Dresses with sleeves are my favorite. You may not think so because so many of the dresses I share don’t have them, but that’s not on purpose; it’s simply what I’m able to find in my size. The summer brings us lots of sleeveless and strapless options, but with the shifting of seasons upon us, some of my favorite brands are releasing dresses with sleeves, many of which are petite-friendly. In this post, I’m rounding up a few flattering options that work beautifully for late summer days and cooler fall mornings—no hemming or alterations required!
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Petite-Friendly Dresses with Sleeves
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.
A Purple Dress with Sleeves
This purple floral dress is from LOFT. The dress features decorative buttons, a relaxed, roomy fit (you may want to size down), and a beautiful fall-ready print. The waist is not stretchy on this dress, but there is extra room at the waist. I’m wearing this dress in Petite 00.
A Light Blue Shirt Dress
A classic shirt dress from Banana Republic Factory. This cotton dress has a classic A-line shape with a tie feature at the waist. It’s beautiful. The buttons are fully functional, there are pockets, and the sleeves are a perfect length (albeit I did cuff them for styling). This dress is unlined and slightly sheer, so it’s best worn with a nude slip or nude undergarments.
A Floral Mini Dress
This mini dress is from J.Crew Factory. The dress features a smocked top, functional buttons, and subtle puff sleeves. The tiered skirt is unlined, but it’s not see-through. This dress is true to size overall. The mini length is perfect for wearing with flats, sneakers, and heels, but I would also wear this dress in regular sizing for a little extra length.
Dress Petite XXS | Shoes tts
A Tiered Block Print Midi Dress
The J.Crew Factory Dress I loved so much, I bought both prints! The fit and comfort level of this dress is a 10/10. The drawn-in waist is stretchy and opens up to a full tiered skirt. The dress is unlined, but not sheer. The short sleeves on this dress are subtly puffed for added structure at the shoulders. The dress is true to size.
Dress Petite XXS | Heels tts | Flats tts
A Denim Shirt Dress
This denim Amazon dress is popular all over social media. It looks so cute on everyone, but my first try of this dress from the Lookbook brand didn’t go well. That dress was too long and too large overall. However, like most things on Amazon, you can find the same style from multiple brands, and they will often vary in fit. I landed on an option that comes in XS, and it’s a great fit for me. A little generous through the body, but not too long. I’m wearing the dress in XS.
I originally bought these dresses for my outfits for teachers series, so it’s fair to mention that they would all be great for teachers! I styled a few of them with heels here, but they can easily be worn with comfortable flat shoes.
