We all know that maxi styles are hot this summer. But what do you do when you barely stand at five feet like I do? My answers: improvise and choose wisely.

If you’re petite, you need to stick to a fairly narrow maxi dress or skirt. Anything too loose or billowy looking will make your body look terribly unproportional. Stay away from anything like this, as you will become lost in all of the material. Leave dresses like this to taller women. Instead, opt for a more fitted style like this Forever 21 dress.

Forever 21 Curve Stitch Maxi Dress $34.80

If you want to avoid having to hem your dress, pair it with a pair of wedges or heels. Want to wear your dress with flat sandals? Check out stores that offer petite sections like the Gap. This Gathered Pocket Maxi Dress is available in petite as well as this Printed Drawstring Maxi Dress.

Gap Gathered Pocket Maxi Dress $69.95

Gap Printed Drawstring Maxi Dress $49.99

I have improvised in the past with mid-length dresses by wearing them as full maxi dresses. The Essential Striped Tube Dress from Forever 21 hits around the knee on taller women, but will hit lower on petite women. I’ve also converted mid-length strapless dresses to skirts. Since these dresses often hit lower than they were meant to on my short frame, I fold the top down and wear them as skirts that hit perfectly at my ankle for the desired maxi look.

Forever 21 Essential Striped Tube Dress $10.80

Being short is something I have learned to embrace. I can wear high heels without towering over my boyfriend and can still shop in the junior’s section at some stores, providing cheaper alternatives for basic clothing. However, it does become a hassle in terms of the maxi style.

If you struggle with long hems like I do, try out some of the above tips and see if they work for you.

Photos: Gap, Forever21