keep you in style.
Size Range: XXS-XL
Abercrombie & Fitch High-Neck Draped Jumpsuit
Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch
Not big on dresses? Jumpsuits are the perfect alternative for a formal wedding. The high-neck, draping detail and wide leg pants all take this basic black jumpsuit to the next level.
Size Range: XXS-XL
Xscape Ruched Scuba Crepe Gown
Photo: Nordstrom
For a more modest look, this ruched gown features a bateau neckline, ¾ sleeves and a dramatic ruffle detail on the skirt. It's available in two colors—a deep green and versatile black.
Size Range: 4P-16P
Abercrombie & Fitch Draped Ruffle Maxi Dress
Photo: Abercrombie & Fitch
If you thought ruffles were left in the mid-2000s, you thought wrong. The cascading ruffles on this chic chiffon fabric take an otherwise run-of-the-mill black dress and elevate it.
Size Range: XXS-XL
Betsy & Adam Chiffon Floral Print Ruffle Dress
Photo: Macy's
Think florals and ruffles, but make it formal. The more subdued hues for this pattern set on a black fabric make this a more subtle, yet elegant look.
Size Range: 2P-14P
Alex Evenings Sequin Lace Cold Shoulder Trumpet Evening Gown
Photo: Nordstrom
Shimmer brighter than the stars in this metallic cold-shoulder dress. You'll glisten with elegance in this figure-flattering number. If you've got a New Year's Eve wedding on the books, add this to cart immediately.
Size Range: 6P-16P
Eliza J Floral Organza Wide Leg Jumpsuit
Photo: Macy's
Is it a jumpsuit or is it a dress? Trick question. It's both. This floral printed organza is elegantly draped over this form-fitting jumpsuit. The self-tie bow at the waist adds a pop of femininity.
Size Range: 0P-14P
Xscape Evenings Off the Shoulder Floral Appliqué Trumpet Gown
Photo: Nordstrom
This stunning trumpet gown is giving Bridgerton vibes, with its off-the-shoulder neckline and gorgeous floral puff sleeves. Available in both black and navy, this dress is sure to wow at your next formal event.
Size Range: 4P-16P
R & M Richards Sequined Gown
Photo: Macy's
If you want a little sparkle without all eyes on you, this black number will do the trick. The cuffed long sleeves and all-over sequins are the perfect way to add some personality to the look.
Size Range: 4P-14P
