Daily Mail journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission - learn moreAs a petite woman, summer is definitely my favourite season as far as fashion is concerned.It’s much more flattering to be able to wear just one item of clothing rather than having to layer up and watch my 5ft 1in frame disappear underneath all that fabric.The joy of occasionwear in these warmer months, is that, by simply adding a pair of heels, a summer dress or jumpsuit is immediately elevated (and so am I!).And, even better, many High Street stores now offer a petite range, so gone are the days of pulling everything together with a bulldog clip or cinching the waist with an outfit-ruining belt. All the pieces I’m wearing here fit like a glove.The proportions are perfect – no last-minute alterations required.Whether you’re going to garden parties, weddings or, like me, the odd hippie music festival (I am 71 and a teenager of the 1970s), here are my choices for the pieces every petite woman needs this summer...Cocktail chic The polka dot dress is cinched at the waist and perfect for cocktail parties on warmer eveningsI describe this dress as a ‘whisper’ because it floats and reveals in all the right places. The chiffon sleeves fall over the top of the arm, giving just a glimpse of bare flesh between the open seams. I’ve got a short torso, but the gathering of the fabric cheats my lack of waist. This dress is begging to be worn with a kitten heel. Very Gatsby – pass me the cocktail menu! Suits you This elegant co-ord is tailored to perfection for shorter frames. It's versatile and can be worn to a range of occasions from weddings to evening drinks A co-ord in one colour is a gift to petite frames, as it tricks the eye to make you look taller. This suit will take you to everything from Goodwood to a wedding, to an outdoor concert. The tailoring is perfection – a nice long jacket and trousers that fall on the ankle. It’s a linen-type fabric but don’t worry, it doesn’t crease. I’m daringly wearing it with nothing underneath but, for the more modest, a lace cami would look great, too.Pockets for a pocket rocket With its graceful print and textured chiffon, this dress exudes femininity and makes for a stunning summer outfitI love this dress’s paisley print, covered buttons and (thank you Hobbs!) side pockets. It’s lined so has a good weight and the waist can be tied at the front or the side so you can easily adjust it to fit you. This is the perfect choice for a garden party or, for more formal occasions, like weddings, add a hat like I have here.The jump-for-joy jumpsuit Flattering pleats work their way through this summery design to give a charming shape and texture to the jumpsuit. With light fabric, the piece will keep you cool on warm summer nightsLook at this clever design! One ruched shoulder is so flattering, as are the pleats into the wide legs, falling at just the right length. A jumpsuit in a block colour immediately elongates the body and this tomato red feels frisky and fun. I will probably wear this to every event throughout the summer! The dress it up, dress it down This airy, comfortable V-neck has a showstopping floral print and looks fabulous when paired with heels Boden brings out a version of this ‘pull-on’ cotton dress every year. With not a zip or fastener in sight, it’s no wonder this is a perennial favourite and I love this summer’s version – the elasticated waist, the gorgeous puff sleeves, the ‘V’ neckline. It is the kind of dress that adapts. Add a pair of heels for special occasions, or kick off your shoes and walk barefoot through the sand or grass at a festival.The dreamy dress for date night Vibrant and classy, this halterneck dress is perfect for summer weddings or garden partiesRixo always manages to mix smart with casual. Give me a halterneck, maxi chiffon dress and I’ll give you a very happy pocket rocket! A clever cinched waist, cutaway armholes, three tiers in length – this is sexy, but not revealing. It’s more about what I’m not showing, letting the chiffon in the breeze accentuate my curves.