The holidays make it easy to go glam, thanks to all the luxe fabrics, sequins, and shine this season brings. In today’s post, I’m sharing three dresses perfect for a cocktail-attire holiday event—each one festive, elegant, and petite-friendly.
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Three Glam Holiday 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.
I actually found all three dresses at Victoria’s Secret, which surprised me too. I’m used to shopping there for my favorite bras, fragrance, and cozy pajamas, but I hadn’t paid much attention to their clothing selection. In addition to their own line, they also carry brands I already love, like Good American and ASTR. One of the dresses in this post is from Victoria’s Secret, and the other two are by ASTR.
Because they were included in the Cyber Weekend promos, inventory at VS sold out quickly—but good news: I tracked them down on the brand websites so you can still shop them.
Victoria’s Secret Low Back Maxi Dress
IIt’s the color and shine of this dress that immediately caught my eye. I’m wearing it in XS, and it’s made from a double-lined, bodycon stretch fabric. Because of the material, I was able to pull the fabric up slightly and ruche it at the waist, which adds a little forgiveness through the midsection and also shortens the length. Worn fully extended, it would be too long on my 4’10” frame. (I’m also wearing 3″ heels)
With the clingy fabric, I recommend pairing it with shapewear—my go-to is the Spanx shorts. The dress has a low back and wide-set shoulders, but it includes built-in bra cups, so you won’t need a separate bra. One note: the skirt is a bit restrictive when walking, so I do give it a small pull upward before moving around—just full disclosure!
ASTR Karyme Polka Dot Bustier Dress
If there were ever a time to pull off a fun tulle dress, it’s the holidays. This one gives major Carrie Bradshaw vibes in the best way. The multiple layers of tulle create a full, floaty skirt, and the velvet tie straps let you adjust the fit perfectly. I’m wearing it in XS, and the length hits close to my ankles, so it’s best paired with heels to balance the proportions on a petite frame.
The bodice fits me well and offers light support with structured cups, so you can easily go braless if you prefer. The pleated top and supported bodice keep the dress feeling secure while still looking soft and romantic.
ASTR Blythe Metallic Dress
I’ve styled the Blythe dress in several prints over the years, so when I saw this metallic version, I knew it would be perfect for the holidays. The midi length fits more like a maxi on my 4’10” frame, but the adjustable straps make it easy to raise the dress to a more petite-friendly length. The straps cross in the back and tie, which is a beautiful detail, but it does mean you can’t wear a traditional bra with this style.
The dress is true to size, and the all-over pleats give it great movement and an elevated, festive look.
I hope this roundup helps you find a dress you feel confident and glamorous in for your next holiday event. As always, I’ve shared my sizing and fit notes to make shopping as simple as possible for my fellow petites.
