The best summer dresses for petites over 50

The easiest everyday option: soft jersey, pockets, short sleeves and an above-the-knee shape, with a true proportionally shortened petite cut rather than only a shorter hem.

Worth knowing: Boden defines this petite fit for customers 5'3" and under and shortens the garment proportionally through the body. The print does most of the styling work.

The versatile maxi. A smocked waist, short sleeves, pockets and an A-line shape make it easy to wear, while Anthropologie sells the core Somerset in dedicated petite sizes.

Worth knowing: Petite stock varies by color. Check the fit selector before choosing a print rather than assuming every Somerset color is available in petite.

The polished event option. Elbow-length sleeves, a defined pleated waist and a full skirt give it more structure than a beach dress while the stretch-cotton fabric remains summer appropriate.

Worth knowing: The petite body length is 49.5 inches versus 53 inches regular. The ivory color has been reported as sheer, so a darker color is the safer choice if lining matters.