Alex Marie Petite Dresses

Are you looking for the perfect petite dress that is both stylish and comfortable? Alex Marie designs beautiful, high quality petite dresses that are made to flatter. I’ve been a huge fan of Alex Marie’s petite collection for years and have compiled this extensive buying guide to help you find your next favorite petite dress from Alex Marie!

An Introduction to Alex Marie Petite Dresses

Alex Marie is a women’s clothing brand that specializes in dresses, tops, bottoms, and suits for petite women. The Alex Marie petite dress collection features timeless silhouettes and styles that are designed to be flattering on petite figures.

The brand uses high quality fabrics like premium cotton, ponte knit, lace, chiffon, and satin to create pieces that drape beautifully on a smaller frame. The versatile and sophisticated petite dresses from Alex Marie can be dressed up or down seamlessly.

In this buying guide, I’ll be sharing details on:

• The different styles of Alex Marie petite dresses
• Where to buy Alex Marie petite dresses
• Fit, sizing, and fabric details
• Cost and value comparisons
• Care instructions
• Styling tips and pairing ideas

Let’s dive in to find your perfect Alex Marie petite dress!

Styles of Alex Marie Petite Dresses

Alex Marie offers a wide range of styles for their petite dresses so you can find options for any occasion. Here are some of the most popular silhouettes and styles:

• Shift dresses: These straight cut dresses skim the silhouette gracefully. They have a classic mood and come in both solid colors and prints.
• Wrap dresses: Flattering wrap silhouettes that cinch the waist. These dresses come in jersey, chiffon, and more.
• A-line dresses: These have a nipped waist and softly flared skirt. An A-line silhouette flatters most body types.
• Skater dresses: Fitted at the top with a bouncy skater skirt, these are fun and flirty. Perfect for date nights!
• Maxi dresses: Elegant floor-length petite maxi dresses with slim silhouettes. Great for semi-formal events.
• Cocktail dresses: Chic and playful short dresses for cocktail parties and special occasions.
• Shirt dresses: Relaxed silhouettes with a partial button front. These make great casual day dresses.
• Sundresses: Pretty floral sundresses in spaghetti strap and halter neck styles. Perfect for summer!

Alex Marie uses stretchy, flowing fabrics to maintain the silhouette of a petite figure in all of their dresses. The brand offers dresses in both prints, solids, pastels, and vibrant colors so you can easily find an option that suits your personal style.

Where to Buy Alex Marie Dresses Online

The best places to buy Alex Marie petite dresses online are:

• Nordstrom: Nordstrom carries the widest selection of Alex Marie petite dresses. They offer free shipping and free returns.
• Alex Marie website: Shop the entire collection direct from the Alex Marie website. Sign up for emails to get access to sales and coupon codes.
• Dillard’s: Find a large selection of Alex Marie petite styles at Dillard’s both online and in store.
• Bloomingdale’s: Bloomingdale’s sells many of the Alex Marie cocktail and formal petite dress styles.
• Amazon: Amazon carries a handful of the best selling Alex Marie dresses with free Prime shipping. Be sure to check reviews.
• Poshmark: Search Poshmark for new or gently used Alex Marie dresses at discounted prices. Great for finding sold out styles and prints.

I recommend browsing the Alex Marie website first to see the full collection. Then shop at Nordstrom and Dillard’s to take advantage of their excellent customer service, free shipping, and hassle-free returns if needed. Amazon can be another good option for quick Prime shipping.

The Fit of Alex Marie Petite Dresses

One of the major benefits of Alex Marie dresses is that they are designed specifically for petite figures. The dresses are cut to be the perfect length for shorter frames.

Most Alex Marie petite dresses fall around knee-length, which hits at a flattering point on petites. The brand designs their dresses to be slightly fitted through the shoulder, bust, and waist area then gently flow over the hips and thighs. This creates a gorgeous, feminine silhouette.

Compared to other brands, Alex Marie petite dresses fit shorter in length and tighter in the bodice than typical misses dresses. They are more tailored through the mid-section than many petite brands.

For petite ladies under 5’4″, the fit of Alex Marie dresses is phenomenal right off the rack – no alterations needed! If you are between 5’4″ and 5’5″, you may need an extra inch or two hemmed for full length dresses to prevent pooling at the bottom.

Fabrics and Materials Used

Alex Marie uses high quality fabrics designed to drape beautifully on petite figures. Here are some of the primary fabrics found in their petite dresses:

• Jersey knit: Soft stretch jersey knit is used for wrap dresses and long sleeve styles. It hugs curves without being too clingy.
• Ponte knit: A medium-weight ponte knit is perfect for shift dresses. It has great stretch and recovery.
• Chiffon: Flowy chiffon is ideal for flutter sleeve and maxi dress styles. The lightweight fabric flatters a petite frame.
• Lace: Intricate lace detailing adds feminine charm to many Alex Marie dress styles. Ideal for cocktail and formal dresses.
• Cotton sateen: Smooth cotton sateen is used to create polished shirt dresses. It has a bit of stretch and sheen.
• Crepe: Lightweight crepe fabric drapes beautifully. It’s perfect for creating movement.
• Eyelet cotton: Pretty eyelet cotton makes for romantic sundress options. The fabric is soft with great airflow.

By using body conscious, draping fabrics Alex Marie is able to design petite dresses that truly complement a smaller figure. The stretch fabrics move with you and the delicate fabrics cascade gracefully.

Are Alex Marie Dresses Suitable for Formal Events?

Alex Marie has several dress styles that are absolutely appropriate for formal events like cocktail parties, weddings, and black tie galas. Here are some of my top picks:

• Lace cocktail dresses: Any of Alex Marie’s lace cocktail dresses instantly elevate a formal look. Just add some heels!
• Satin maxi dresses: A satin maxi dress in a dark, rich color looks extremely elegant for a formal evening event.
• Chiffon gowns: A flowing chiffon gown makes a gorgeous choice for a summer garden wedding or soiree.
• Sequined shift dresses: For black tie occasions, go for a sequined shift dress with a bit of shimmer.
• Velvet wrap dresses: Alex Marie’s velvet wrap dresses are perfect for holiday parties and wedding guest attire.

Look for dresses with luxe fabrics like satin, silk, velvet, or lace. Opt for longer gown silhouettes and rich jewel tones or black for the most formal events. Add some sparkly jewelry and you are ready for anything! The quality and tailoring of Alex Marie dresses make them a go-to for dressy events.

Cost and Value of Alex Marie Dresses

Alex Marie petite dresses range in price from $70 to $250 with most styles falling between $100-$150. This puts them in the moderate price point among specialty retailers. Given the brand’s reputation for excellent construction and use of high end fabrics like silk and lace, I consider them an excellent value for ready-to-wear dresses.

Here’s how Alex Marie dresses compare:

• More expensive than fast fashion brands like ASOS, Forever21, etc.
• Less expensive than designer brands like Kate Spade, Tory Burch, etc.
• On par with DKNY, Vince Camuto, Maggy London, etc.
• More expensive than department store brands like Alfred Dunner, Jessica Howard, etc.

Considering the quality fabrics and tailoring designed specifically for petite frames, Alex Marie dresses are very fairly priced. I find them to be a great mid-range option that offer luxe style at accessible price points.

Caring for Your Alex Marie Dress

To care for your Alex Marie dress properly, be sure to follow these laundry and storage tips:

• Read care labels: Check the garment tag for any special washing instructions. Many Alex Marie dresses can be machine washed.
• Wash delicates separately: Hand wash or use a garment bag for lace, silk, or embellished dresses. Avoid the dryer.
• Skip the dryer: Line dry dresses to prevent heat damage and shrinking. Laid flat or on a drying rack works best.
• Steam or iron: Steam or gently iron dresses inside out while still slightly damp. This prevents creasing.
• Spot clean stains: Use a damp cloth with mild detergent to spot treat any stains immediately to prevent setting in.
• Store properly: Hang dresses in your closet in between wears. If space is limited, refold along original creases.
• Repair loose threads: Snip any loose threads immediately so they don’t snag or unravel fabric.

Following these simple care instructions will keep your Alex Marie dresses looking fabulous season after season. Handle delicates gently and dry properly to get the longest wear from your investment pieces.

Styling Your Alex Marie Dress

The wonderful thing about Alex Marie dresses is that they are versatile enough to dress up or down effortlessly. Here are some of my favorite ways to style these dresses:

For daytime:

• Pair with flat sandals or ballet flats for a casual chic daytime look.
• Layer over a long sleeve tee or turtleneck when it’s cooler out.
• Cinch with a wide belt at the waist to define your figure.
• Throw on a denim jacket for a more laidback vibe.
• Carry a small crossbody bag instead of a tote to keep it light.

For nighttime:

• Strappy heels instantly dress up an Alex Marie cocktail style dress.
• Add some delicate jewelry like pendant necklaces and dangling earrings.
• Opt for a wristlet clutch instead of a shoulder bag for evening.
• A faux fur jacket or wrap adds drama for formal occasions.
• Style your hair in soft waves or an elegant updo.

Alex Marie dresses transition seamlessly from day to night with just a few minor styling adjustments. They are made to multitask! Play with accessories, layering pieces, footwear and hairstyles to take your look from desk to dinner in a flash.

Are Sales Available on Alex Marie?

The good news is Alex Marie dresses do go on sale fairly regularly! Here are some tips for scoring deals:

• Check the Alex Marie website around major holidays and in July/August for online sales. I’ve seen site-wide sales up to 40% off dresses.
• Sign up for Alex Marie’s email list – they will send special subscriber promo codes and offers.
• Nordstrom, Dillard’s and Bloomingdale’s will mark down Alex Marie pieces during bi-annual sales and clearance events.
• Shop end of season sales around November-January and May-July for the best markdowns on Alex Marie dresses. Selection will be limited to last season’s colors and prints.
• Browse resale sites like Poshmark and Mercari for steep discounts on pre-owned Alex Marie dresses. Retailers don’t allow returns of used items.
• Look for coupon codes from influencers and style bloggers – I’ve found 15-20% off codes for first time Alex Marie shoppers.

With some strategic sale shopping, you can often score beautiful Alex Marie dresses for as much as 50% off! Set price drop alerts and look for deals around peak clearance times. Happy sale shopping!

Alex Marie Petite Dress Size Availability

One of the great things about Alex Marie is that they offer an impressive size range despite specializing in petite dresses. Here is the full breakdown of their size availability:

• Petite sizes: 00P-12P, including short, regular or long length options.
• Misses sizes: 00-16, with regular or long lengths depending on style.
• Plus sizes: 14W-24W, available in select dress styles.
• Juniors sizes: 00J-15J, available in select casual dress styles.

So whether you typically wear petite, misses, plus or junior sizes, you should be able to find an Alex Marie dress to fit! Do check the size charts closely, as the fit can vary a bit by style. I typically wear my regular dress size in Alex Marie.

If you fall in the petite range of under 5’4″, I highly recommend selecting the petite sizes for the ideal fit. For taller ladies near 5’8″, you may prefer the misses sizes. Try both to determine which flatters you best! Proper fit really enhances the beauty of Alex Marie’s designs.

Floral Options for Alex Marie Dresses

Floral prints and embroidery details are a staple of the warm weather Alex Marie dress collections. Here are some of my favorite flower-filled picks to brighten up your spring and summer wardrobe:

• Flutter sleeve floral print midi: This chiffon midi dress has a vintage floral print and the fluttery sleeves are so feminine.
• V-neck floral embroidery fit & flare: The mixed floral embroidery on this fit and flare dress is so pretty and unique.
• Spaghetti strap floral sundress: A sweetheart neckline and dainty floral print give this style a retro beachy vibe.
• Floral print wrap dress: This jersey wrap dress features a bold pink floral print that is just gorgeous for summer.
• Cold shoulder floral maxi: Off the shoulder sleeves and a blue botanical print make this maxi boho chic.
• Garden rose belt shirt dress: This shirt dress gets a ladylike lift from the embroidered rose belt detail.

When it comes to florals, Alex Marie offers both vintage inspired and modern abstract prints in a variety of color palettes. Choose your favorite bloom!

How to Style an Alex Marie Dress for a Wedding

Alex Marie dresses are fantastic options for wedding attire. Their tailored silhouettes and luxe fabrics make them ideal for formal affairs. Here are my top tips for styling an Alex Marie dress for a wedding:

• For a daytime or garden wedding, try a chiffon maxi dress in a lighter color like powder blue, blush pink or mint green. Add delicate jewelry and nude heels.
• For an evening reception, opt for a satin cocktail dress in a rich tone like emerald, navy or eggplant. Metallic or beaded shoes and a clutch will complement nicely.
• A lace dress is perfect for a formal church ceremony. Play with different sleeve lengths from cap to long sleeve. Accessorize with a floral hat for a touch of whimsy.
• To complement the bride, avoid red tones or overly embellished dresses. Soft pastels and muted metallics are safe options.
• Get a seamstress to tailor any final adjustments for the perfect fit. Proper alterations take a dress from standard to spectacular.
• Use accessories strategically. Opt for one statement piece of jewelry or bag to keep the look elegant.

With some thoughtful styling choices, an Alex Marie dress can work for any wedding dress code. Just focus on fit, color, and a minimalist approach to jewelry and accessories.

Alternatives to Alex Marie Petite Dresses

While I’m partial to the fit, quality and style of Alex Marie, here are some other brands that offer stylish petite dress options to consider:

• ASOS – This fast fashion retailer offers trendy dresses at lower price points. Limited petite range but lots of options under $50.
• Topshop – Great for trendy, edgy petite styles. Prices are mid-range, around $80 per dress.
• Boden – A UK brand with classic prints and shifts in petite sizes. Expect to pay $100-150 per dress.
• Anthropologie – Bohemian petite dresses with feminine details. Most styles $150 and up.
• Loft – More affordable business casual dresses for petites, usually $80-120 each.
• ModCloth – Quirky retro inspired petite dresses in the $60-150 range.

While not exclusively petite focused, these brands have solid petite dress collections. I suggest trying a few styles to get a feel for their unique fits before buying multiple pieces. For the best selection of tailored, petite-specific dresses, Alex Marie still has my vote! But it’s nice to have options.

Caring for Your Alex Marie Dress: Cleaning Tips

To keep your Alex Marie dresses looking their best, it’s important to clean them properly. Here are my top care tips:

• Spot clean stains immediately with mild soap and cool water to prevent setting in. Avoid vigorous rubbing.
• Pretreat tough stains like makeup or food before washing. Use a stain remover or dab with dish soap.
• Hand wash delicate fabrics like lace, silk or chiffon gently in cool water. Use a laundry wash bag.
• Machine wash most dresses on the delicate or cold wash cycle. Opt for a gentle detergent, never hot water.
• Hang to dry or lie flat. Avoid the dryer to prevent heat damage, shrinking or pulling.
• Iron on low if needed while the dress is still slightly damp. Iron inside out to prevent shine marks.
• Inspect before storing and mend any loose stitches. Store in a clean, dry place away from sunlight.
• Take difficult stains to the dry cleaner for professional treatment.

Dedicate some extra time and care when cleaning your Alex Marie dresses to ensure they stay gorgeous season after season. Handle delicates gently and promptly treat stains before washing.

Are Alex Marie Petite Dresses True to Size?

From my experience, Alex Marie petite dresses are very true-to-size and offer a nice tailored fit. I normally wear a size 4P in dresses, and I can comfortably wear a size 4P in any style of Alex Marie dress. The fit through the bodice and length are just right without alterations.

Here are some additional tips for finding your ideal size:

• Consult the brand’s online size chart to measure yourself first. They have very detailed measurement guides.
• Stick with your normal dress size for a classic fit, or size down for a more contoured silhouette.
• Bustier figures may prefer to size up for comfortable fit through the chest.
• If between sizes, I recommend sizing up. Alex Marie dresses run a bit slim.
• Try different lengths like regular, short or tall if the dress hem is hitting at an awkward spot.
• Read product reviews from other petite shoppers for helpful sizing notes.

One of the things I appreciate most about Alex Marie is the consistency in their sizing. Once you find your fit, you can comfortably shop other Alex Marie styles confident they will have that same great tailored feel. For petite shoppers, this level of precision is invaluable!

Alex Marie Petite Dress Color Selections

Alex Marie offers their dresses in both vibrant colors and classic neutrals to suit any style or occasion. Here’s an overview of the color options available:

Neutral Tones

• Black: The perfect LBD or cocktail option
• White: Great for a wedding or summer dress
• Beige/tan: Chic neutral for daytime dresses
• Blush pink: Romantic and feminine neutral
• Navy: Polished nautical vibes
• Gray: Sophisticated color for workwear

Pastel Hues

• Mint: Whimsical for weddings and garden parties
• Lilac: Softest purple with a retro vibe
• Powder blue: Dreamy color, perfect for bridesmaids
• Peach: Fresh and girly for summer
• Lavender: Light purple that flatters most skin tones

Bold Colors

• Royal blue: Rich blue hue, great for fall
• Emerald green: Jewel-tone makes a style statement
• Crimson: Sophisticated alternative to classic red
• Coral: Fun pop of color for cocktail dresses
• Yellow: Cheery springtime color, looks great on petites

Alex Marie utilizes color so thoughtfully in their dress designs. You’ll find the exact hue to match the mood and occasion – whether it’s a soft pastel for brunch or striking crimson for date night. Explore the palette to find your perfect match!

Longevity and Durability of Alex Marie Dresses

One of the reasons I love Alex Marie dresses is that they are designed to last. With proper care, you can expect to get multiple seasons of wear out of these dresses.

Here are some of the factors that give Alex Marie dresses longevity:

• Fabric quality – They use fabrics like thick jersey knits and stretch cotton that maintain their shape wash after wash. No sagging or pilling.
• Lined dresses – Many styles have full lining or bodice lining to prevent transparent fabric issues over time.
• Reinforced seams – Sturdy, reinforced internal seams prevent ripped stitches or loosening.
• washable – Most styles can be machine washed and line dried allowing you to keep them fresh.
• Timeless silhouettes – The versatile, classic cuts of Alex Marie dresses stay in style year after year.
• Precise fit – Their exacting fit for petites keeps the dresses flattering as subtle body changes occur.

While delicate lace or chiffon dresses require a bit more gentleness, Alex Marie’s daywear dresses are designed for longevity. Follow proper care guidelines and your go-to pieces should last 3-5 years or more! The quality matches the price point.

Wearing Alex Marie Dresses to the Office

Alex Marie offers several dress silhouettes that are perfectly polished and professional for the office:

• Button down shirt dresses – Cotton poplin or sateen for a smart feel. Try interesting sleeve variations.
• Shift dresses – Jersey knit and scuba styles work well. Play with colors and skirt lengths.
• Wrap dresses – Pair with a blazer or cardigan for dressed up vibes.
• sheath dresses – Opt for textured fabrics like houndstooth or tweed. Stay below the knee.
• A-line dresses – Modest A-line frocks with 3⁄4 length or long sleeves.

Pair with a blazer, opaque tights, and low heels for the best desk to dinner style. Look for stretch fabrics that keep silhouette smooth all day. Solid colors and subtle prints read sharpest. With smart styling choices, Alex Marie’s polished dress designs excel for the modern workplace.

The History Behind the Alex Marie Brand

Alex Marie was founded in 1998 by industry veterans Alexandra Ripa and Marie O’Connor. The co-founders saw a gap in the market for sophisticated yet comfortable clothing designed specifically for petite figures.

The Alex Marie brand started with a focus on suits and separates. Their tailored pants and blazers became favorites among professional petite women who struggled to find well-fitting options from other retailers.

In the early 2000’s, Alex Marie expanded into dresses and quickly gained renown for their expertly crafted sheath dresses and cocktail styles that were scaled for shorter proportions.

Over the past two decades, the brand has continued to perfect their petite focused fits while keeping up with the latest trends each season. They’ve grown to offer collections focused on dresses, workwear, denim, pants, outerwear, and more.

Today Alex Marie is a go-to for high quality, contemporary fashion for petites that flatters and celebrates the smaller figure. Under the leadership of CEO Alyssa Wurstle, the brand maintains the mission it started with over 20 years ago. Their petite dresses are loved by loyal fans and continue to attract new customers season after season!

The Takeaway

After reading this comprehensive buying guide, you should feel equipped to find your perfect Alex Marie petite dress! To recap:

Alex Marie offers an array of timeless dress silhouettes in high quality fabrics and a fit that is tailored to flatter petite figures. Their styles transition seamlessly from day to night and are suitable for both casual and formal affairs.

Compared to other brands, Alex Marie petite dresses offer excellent value given their construction quality and attentive detailing for smaller proportions. Proper care and storage will extend the lifespan of these investment pieces.

I hope you’ve discovered new petite dress styles, prints and colors to add to your wardrobe! Alex Marie’s mission is to help petites feel confident and beautiful, and their exquisite dress offerings deliver just that.