Summer dresses are one of my favorite things to wear this time of year. They’re easy, comfortable, and make getting dressed on hot days effortless. I especially love finding budget-friendly options that don’t sacrifice fit.
Today I’m sharing three affordable summer dresses that work well on my 4’10” frame. The lineup includes a knee-length dress, a midi dress, and a longer midi/maxi style, so there are options for a variety of preferences and occasions. Best of all, all three pair well with flat sandals, making them easy pieces to reach for throughout the summer.
For size reference, I’m 4’10” with measurements of 32-24-36.
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3 Budget-Friendly Summer Dresses for Petites
My Sizing: I’m 4’10”, and my bust, waist, and hip measurements are 32″, 24″, and 36″. My inseam is 25″ (the measurement from the inside of my leg to my ankle bone). The clothes shown are unaltered and show how they fit me right from the store. I list my sizing beside each item to help you compare when shopping online. When referencing my true size, that is often the smallest option available at a brand or petite xxs/00/24. I wear a size 5 shoe.
Petite Nine West Cinched Waist Mini Shirt Dress (Kohl’s)
Size Worn: Petite XS
Fit: True to size
Length: Knee length
Fabric: Blend – Rayon, Nylon, Cotton, Lyocell
Lined: No, but not sheer
What I Like
This Petite Nine West dress was an immediate win for me. In fact, I prefer it to a very similar dress I recently tried from Anthropologie that costs significantly more. I prefer it over the Anthro dress simply because it fits me better at the chest and I like the longer length in petite sizing. You get the petite proportions without the dress being overly short.
Fit Notes for Petites
I’m wearing the dress in Petite XS and find it true to size overall. The shoulders, chest, and waist all fit me well without any adjustments.
Although the dress is unlined, I don’t find it sheer. The length is flattering on my 4’10” frame and pairs perfectly with flat sandals for an easy summer outfit.
Dress Petite XS | Sandals tts
Petite Simply Vera Vera Wang Belted A-Line Midi Dress (Kohl’s)
Size Worn: Petite XS
Fit: Runs slightly large through the body
Length: Midi
Fabric: Blend – rayon, nylon, linen
What I Like
The standout feature of this dress is the lightweight textured fabric and the unique color. It feels airy and breathable, making it a great choice for warm summer days.
I also love the classic A-line silhouette. The shape is easy to wear and creates a polished look that can work for everything from casual outings to summer gatherings.
Fit Notes for Petites
I’m wearing the dress in Petite XS. The length is excellent on my frame and doesn’t overwhelm me the way some midi dresses can.
That said, this style runs a little large through the body. The included belt helps create waist definition, but I still find the top portion slightly loose. If you’re between sizes, I would consider sizing down.
Despite the slightly roomy fit, the overall proportions and length work very well for petites.
Dress Petite XS | Sandals tts | Earrings
ANRABESS Women’s Summer Midi Dress (Amazon)
Size Worn: XS
Fit: True to size
Length: Midi to maxi on petites
Fabric: 100% Rayon
Lined: No, but not sheer in the color I tried
What I Like
This dress was one of those surprising Amazon finds that exceeded my expectations. The overall fit is petite-friendly, which isn’t always easy to find when shopping on Amazon.
I especially appreciate the adjustable straps, which make a huge difference when you’re under 5 feet tall. The simple silhouette feels effortless and easy to wear throughout the summer.
Fit Notes for Petites
I’m wearing the dress in XS and find it fits me well overall. The adjustable straps allow you to customize the fit through the chest and length, which helps the dress sit properly on a petite frame.
The dress also features smocking at the back, providing a little extra flexibility through the bust without sacrificing shape. Although it’s unlined, I didn’t find it sheer in the colorway I tried.
Depending on your height, this style may read as a long midi or maxi dress, but it works beautifully with flat sandals.
If you’re looking for more budget-friendly and petite-friendly dresses, check out my recent review of a few options from Target.
