I have a love-hate relationship with dresses. There are many reasons why I love them—they’re low-lift outfits, can be dressed up or down, and are ideal for warm weather; however, it can be challenging for me to find styles that are flattering on my 5-foot frame (read: too long, overwhelmingly flowy, or overall disproportionate to my body). So, when I find a dress that fits perfectly, I want to shout it from the rooftops, and my most recent (and exciting) discovery is the Bayleigh Midi Dress by Lilly Pulitzer.

Lilly Pulitzer’s new spring collection is chock-full of the brand’s signature vibrant-colored dresses that can be worn to work, weddings, showers, and vacations, and the Bayleigh Midi Dress is no exception. Thanks to its floral pattern with bright shades of blue, pink, green, and yellow, the dress has brought life to my mostly neutral wardrobe.

　　 Lilly Pulitzer Bayleigh Midi Dress

Buy on Lillypulitzer.com I was eager to test the Bayleigh Midi Dress because I prefer midi-length styles but also wanted to try a flowy silhouette, as most of the ones I own are straight or form-fitted. Plus, the spring-forward print is different from anything else I own, and I was looking for something cheerful for this season and beyond.

After receiving it, my first impression of the dress was that the material was a lot more comfortable and flexible than I anticipated from the online photos. Once I tried it on, I was even more pleased with the fabric. It’s made of a rayon and spandex blend, meaning it’s soft, thick yet breathable, and has the right amount of stretch to prevent it from clinging to your body. 

The midi dress hits right above my ankles, has a beautiful flowy skirt that doesn’t take over my petite frame, and features built-in cups to smooth and lift the chest area. I also love the flutter sleeves, V-neckline that’s not too deep, and smocked back with the easy-to-reach zipper.

As for sizing, I recommend sizing down if you’re between sizes. I’m usually either a 2 or 4, and the 4 was just a little too big. I have a larger bust, so when I can’t try on items in person, I tend to go with a 4 because I’d rather have a little more room in the chest area than not. 

The dress is such a good piece to have on hand for both casual and formal occasions. I’ve styled it with both heels and sneakers and plan on wearing it with sandals and even barefoot on my annual summer beach vacation. And speaking of traveling, it’s the ideal dress for any upcoming trips, as it doesn’t wrinkle after sitting in your suitcase and exudes resort style.

Add the petite-friendly, editor-approved Bayleigh Midi Dress to your warm-weather wardrobe, and keep scrolling for more pieces I’m eyeing from Lilly Pulitzer’s new collection.

　　 Lilly Pulitzer Bryson Skirted Romper

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　　 Lilly Pulitzer Danika Tunic Dress

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　　 Lilly Pulitzer Del Rey Stretch Shift Dress

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　　 Lilly Pulitzer Alyssa A-Line Cotton Dress

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　　 Lilly Pulitzer Kenley Cotton Crew Neck Dress

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　　 Lilly Pulitzer Kailee Shift Dress

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