Midi dresses are one of my favorite options for early fall. They’re easy to wear while the weather is still warm, but the longer length and deeper colors make them feel a little more seasonal. Add flats now, then layer on a cardigan or jacket as the temperatures start to cool.
I recently tried three midi dresses from J.Crew Factory that come in petite sizing. Each one has a different fit and style, from a classic polka-dot dress to a burgundy shirtdress and a floral option with sleeves. I’m 4’10” and sharing how each dress fits me in petite sizing.
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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.
Smocked Boatneck Midi Dress
I have this dress in a few prints from the summer and loved seeing it come out in a brown and white polka-dot option for fall. The darker color gives it a seasonal update while the lightweight cotton fabric still works well for warmer early fall days.
The dress has a smocked boatneck top with a full midi skirt. The skirt is fully lined and has pockets, and there is a zipper closure in the back. I also appreciate that it fits me well under the arms without any extra gaping.
This dress is 100% cotton, which is another plus for me. I find the overall fit to run small, so I size up to Petite XS. I styled it simply with ballet flats and a sweater over my shoulders. As the weather gets cooler, you could easily wear the sweater instead or add a cropped cardigan.

Sweater XS | Dress Petite XS | Shoes tts | Bag
Button-Front Midi Dress
For a classic fall color, this burgundy button-front midi dress is a great option. It has a simple shirtdress style that could work for the office, church, or anywhere you want something polished but still comfortable.
This is another mostly cotton option with a touch of elastane for stretch. The buttons are fully functional all the way down the front, and there is stretch at the waist along with pockets on the skirt.
The dress is unlined, so you may want to add a slip depending on your preference. I’m wearing Petite 00 here, but I find it to be snug through the waist. Although the Petite 00 works, I think Petite 0 would ultimately be a more comfortable fit for me.

Dress Petite 00 (recommend Petite 0) | Shoes tts | Bag
Petite Smocked Midi Dress
If you prefer a dress with sleeves, this floral smocked midi dress is a pretty option for early fall.
The top is smocked and stretchy, and I especially like the proportions of the sleeves in petite sizing. The sleeve length and overall scale of the dress work well on my 4’10” frame without feeling overwhelming.
I find this dress to run small as well, so I recommend sizing up for a little more room.

Dress Petite XXS (recommend Petite XS) | Shoes tts | Bag
If you’re looking for more fall dresses for petites, check out this post and this post.



