When you're short, shopping for clothing and creating a capsule wardrobe is a bit of a battle. As someone who's under 5'3", I've regularly found myself in fitting rooms trying on laughably long jeans or jackets that make me look like I've come straight from the '80s (such as unintentionally oversized shoulders). If you're nodding along in empathy, rest assured that I feel your pain. But it doesn't have to be this way.
While we should all embrace whatever size, shape or height we are, I know that for me, sometimes appearing and feeling a little taller helps with being more confident, which is why I've looked to petite Instagrammers to gather some tips on how to dress a smaller frame. Although they have their own takes on fashion, there's one thing they tend to avoid: anything overly layered. Now, on to their secrets…
A Petite Fashion Editor's Top Styling Tips:
1. Show your waist.
2. Try short dresses or skirts with pointed shoes or boots.
3. Opt for cropped, fitted trousers.
4. Invest in high-waisted trousers.
5. Tailor your pieces to fit your shape.
6. When in doubt, go monochrome.
7. If you add layers on top, go for tighter on the bottom half.
8. In winter, try out a long coat.
9. Never underestimate small heels.
If you want to see these tricks in action, keep scrolling for nine petite outfit ideas that are ready to steal—featuring some of the coolest petite pieces we've come across.
PETITE STYLING SUGGESTIONS
1. Show Off Your Waist
Style Notes: An outfit that goes in at the waist is an easy way to avoid swamping a smaller frame. Add a belt to more relaxed shapes like a blazer or dress (like Lydia has expertly done here) to cinch your clothes in.
Shop the Look:
So chic.
A waist belt is a hero item for any petite dresser.
It'll also look great cinching in a loose dress.
2. Wear Short Dresses With Pointed-Toe Shoes or Boots
Style Notes: The beauty of this look from Jessica is that it's so simple but undeniably elevated. There's just something about pointed-toe shoes that directs the eye down and can make legs appear slightly longer.
Shop the Look:
This perfect-length mini is so cute.
Even a kitten heel can give you a little more elongation thanks to the pointed toe.
A legendary investment shoe.
3. Opt for Cropped Trousers
Style Notes: While wearing cropped items may seem counterintuitive, a high-waisted, fitted cut and a clever flash of ankle give the impression that you're taller than you actually are. Anouk's outfit is an ideal example of how to style these kinds of trousers.
Shop the Look:
A perfect colour to go with other warm neutrals like cocoa brown.
A crop will also show off a great pair of shoes.
How sweet and simple would these look worn with a plain white T-shirt.
4. Wear High-Waisted Trousers
Style Notes: Anything high-waisted is a winner for petite women, and it's easy to find tailored pairs, like Monikh's gorgeous green shade. The high rise gives the illusion of longer legs by emphasising your waist. To get the right length, head to petite sections at the likes of Reformation, Whistles and M&S.
Shop the Look:
The cut of these trousers is flawless.
These cord trousers are so perfect for office days.
This sleek pair with go with everything.
5. Tailor Your Pieces
Style Notes: Many clothes these days have a relaxed or wide-leg fit, so they can end up being too long and too big. If you find one you love that isn't in the petite section, finding a great a tailor is the trick. The Seam is such a good site to use to find a local one in your area. You can still pull off these cool trends and different silhouettes but they'll be perfectly tailored to you, making for a flawless outfit like Yusra's.
Shop the Look:
A staple for plenty of petite outfits.
Mother even has a petite collection of jeans now.
Rising the hemline a few inches can make for the perfect fit.
6. If in Doubt, Go Monochrome
Style Notes: Monochrome and tonal outfits are a go-to for shorter girls. A top-to-toe look in the same colour can lead the eye all the way down, whereas different colour separates can often highlight a shorter torso or legs. Make like Lois and go for a polished black combo.
Shop the Look:
I love the fit of this T-shirt.
& Other Stories has a great selection of trousers.
Such a versatile piece in any wardrobe—and at a very nice price.
7. If You Add Layers On Top, Go For Tighter On The Bottom Half
Style Notes: The one thing petite street style stars all know to be true? Layers can be difficult as they tend to drown shorter people in fabric. If you want to do the relaxed silhouette look, opt for one key piece such as Aïda's aviator jacket and wear it over something sleek and tighter on the bottom half like leggings and boots.
Shop the Look:
These are so affordable.
These even come in a short and extra-short length.
A timeless boot style.
8. Invest in a Long Coat
Style Notes: Kim Kardashian is a fan of this trick. (She knows a streamlined silhouette is always going to make you appear taller.) Bonus: A long coat will instantly make any outfit look smarter. Bonus bonus: Many of the world's midi coats will be long enough to do the trick, so you've got more options to play with.
Shop the Look:
This will make everything you wear it with look elegant.
So sleek.
For a lighter layering piece.
9. Don't Underestimate Low Heels
Style Notes: We saved the most obvious rule for last. Of course, wearing heels will make you look taller. And if you can't bear high heels? Fear not—kitten heels are back and do the trick too.
Shop the Look:
Try belting this (just like Hannah) if you need to pull up the hemline slightly.
A kitten heel will always be more comfy.
The style is so elegant.
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
