Winter weddings and holiday parties are some of the most elegant events of the year—and they deserve a dress that makes you feel just as elegant. But if you’re petite, finding the right formal dress can feel impossible. Too long, too heavy, or just plain overwhelming. I’ve been there.
This season, I found a dress that checks every box: the Somerset Velvet Maxi Dress from Anthropologie. It’s luxurious, flattering, and—most importantly—it actually works for petite frames. Today, I’m breaking down why this dress is perfect for winter occasions, how to style it, and what to look for when shopping for petite formal dresses.
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✨ What You’ll Find in This Post
Here’s what I’m covering today:
- 👗 Why the Somerset Velvet Maxi Dress works for petites
- 📏 Styling tips for petite frames at formal events
- 💃 How to dress for your petite body type
- 🛍️ A roundup of other beautiful petite winter occasion dresses
- ❓ Your FAQs answered
Why I Love the Somerset Velvet Maxi Dress
Let me start by saying: this dress is stunning. The Somerset Velvet Maxi Dress from Anthropologie is one of those rare finds that looks expensive, feels comfortable, and actually flatters a petite frame.
Here’s why it works:
The Fabric: Luxurious Velvet
Velvet is THE fabric for winter formal events. It’s rich, elegant, and photographs beautifully. The Somerset dress uses a lightweight velvet that drapes without adding bulk—key for petites. It’s soft to the touch and has just enough stretch for comfort.
Shop My Look
The Fit: Smocked Waist
The smocked elastic waist is a game-changer. It cinches at the narrowest part of your torso, creating definition without feeling tight. For petites, this waist definition is essential—it keeps the dress from overwhelming your frame. You might recall a petite fall wedding guest dress I featured last year, it’s also from the Somerset Collection at Anthro. I love the comfort factor of the smocked elastic waists of the dresses in this collection. Puls, it has pockets!
Somerset Velvet Maxi Dress | Sculpted Metal Wristlet Bag | Schutz Mikki Up Boots | Similar Crystal Necklace
The Length: Actually Works for Petites
This maxi dress hits at the right spot when paired with heels. It’s long enough to feel formal and elegant, but doesn’t drag on the floor. I’m 5’0″ and wearing it with 3-inch heeled boots—no hemming needed.
The Details: Flutter Sleeves and V-Neck
The flutter sleeves add a romantic touch without adding bulk to your shoulders. The V-neckline elongates and flatters, especially when paired with a statement necklace.
The Print: Rich and Sophisticated
The navy blue floral print feels festive without being overly trendy. The jewel-toned florals pop against the dark background, making it perfect for winter weddings, holiday parties, and special occasions. And since the print is lively and festive without being overly holiday, this dress works beautifully for weddings, New Year’s Eve, or any other winter occasion this year.
How I Styled It
My Complete Look
- Somerset Velvet Maxi Dress from Anthropologie
- Schutz Mikki Up Boots — black heeled ankle boots with a pointed toe
- Sculpted Metal Wristlet Bag — a sleek black clutch with gold hardware
- Crystal Necklace (similar style linked) — adds sparkle without overwhelming
✨ Kelly’s Petite Style Tip: When wearing a maxi dress, always add a heel or heeled boot. It creates a long, unbroken line from hip to toe and prevents the dress from overwhelming your frame.
Styling Tips for Petite Frames at Formal Events
Winter formal events can be tricky for petites. Here’s how to look polished and proportionate:
1. Choose Dresses with Waist Definition
Whether it’s a smocked waist, a belt, or a seam at the natural waist, definition is key. It creates shape and prevents the dress from looking like a shapeless sack.
What works:
- Smocked or elastic waists (like the Somerset Dress)
- Belted styles
- Empire waists
- Fit-and-flare silhouettes
What to avoid:
- Completely straight, shapeless dresses
- Drop-waist styles (they shorten your legs)
2. Pay Attention to Length
The right length makes all the difference. For petites:
- Maxi dresses: Should skim the floor with heels, not puddle
- Midi dresses: Should hit mid-calf, not awkwardly at the widest part of your calf
- Mini/knee-length: Can work for less formal events
✨ Kelly’s Petite Style Tip: If a dress is slightly too long, take it to a tailor. A simple hem can transform a dress from “meh” to perfect.
3. Add Vertical Lines with Accessories
Long necklaces, vertical seams, and V-necklines all help elongate your frame. Avoid anything that cuts you horizontally (like wide belts placed too high or too low).
Somerset Velvet Maxi Dress | Sculpted Metal Wristlet Bag | Schutz Mikki Up Boots | Similar Crystal Necklace
4. Choose the Right Shoes
Your shoes matter more than you think. Here’s what works:
- Pointed-toe heels or boots — elongate the leg
- Nude or black heels — create an unbroken line
- Heeled ankle boots — add height without feeling too dressy
What to avoid:
- Flats with a maxi dress (unless you’re very tall for a petite)
- Ankle straps (they cut the leg line)
- Chunky, heavy boots that compete with the dress
5. Keep Accessories Proportionate
Small to medium bags work best for petites. Oversized clutches or totes can overwhelm your frame. I’m carrying a sleek wristlet that’s just big enough for essentials—phone, lipstick, and keys. I love the Sculpted Metal Wristlet Bag from Madewell; its dual design lets you customize your look – and it comes in a wide range of colors!
6. Don’t Forget Jewelry
A statement necklace draws the eye up and adds sparkle for evening events. I’m wearing a crystal necklace that catches the light beautifully. Choose jewelry that feels special but doesn’t overpower you.
Shop My Look
- Somerset Velvet Maxi Dress
- Sculpted Metal Wristlet Bag
- Schutz Mikki Up Boots
- Similar Crystal Necklace
✨ Kelly’s Petite Style Tip: If your dress has a busy print or texture (like velvet), keep jewelry simple and let the dress shine.
Dressing for Your Petite Body Type
Not all petite bodies are the same. Here’s how to find the most flattering dress for your shape:
For Petite Hourglass Figures
Best styles:
What to look for: Dresses that highlight your waist and balance your proportions.
For Petite Pear Shapes
Best styles:
- A-line skirts
- Dresses with embellished or detailed bodices
- V-necks or off-shoulder styles
- Darker colors on the bottom, lighter on top
What to look for: Styles that draw attention upward and skim over hips.
For Petite Apple Shapes
Best styles:
What to look for: Dresses that create a waist and don’t cling to your midsection.
For Petite Athletic/Straight Builds
Best styles:
- Dresses with ruffles, pleats, or texture
- Peplum details
- Smocked waists (like the Somerset dress)
- Prints and patterns
What to look for: Styles that add curves and definition.
For Petite Inverted Triangle Shapes
Best styles:
What to look for: Balance broad shoulders with volume on the bottom.
More Petite Winter Wedding Guest Dresses
While the Somerset Velvet Maxi Dress is my top pick, here are other beautiful options for petite winter occasions:
What to Look for When Shopping for Petite Formal Dresses
Not sure where to start? Here’s your petite formal dress shopping checklist:
✓ Waist Definition
Look for dresses with seams, belts, or smocking at the waist.
✓ Proper Proportions
Check the length, sleeve length, and bodice fit. Petite-specific sizing is always a plus.
✓ Quality Fabrics
For winter events, look for velvet, silk, satin, or crepe. These drape beautifully and photograph well.
✓ Flattering Necklines
V-necks, scoop necks, and sweetheart necklines elongate.
✓ Appropriate Length
Midi or maxi lengths work for formal events. Make sure they hit at the right spot for your height.
✓ Color and Print
Rich jewel tones, classic black, or elegant prints work beautifully for winter occasions.
Colors and Prints for Winter Occasions
What’s trending for winter 2025:
- Velvet in jewel tones: Emerald, sapphire, ruby, amethyst
- Classic black: Always elegant, always appropriate
- Rich burgundy and wine: Perfect for the season
- Navy blue: Sophisticated and flattering
- Metallics: Gold, silver, bronze for evening events
✨ Kelly’s Petite Style Tip: Darker colors are naturally slimming and elongating—perfect for petites. If you want to wear a lighter color, keep accessories minimal and streamlined.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake #1: Wearing a Dress That’s Too Long
Why it doesn’t work: It overwhelms your frame and makes you look shorter.
The fix: Have it hemmed or choose petite-specific sizing.
Mistake #2: Choosing Shapeless Styles
Why it doesn’t work: Without waist definition, you lose your proportions.
The fix: Look for fitted bodices, belted styles, or smocked waists.
Mistake #3: Wearing Flats with a Maxi Dress
Why it doesn’t work: Unless you’re tall, flats with a maxi dress shorten your legs.
The fix: Add a heel or heeled boot to create length.
Mistake #4: Overdoing Accessories
Why it doesn’t work: Too many accessories can overwhelm a petite frame.
The fix: Choose one statement piece (necklace, earrings, or clutch) and keep the rest simple.
Mistake #5: Ignoring Fabric
Why it doesn’t work: Heavy, stiff fabrics add bulk. Clingy fabrics show everything.
The fix: Choose fabrics that drape and flow, like velvet, silk, or chiffon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Petite Winter Wedding Guest Dresses
Q1: Can petites wear maxi dresses?
Absolutely! The key is finding the right length and adding heels. Look for petite-specific sizing or be willing to have the hem adjusted.
Q2: What length dress is most flattering for petites?
Midi dresses (hitting mid-calf) and properly hemmed maxis work beautifully. Avoid lengths that hit at the widest part of your calf.
Q3: Should petites wear heels with formal dresses?
Heels help create a long, lean line, especially with maxi dresses. Even a small heel (2-3 inches) makes a big difference.
Q4: Can petites wear bold prints?
Yes! Just make sure the print isn’t oversized (which can overwhelm). The Somerset dress has a floral print that’s scaled beautifully for petites.
Q5: What colors are best for petite formal dresses?
Darker colors (navy, black, burgundy, emerald) are naturally elongating. Jewel tones are especially flattering for winter events.
Q6: Where can I find petite formal dresses?
Anthropologie, Nordstrom, Ann Tayor, and Talbots all carry petite-specific sizing or adjustable styles.
Q7: How do I accessorize a velvet dress?
Keep it simple. Velvet is already luxurious, so add a statement necklace or earrings, a sleek clutch, and elegant heels.
Closing Thoughts
Finding the perfect petite winter wedding guest dress doesn’t have to be difficult. The Somerset Velvet Maxi Dress from Anthropologie is proof that when the fit, fabric, and details align, a dress can be both elegant and flattering for petites.
Remember the key principles: waist definition, proper length, and the right shoes. When you get these elements right, you’ll feel confident and polished at every winter event.
What’s your biggest challenge when shopping for petite formal dresses? Drop your questions in the comments below! 👇
And don’t forget to sign up for Style at a Certain Age emails here.
Related Posts You’ll Love:
- The Petite Winter Outfit Formula That Always Works
- Winter Wardrobe Essentials for Women Over 50
- Best Winter Coats for Women Over 50
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