The Short Girl's Guide To Maxi Dresses

As a short girl, I spent the majority of my life avoiding any skirts that ended below my knees. The reason was a simple one, and due to the constant images of tall, long legged women wearing maxi dresses, I shied away from the style for a long time. It wasn't until recently that I gave a maxi dress a try, and knew that I couldn't survive the summer without one.

Here are a few tips and tricks so that you and your short friends can rock a maxi without looking like you're wearing a potato sack! 

1. Empire Waist

An empire waist ends just under the bust, and it creates the illusion that your legs are longer than they actually are. 

Empire Waist Maxi

2. Small Prints

If you're a petite girl, large prints can be overwhelming. Stick with small prints, or better yet, solid colors.

Tribal Print Maxi

3. V-Neck

A V Neckline not only draws attention to your face, but also shows some skin which will visually break up the fabric and give the illusion of height. 

V-Neck Maxi (in coral, blue and black)

4. Shoes

Wearing the right shoes can be important. Wear a wedge to give yourself some added height. If you are more comfortable in flats, wear a strappy sandal and avoid bulky flats or sneakers. Neutral tones that are close to your skin color will also give the illusion of longer legs.

Nude Adjustable Wedges

5. Solid Top

Wear a maxi dress with a contrasting top and bottom, preferably with an empire waistline. 

Maxi with Contrasting Top and Bottom

6. High-Low Hems

Wearing a dress with a high low hemline will show off your legs while maintaining the maxi style.

Striped High Low Maxi

Other Tips: 

Don't miss out on your favorite maxi just because it doesn't fit the above rules! Shorten the hem to give a longer maxi a better fit. 

If you are a petite girl, choose a dress that is figure flattering. A maxi that hugs your body and has a tighter fit will look best. 

Will you try a maxi dress this summer??