As a petite woman, I can pretty safely say that I've experienced all the pros and cons that come with my stature. Sure, I might not be able to see over the crowd at a concert, but I know I'm the one having the last laugh when there's always ample legroom on a long-haul flight or cross-country train journey.
While there are some issues I have just learned to accept (reaching the top shelf of the kitchen cupboards is a losing battle), there are other realities I refuse to give up on. One such example is finding well-fitting clothing. Thankfully, with every passing year, there seem to be more and more options for women who stand below 5'4", which, by the way, is a large percentage of the British female population, as the average height of women in the UK is actually 5'3".
From beloved high-street brands like ASOS and M&S to in-demand contemporary labels like Reformation, now more than ever, there are labels catering specifically to those of us on the shorter side. And better yet, they're making clothes we actually want to wear.
With summer arriving, I made it my duty to track down the best petite pieces available online now to bring you a concise edit of warm-weather essentials to cover you for every occasion, from pretty midi dresses to easy linen trousers, cute skirts and smart tailoring. Keep scrolling for my favourite petite summer shopping picks.
The Best Summer Dresses for Petites
A black midi dress will never fail for summer.
I'm so glad this cute dress comes in a petite version.
It's a best seller for obvious reasons.
I checked out with this so fast.
Not specifically petite, but I tried this on recently (pictured above) and it sits at a great length on the leg for petites. Plus, it has an adjustable neckline.
Such a nice tomato red.
Such an effortless piece.
Can't beat a bit of brown for summer.
The Best Summer Trousers for Petites
Hands down the best linen trousers to ever exist (trust me, I've tried them).
I just know I'd wear these on repeat with a white tank top.
I adooore these as a really fun styling item for summer. Just throw them on with a white shirt and flip flops and voila!
The perfect warm-weather trousers to wear with chunky sandals.
You absolutely do not want these dragging on the ground and getting dirty.
It's so good to have a great pair of smart white trousers in your arsenal for summer.
So affordable.
Really easy to wear with sandals.
The Best Summer Skirts and Shorts for Petites
Finally a slip skirt that will actually fit.
Shorts are a great option for petites, an these start at size 4.
Those of you with boho style, rejoice!
A midi skirt that won't drown you.
The Best Summer Tops and Jackets For Petites
Your new favourite tank top. You're welcome.
So chic.
Such a pretty top.
Pair with smart separates for work, and throw over dresses for occasions.
I love the shorter length of this on trend waistcoat.
The Best Summer Jeans for Petites
Your new favourite pair of jeans, in short and extra short lengths.
It's so hard to find trend-led pieces like bermuda shorts that fit correctly. But that's what I'm here for!
It's so rare to find wide leg jeans specifically for petites.
So classic, you'll wear these all year round.
The Best Summer Occasionwear for Petites
This one has a party at the back.
M&S is my go-to for high street petite clothing (online has the best options so I'd advise ordering rather than heading into store and risk being disappointed.
This would be great for summer events like Wimbledon or the races.
This suit is a great summer workwear (or weding-guest) option.
For all your black tie events!
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