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What is a Maxi Dress and How to Style it For a Petite Frame?

If you’ve been shying away from maxi dresses because you think your petite frame can’t pull it off, it’s time to reconsider. At Joe Browns, we're big fans of the versatility and style that maxi dresses can offer to everyone, including petite women. 

Let’s explore how petite women can rock maxi dresses and look absolutely fabulous doing so.


Alyssa Printed Maxi DressAlyssa Printed Maxi Dress
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What is a Maxi Dress?


A maxi dress is a long dress that typically reaches the ankles or the floor. Known for their comfort and versatility, maxi dresses are designed in various styles, making them suitable for casual outings and more formal events. When styled correctly, the right maxi dress can flatter any body type, including petite frames.

Discover your dream maxi dress in our collection.


The Charm Of a Maxi Dress For a Petite Woman


Contrary to popular belief, maxi dresses can be wonderfully flattering for shorter women. The key is selecting the right features that enhance a petite stature without overwhelming it. With strategic styling, you can create an elongated silhouette that flatters your petite frame beautifully.

Would a chic mini dress, a charming midi dress, or a gorgeous maxi be best for you? Our blog explains how to pick the perfect dress length for you.


Choosing the Best Maxi Dress For Petite Frames


Finding the perfect maxi dress for a petite frame can be a game-changer for both comfort and style. Here are some tailored tips to help you select the best maxi dress that not only fits well but also enhances your petite proportions.

Freya Floral Sequin Maxi DressFreya Floral Sequin Maxi Dress
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Sasha Floral Print Halterneck DressSasha Floral Print Halterneck Dress
SELECT TO SHOP SASHA FLORAL PRINT HALTERNECK DRESS

Stripe Sleeveless Maxi DressStripe Sleeveless Maxi Dress
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Santorini Blues Tie Shoulder Cotton Maxi DressSantorini Blues Tie Shoulder Cotton Maxi Dress
SELECT IMAGE TO SHOP SANTORINI BLUES TIE SHOULDER COTTON MAXI DRESS

1. Opt For Vertical Patterns and High Waists


Vertical patterns and prints are your best friends when creating the illusion of height. These designs draw the eye upwards and lengthen your silhouette, making you appear taller. 

High-waisted cuts are also incredibly flattering for petite frames as they emphasise the smallest part of your waist and extend the length of your legs. Our maxi dress collection features a variety of pieces that incorporate these elements to enhance and flatter your figure.


1. Mind the Length


The length of your maxi dress is pivotal in achieving the right look. For petite women, selecting dresses that hover just above the ground without dragging is essential. Maxi dresses that gently brush the top of your shoes are ideal as they create a neat and elegant appearance. 

This careful consideration prevents the fabric from bunching up at your feet, which can make the dress look oversized and your frame smaller.


3. Select Lightweight Fabrics


Choosing the right fabric is crucial in avoiding a bulky look. Lightweight materials such as chiffon, silk, or fine cotton blend elegance with comfort, draping beautifully without overwhelming your frame. 

These fabrics also move gracefully with you, adding a dynamic and fluid component to your outfit. They're perfect for creating a breezy, ethereal look for day and evening wear.


4. Look For Fitted Or Semi-Fitted Styles


While loose, flowing maxi dresses are popular, choosing a fitted or semi-fitted style can be more flattering for petites. These styles accentuate your natural curves without adding excess bulk. Look for dresses with a defined structure or adjustable features like a drawstring waist or shirred back to tailor the fit closer to your body shape.

Reflections Embellished Maxi DressReflections Embellished Maxi Dress
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Olivia Halterneck DressOlivia Halterneck Dress
SELECT IMAGE TO SHOP OLIVIA HALTERNECK DRESS

How to Style a Maxi Dress For Petite Women


Tropical Sunset Beaded EarringsTropical Sunset Beaded Earrings
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Accessorise Thoughtfully


Adding a belt to your maxi dress is a fantastic way to define your waist and break up the length of the dress, which can help proportion the outfit to your petite scale. Similarly, choosing the right jewellery, like long necklaces, can draw the eye vertically and add to the elongated effect of the outfit.

Check out our accessories collection today.


Wedge SandalsWedge Sandals
SELECT IMAGE TO SHOP COOLER IN THE SHADE WEDGE SANDALS

Choose the Right Footwear


Footwear can dramatically affect how a maxi dress looks on a petite frame. Heeled shoes or wedges can give you a subtle height boost, making the dress look more proportionate. Alternatively, visible footwear such as stylish sandals or chic flats that show just below the hem can also enhance the appearance of height.

Step out in style with our footwear collection.


Find the Perfect Maxi Dress at Joe Browns

At Joe Browns, we’re dedicated to helping you find fashion that fits and flatters your frame, no matter your size. Our carefully selected collection of maxi dresses is designed to make everyone feel fabulous, from the petite to the tall. Explore our range today and discover how versatile and flattering a maxi dress can be!

Keep up with the latest styling tips and trends by visiting Joe Browns blog. Let’s make every day a stylish one!


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