As I mentioned recently, Banana Republic is one of the only stores where I can find maxi dresses short enough for wearing with flats / lower shoes! I don’t mind getting alterations (they’re a fact of life for this sub-5 footer), but it always feels amazing when something just fits. I also love that Banana Republic caters to both ends of the spectrum, as the same pieces which come in petite sizing are usually offered in tall as well! I’m partnering with them today to share a few spring-ready pieces from their latest collection.
This maxi dress is designed to be ankle length, and my usual size in petites measures 50″ long, hitting right below my ankles. It feels lightweight like silk (but is machine-washable poly) and is fully lined, with an invisible back zipper. The shoulder straps have little button tabs underneath to keep your bra straps secured and concealed – it’s always a treat to discover this nifty feature! I added a sash ribbon I had lying around to break up the print and define the waistline, but would also love a thin or woven belt instead as a waist accent. For a casual top layer, try pairing a white denim jacket (I have an older version of this) or lightweight cardigan over colorful dresses.
I picked up this hat during the recent F&F; promo since I wanted a larger sun-shielding hat in white with black trim. It has a squared bow, which adds a sweet touch without being overly feminine. The L/XL was the most comfortable fit for me, but I usually buy my hats a little looser to avoid hat hair imprints. Here’s an older post on how I add DIY loops on the inside, in order to keep hats from blowing off your head!
This is a cute little leather bag, with a small pocket on the inside and a larger snap-buttoned slot on the back which fits my phone (won’t fit an iPhone plus, though). It also comes with a cross-body strap that snaps on at the backside and is adjustable. On the topic of bags, I also wanted to point out this Portofino structured tote for anyone looking for a minimalistic work bag in neutral colors. 14″ wide sounded large to me, but in-person I didn’t find it to look overwhelming on a petite frame. The leather is thick and stiffer and not a buttery soft kind, however it seems like a sturdy and functional bag for carrying around a laptop and more. It has a roomy main compartment, two slot pockets on the inside, and metal feet on the bottom.
Thank you to Banana Republic for partnering on this post.
Great dress!
Thank you!
Hi Liz – oh no, the petites must've sold out in blue online! I have seen the blue in-stores though, so it doesn't hurt to call your local store and ask.
Hi there! I used Anastasia Dipbrow pomade here in "medium brown," but in general I'd just suggest using a lighter-colored product than you'd typically expect to need. I used to use dark brown or black and finally realized how jarring it can look. I prefer medium brown shades now which look softer (and more forgiving, if you tend to apply product with a heavy hand).
I saw this in the stores.
http://www.annetega.com
This dress is gorgeous!
Xo, Kelsey | http://www.petiteinherpearls.com
This is literally spring in a picture! I'm so inspired, and anxious!!
Katie | Willow and White
I love this gorgeous dress! BR is such a great petite-friendly store. Hope they still have 00P in stock for me!
Julia・Little Miss Haute Couture
I totally agree with you on how hard it is finding a maxi dress when you are petite! Great to know Banana Republic is the place to go! I love the dress you chose, such a beautiful print and a flattering fit!
Sarah Lilly | The Lilly Mint Blog
Gorgeous gorgeous dress! <3
http://www.pamelayaquelin.com
Super cute hat!
http://www.giltedgeblog.com
Beautiful dress! I can not find this design in petite but regular. Is yours a regular or petite size? Thanks!
So pretty, thanks for sharing this! I always have such a hard time finding maxi dresses that fit w/o alteration. Now I know where to look!
insta | bloglovin’
Love this fun floral print! So pretty 🙂
-Rachel
http://thetrendytomboy.com/
This is such a beautiful dress! It's a great transition piece as well! Love it!
https://officiallychic.com/
https://www.anntaylor.com/may-patent-block-heel-sandals/428896
Beautiful as always 😉
http://www.evdaily.blogspot.com
Such a gorgeous floral print for spring!
http://styledfortheoccasion.com
This is such a lovely dress! X
http://www.thoughtsinstyle.com/
Your maxi floral dress is extremely beautiful!
xx from Bavaria/Germany, Rena
http://www.dressedwithsoul.com
What a beautiful spring look!
Random advice please – can you tell us what you use to groom your brows? The coloring compliments your highlights beautifully!
What a beautiful spring look!
Random question for you…can you tell us what you use to groom your eyebrows? Black is so harsh, and the tone of your brows compliments your highlights really beautifully!
This is such a gorgeous dress – shows off the figure so well. It'd be a nice piece to wear on my upcoming trip to Vietnam!
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Love your outfit, Jean! Can you provide details on your sandals? I've been on the hunt for a similar style, with a low enough heel that I can walk all day in.
-Ari
https://ariadneabby.wordpress.com/
Love your outfit, Jean! Can you provide details on your sandals? I've been on a hunt for that style, with a low enough heel that I can walk all day in them.
-Ari
https://ariadneabby.wordpress.com/
You look so ready for spring!
http://www.pennyanddash.com
Love the silhouette of this dress. It's paired beautifully with your accessories!
Super cute and classy!
-Kirsten // http://www.porkandcookies.com
Beautiful floral Summer look … love the straw hat too! Simply beautiful! 🙂
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