Notes from a 5'3" Shopping Editor: 10 Dresses I'm Eyeing at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

This wild-yet-elegant paisley print dress is crisp all cotton with a removable self belt that has a swanky buckle in a tortoiseshell pattern. It falls 34 inches from the shoulder, so a petite like me can wear it and it hits right at the knee, while on taller wearers, it's a minidress. Long sleeves, a ruffle hem and a band collar add to this appealingly cover-up style, which can be worn year-round—just layer over a long T-shirt and tights and pair with boots in cooler weather.

A figure-skimming knit midi dress is my favorite understated-yet-elegant outfit for traveling, since it can be rolled up and looks none the worse for wear. This polo version can be worn belted or not (we borrowed this tip from Sabrina Carpenter's style) and the viscose-, polyester- and nylon-blend fabric is lightweight enough for three-season wear. Finally, the V neck is figure-enhancing, drawing the eye upward to the face.

I've had my eye on this versatile cotton-nylon-elastane blend shirtdress for a while now, but couldn't justify making the purchase as a necessity—until now, since it's $49 off. I'm always pleased with the styling, fit and overall preppy cool of anything from the Ralph Lauren universe, and this flare skirt is short enough that it won't overwhelm my 5'3" figure. Also, the belt is removable, so I can switch it out for another one to switch up the look.

Sweater dress season is right around the corner, and I always recommend grabbing a couple sleeveless styles that will pair well with jackets without making you overheated in the early autumn days. This maxi is fitted with a sweater-like ribbed material and there's even a slit in the back so your legs have space to move comfortably. The scoop back is a sexy touch, too.

Every year ahead of the Nordstrom anniversary sale, I am poised to add to cart pieces that I know I'll wear for years to come. That's the case with this covetable suede sheath in a burnished tan shade. It's lined, has a hidden back zip and at 34 1/2 inches long, falls just right on petites. The jewel neckline and sleeveless cut can be styled with Western boots if I'm feeling cowboycore, or worn with tights and flats for a throwback '90s minimalist vibe. At $85 off, it's the score I'll be enjoying all fall season.

This dress is going to get you noticed, with a cotton-blend lace body, demure lining and button half-placket that works its way up the front of the dress. The flattering band collar frames the face, while the long sleeves with elastic cuffs fall softly from the shoulder. And the glossy faux leather belt is so cute!

This dreamy lavender shade is a beautiful hue for summer-into-fall, and so is the silhouette of this tiered party dress. The rayon-nylon fabric falls in soft layers, and the voluminous sleeves punctuate with elastic cuffs. The 33-inch length will fall just above the knee on petites and as a mini on taller wearers; I like this dress with footwear from heels to Converse low tops.

A little modern shirtdressing for the summer, anyone? The flattering front button closure, drawcord-toggle waist and spread collar makes this an ideal choice that can work for a variety of events as it's not too dressy, but not too casual either. Most important, the breathable all-cotton fabric is cool while still modestly covered-up.

I delight in scoring major bargains during this annual sale, such as this gorgeous tweed number from French girl style brand Cinq a Sept. The soft fabric (a 73 percent cotton and 25 percent polyester blend) in a soft nutmeg hue is going to keep you comfortable and chic when you wear it everywhere from faith services to strolls on the Seine. And the short length is perfect for a petite like me—it still hits above the knee. Finally, the domed goldtone buttons are gorgeous.

This streamlined stretch polyester dress has eye-catching buttons on front patch pockets but it otherwide elegantly minimalist, with a fit and flare silhouette. This is the value-add basic black dress that's easy to pop on with a flat shoe or a heel—and the mini length shows a little leg, to boot.