As a petite woman, you know that finding clothes that fit can be a challenge. You’ve probably also discovered that some styles work better for your frame than others.
In this post, we’ll give you some tips on what to wear and what to avoid if you want to look fashionable and feel confident in your skin. Happy shopping!
What Works
If you ever feel like you’re dressing all wrong because of your petite frame, you’re not alone. Here are some fashion tips that work. Follow these to help dress your body type and look fabulous. Remember, everybody can look stylish, regardless of their size!
Fitted Blazers
Every woman needs the perfect blazer. A well-fitted blazer is a petite woman’s best friend. It gives the illusion of a longer and leaner torso. Plus, it can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. Not to mention, it’s a great way to show off your curves!
Cropped Pieces
Cropped pants, jackets, and tops are ideal for petite ladies. They help to create the illusion of a longer frame and can be styled in various ways. Just make sure the proportion is right – you don’t want your cropped pieces to be too short or too long.
Simple Patterns
When it comes to patterns, less is more. Small, delicate prints are a great way to add interest to your outfit without overwhelming your frame. If you’re feeling bold, you can always go for a statement piece with a larger print. Just make sure the rest of your outfit is fairly simple.
Vertical Stripes
Vertical stripes are always good if you want to look taller and leaner. They create an illusion of length, which is exactly what you need. Just be careful with horizontal stripes, they can make you look wider.
Pointy Shoes
Pointy shoes help to elongate your legs, making you look taller in the process. They also add a touch of sophistication to any outfit.
High-Waisted Pants
High-waisted pants are another great way to create the illusion of a longer frame. They also help to accentuate your curves, which is always a plus. Make sure they fit well so you don’t look like you’re swimming in fabric.
Satchels and Crossbody Bags
A satchel or crossbody bag is the perfect accessory for a petite woman. It keeps your hands free and doesn’t overwhelm your frame.
Sunglasses Frames: Rectangular, Oval, and Classic Cat-Eye
The right pair of sunglasses can completely transform your look. If you want to elongate your face, go for a pair of rectangular or oval frames. If you’re going for a retro look, try a classic cat-eye frame. There are various sunglasses for small faces that will work for you.
What to Avoid
Fashion may sometimes be hit or miss. For more “hits” and fewer “misses,” here are some tips on what to avoid when shopping so you can look and feel your best.
Oversized Pieces
While you might be tempted to buy that oversized sweater or pair of pants in the hopes of adding height and looking taller, resist the urge! Baggy clothes will only make you look shorter and wider. Stick to well-fitted, tailored pieces instead.
Maxi Dresses
Petite women should avoid wearing maxi dresses. Not only do they tend to be too long, but they can also make you look shorter and stubbier. If you’re set on wearing a maxi dress, get it tailored so that it fits your frame perfectly. There are plenty of petite dresses that will look flattering on you.
Long Skirts
Long skirts can be tricky for petite women. If they’re too long, they’ll make you look shorter. If they’re too short, they’ll make you look like you’re wearing a tunic. The best length for a petite woman is right around the knee.
Busy Patterns
Busy patterns can be overwhelming, especially for petite women. Stick to simpler patterns and prints if you want to look your best.
Ankle-Strap Heels
Ankle-strap heels are a big no-no for petite women. They tend to cut off the leg at an awkward spot, making your legs look shorter. Stick to pumps or shoes that don’t have a strap around the ankle.
Round-Toe Shoes
Round-toe shoes can make your legs look shorter. If you want to elongate your frame, go for a pair of shoes with a pointed or almond-shaped toe instead.
Low Rise Jeans
Low-rise jeans are a no-go for petite women. They tend to be too long and can make your legs look shorter. Stick to mid-rise or high-rise jeans instead.
Large Bags
Large bags can be overwhelming on a petite frame. They make you look smaller and can be quite cumbersome to carry around. Stick to small or medium-sized bags instead.
Horizontal Stripes
As we mentioned before, horizontal stripes can make you look wider. If you want to create the illusion of a longer and leaner frame, stick to vertical stripes instead.
Sunglasses Frames: Aviators, Oversized, Thick Frames
Sunglasses with thick frames can make your face look shorter. If you want to elongate your features, go for a pair of sunglasses with thinner frames instead.
The Bottom Line
When it comes to fashion, there are no hard and fast rules. The most important thing is to dress in a way that makes you feel comfortable and confident.
With that said, these are just a few general tips to keep in mind if you’re looking to create the illusion of a longer and leaner frame. Remember, it’s all about finding your body’s right styles and proportions.
So go ahead and experiment with different styles. With a little trial and error, you’ll be sure to find the perfect looks for you.
Iskra Banović is our seasoned Editor-in-Chief at BlueFashion. She has been steering the website’s content and editorial direction since 2013. With a rich background in fashion design, Iskra’s expertise spans across fashion, interior design, beauty, lifestyle, travel, and culture.
