I’m 5 feet 2 inches tall and am no stranger to the struggle of clothing that’s too long and ill-fitting on my shorter frame. As a fashion shopping writer, I have become a pro at finding petite clothing that fits without any alterations needed. Most recently, that includes summer dresses at Target.
I try to avoid hemming my clothing as much as possible, which typically means maxi- and even midi-length dresses are off the table. But after doing some digging at Target, I found 10 options that reviewers say are a great length for petite shoppers, and they’re all less than $45. Below, shop my lightweight, breathable picks, including eyelet, gingham, and sweater dresses that are ideal for summer and beyond starting at $20.
Petite-Friendly Summer Dresses at Target
- A New Day Tiered Maxi A-Line Dress, $35
- A New Day Smocked V-Waist Midi Dress, $35
- A New Day Eyelet Maxi A-Line Dress, $40
- 2,000+ Bought This Month: Universal Thread Openwork Midi Sweater Dress, $38
- A New Day Tube Knit Maxi Dress, $40
- A New Day Open Back Maxi Dress, $35
- Universal Thread Maxi A-Line Dress, $35
- A New Day Corset Midi A-Line Dress, $35
- Breathable Material: A New Day Knit Midi Tank Dress, $25
- Universal Thread Rib-Knit Maxi Bodycon Dress, $20
A New Day Knit Midi Tank Dress
A knit dress is an ideal piece for transitioning a wardrobe from summer to fall, and this style has a single-layered construction that shoppers confirm is breathable and thick but “not see-through.” The white trim around the neckline and straps adds a bold element to the classic dress, and I like that it has a pullover design and is made with stretchy material for comfort. At $25, I’m snagging this piece in both black and tan.
Universal Thread Openwork Midi Sweater Dress
Regardless of my plans, I like incorporating pieces into my summer wardrobe that are worthy of a tropical getaway. The pointelle design and decorative trim gives this dress a beachy style, while the cotton-blend fabric makes it a casual pick for all-day comfort. One shopper said they get “multiple compliments” each time they wear it, adding that it is ideal to “dress up or down” and “looks more expensive than it is.”
A New Day Tiered Maxi A-Line Dress
A flowy maxi dress with a tiered skirt can act as the base for so many summer outfits. When styled solo, this option from A New Day balances the fuller skirt with thin, delicate straps that are adjustable for added customization. As the temperatures cool down, though, it can be layered with a light jacket or sweater. It offers an ideal fit for one 5-foot-2-inch customer who said they’re “not tripping all over it, which is a huge plus.”
A New Day Eyelet Maxi A-Line Dress
While I love a casual dress for everyday errands, my summer wardrobe also requires a good selection of fancier picks that are equally as comfortable. This eyelet dress, which is available in black and white, has a halter neckline, A-line skirt, and two side pockets. The thicker material makes it feel “high-end,” according to one person who added that petite buyers “shouldn’t have a problem with it dragging.”
Keep scrolling to shop more petite-friendly summer dresses at Target.
A New Day Tube Knit Maxi Dress
Lands’ End Cotton Modal Sleeveless Tie-Waist Maxi Dress
A New Day Corset Midi A-Line Dress
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