From Dressy to Casual: How to Style a Sweater Dress as a Petite

It's sweater weather season! If you are a fan of dresses like I am, you definitely want to add at least one sweater dress to your wardrobe! It's a cozy cold-weather staple piece you can wear to work, date night, a family dinner, or any occasion! This essential dress is also flattering for petite figures, as it creates a long and lean silhouette. However, styling a sweater dress for your petite frame can be tricky, as you don't want to look too bulky or frumpy. When choosing one, a basic rule as a petite is to find a style with the right balance of room that hits right to or above the knee (unless you're choosing a midi or maxi style). Now it’s time to get inspired with some chic outfit ideas that will make you look fabulous while feeling confident in this season's must-have sweater dress!

Want to find petite sweater dresses to add to your wardrobe? Request your next Short Story box today!

Belt it Up

One of the easiest ways to define your waist and create some curves is to add a belt to your sweater dress. It's the perfect styling trick that instantly creates a flattering silhouette when you feel like your sweater dress is overwhelming your petite frame. You can choose a thin or a thick belt, depending on your preference and the style of the dress. Thin styles are a flattering choice for petites!

A belt will also help to shorten the length of your dress if it's too long for your frame. Pair your belted sweater dress with some boots, flats, or heels, depending on the occasion and the weather.

Layer it

Layering your sweater dress is another chic way to add fashionable flair. This can add some contrast and interest to your outfit, as well as keep you warm in colder weather. Cropped layers can highlight and flatter your waistline and won't add bulk which is important when wearing a sweater dress as a petite.

You can also play with different colors, patterns, and textures to create a unique look. For instance, you can layer on a moto jacket over your sweater dress and pair it with some combat boots for an edgy vibe. For any preppy petite fashionistas, try a puffer vest! Go glam by opting for a faux fur vest. Layering is another fun and chic way to show off your individual style!

Choose Boots

Boots paired with a sweater dress are practically a cold-weather uniform that works especially well for petites since this elongates your legs. Choosing boots that match the color of your dress or your tights will create a seamless line. This is a sure way to give off the illusion of a longer, leaner silhouette. You can choose any type of boots you like, from ankle boots to knee or thigh-high boots, depending on the length of your dress and the weather.

For example, you could wear ankle or thigh-high boots with a mini sweater dress, or knee-high boots with a midi sweater dress. Add some drama and flair to your outfit by opting for a bold color or printed pair to complete your sweater dress outfit!

Pair With Leggings or Tights

Leggings and tights are both chic options to wear under a sweater dress. Plus, they will keep you warm! You can choose any color or pattern of leggings that match your sweater dress. When choosing tights or nylons as a petite, opt for a pair that leans more on the sheer side instead of a solid black that can create a choppy look, shortening your legs.

Pair leggings with your favorite accessories! For a dressier option, style your sweater dress with tights, a satchel, and heels for a more feminine and elegant option that works well for occasions like work or a dinner night out!

Accessorize it

One of the simplest ways to add some style to a sweater dress is to add some accessories to spice up your outfit. You can choose accessories that suit your personality and the occasion, such as jewelry, scarves, hats, sunglasses, bags, textured tights, or shoes. Accessories can also help you create different moods and themes for your outfit, such as elegant, edgy, glam, or sporty.

Avoid large, oversized bags as well as thick scarves which can overwhelm your petite frame rather than flatter it. There are so many fun accessories to choose from so if you feel overwhelmed, our stylists here at Short Story will be happy to create a tailored look just for you!

These are just some of the many different ways you can style a sweater dress for your petite frame. The key is to find a sweater dress that fits you well, flatters your figure, and suits your style! Then it's all about having fun experimenting with different combinations and creating outfits showing off your unique style that makes you feel confident and cozy.

Are you ready to add a sweater dress to your closet? Sign up for your next Short Story box and one of our talented stylists will send a petite-friendly style your way!

Follow us on Instagram @shortstorybox and tag us at #shortstorybox

*Cover photo: Petiteelliee