Midi dresses for short girls: Choose right length, cinch at waist, and other tips to style properly

The most important factor in choosing a midi dress for a shorter girl is getting the length right. (Image: Canva)

Who says short girls can't rock midi dresses? These versatile and stylish pieces are often thought to be reserved for taller women, but with the right styling tricks, they can be a total game-changer for petite figures.

Sure, midi dresses can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming, but with a few simple tweaks, you can make them work for you. From choosing the perfect length to accentuating your waistline, there are plenty of ways to make midi dresses look fabulous on shorter frames.

Here are some ways that you can style midi dresses like a pro, even if you're petite:

Choose the right length

The most important factor in choosing a midi dress for a shorter girl is getting the length right. Ideally, you want the hemline to fall just below the knee or at the slimmest part of your calf. Avoid dresses that fall mid-calf or just above the ankle, as these lengths can make your legs appear shorter.

How to choose the perfect length:

• Opt for hemlines just below the knee: This length shows off more leg, which helps elongate your frame.
• Avoid awkward mid-calf lengths: Dresses that cut off at the widest part of your calf can make your legs look shorter. Look for dresses that hit closer to the knee or just above the ankle.

Dresses that define the waist help create an elongated, hourglass silhouette, which is especially important for petite figures. A midi dress with a cinched waist or belt will emphasise your natural curves and prevent the dress from overwhelming your frame.

Tips for defining the waist:

• Belt it: Add a belt to a flowy midi dress to cinch in your waist and create a more flattering shape. This breaks up the dress and adds structure.
• Look for dresses with defined waistlines: Dresses that are fitted at the waist or have a tie belt already built-in will naturally elongate your figure and create balance.
• Empire waist styles: Dresses with an empire waist, where the waistline is just below the bust, can make your legs look longer and give the illusion of added height.

Vertical lines and patterns help create the illusion of height by drawing the eye up and down rather than side to side. This is particularly helpful for short girls looking to elongate their figure in a midi dress.

How to use vertical details:

• Vertical stripes: A midi dress with vertical stripes can make you look taller by elongating your body. Stick to thinner stripes for a more streamlined look.
• Pleats or buttons: Look for dresses with vertical pleating or a row of buttons down the centre. These design elements naturally guide the eye downward, creating a longer visual line.
• Wrap dresses: Wrap dresses, which create a V-neck and vertical line through the centre of the body, are also great for elongating your figure.

Wear heels or elevated shoes

A pair of heels or platform shoes can instantly give you a height boost and make your legs look longer, especially when wearing a midi dress. Heels not only add a few inches but also improve your posture, helping you appear taller and more confident.

Best shoe styles for midi dresses:

• Nude heels: Nude or skin-tone heels help lengthen your legs by creating an uninterrupted line from your feet to the hem of the dress. Pointed-toe heels, in particular, are great for elongating the legs.
• Platform shoes or wedges: If you prefer comfort, opt for platform sandals or wedges. These shoes offer height without the discomfort of stilettos and pair well with midi dresses.
• Heeled ankle boots: In cooler weather, heeled ankle boots are a stylish option that pairs beautifully with midi dresses. Just make sure they fit snugly around your ankles to avoid adding bulk.
• Choose a high waistline: High-waisted dresses or midi skirts with a high waistband create the illusion of longer legs. This trick works because it visually raises your waistline, making your legs look taller and your body more balanced.

• High-waisted midi skirts: Pair a high-waisted midi skirt with a fitted or tucked-in top to create a streamlined silhouette that elongates your figure.
• A-line or wrap dresses: A-line or wrap midi dresses with a high waist can also give the appearance of longer legs and a taller frame.
• Empire waist dresses: As mentioned earlier, empire waist dresses, where the waistline is higher than usual, can visually lengthen your legs.

Wearing a monochromatic outfit helps create a continuous vertical line, which can make you appear taller. Dressing in one colour from head to toe avoids breaking up your silhouette and visually elongates your frame.

Monochrome styling tips:

• Solid colours: Stick to midi dresses in solid colours, especially darker shades like black, navy, or deep earth tones. These colours create a sleek, uninterrupted look.
• Match shoes to dress: Wearing shoes in the same colour as your dress, particularly nude or neutral shades, can extend the line of your legs and give the appearance of height.
• Go tonal: If you don’t want to wear just one colour, try tonal dressing. This involves wearing different shades of the same colour family, such as pairing a light beige dress with tan heels.

V-necklines draw attention to your upper body and elongate the neck, making your overall silhouette appear taller and more balanced. Dresses with deep or moderate V-necks help create vertical lines that complement the midi length.

How to style V-necks:

• V-neck midi dresses: Opt for midi dresses with a V-neck or wrap style. This neckline opens up the chest area, creating a longer visual line and drawing attention upwards.
• Layering with V-necks: If you’re layering with a jacket or cardigan, opt for an outer layer with a V-neckline or leave it unbuttoned to maintain a vertical line through your torso.
• Avoid oversized or boxy styles: While relaxed fits are trendy, oversized or boxy midi dresses can easily overwhelm a shorter frame. Instead, choose dresses with a more fitted or tailored silhouette to highlight your shape without drowning in fabric.

• Choose tailored pieces: Look for midi dresses that skim your body without being too tight or too loose. Tailored dresses or A-line silhouettes are great for creating a balanced look.
• Go for flowing fabrics: Opt for dresses in flowy, lightweight fabrics like chiffon or silk that drape nicely over the body. These materials move with you and create a more flattering silhouette.
• Avoid excessive layers: Layering bulky pieces on top of a midi dress can shorten your frame. If you need to layer, go for a fitted jacket or cardigan that doesn’t add too much bulk.