How To Dress if you’re a petite

For petite ladies finding clothes that fit adequately shopping can bit of a battle. It’s not uncommon for women who are smaller than average to find themselves in fitting rooms trying on jeans or jackets that are way too long for them.

If this sounds like you, don’t worry! Our personal shoppers have the all the style tips to help you accentuate your best features and celebrate your shape.
 

Below what size can we say that we are “petite”?

The regular size is usually intended for women 5’5″ or taller. Typically, shorter women will find the sleeves of coats, jackets and many other garments are too long, and also trouser length.

However, the petite fit is specifically designed for women with a height below 5’4″ (162 cm). Thus, petite size usually only refers to height, rather than weight. For this reason, it is possible to be petite and thin, just as it is possible to be petite and curvy. Petite clothing usually appears in P00 or PXS sizes, but they can also be found (although it is not so common to see them in department stores) in larger sizes, such as PL or PXL.

Characteristics:

Less than 1,60m tall.

How to dress if you have petite body

Now let’s dive into the specifics with some suggestions and guidelines about the best essential garments that will complement your petite figure.

Must-have tops and blouses for petite women

Fitted garments, marked necklines, avoid volume on shoulders and chest. Crop tops. Short, fitted outer garments that do not fall on the hip. Avoid horizontal stripes. Stay away from oversized garments and don’t excessively layer. If you do want to layer pieces, keep voluminous layers in check by wearing a belt.
 

The best jeans and trousers for small women

Trousers that enhance the waist, straight cuts or skinny, shorts also work. Avoid print trousers or opt for vertical stripes. Try cropped jeans, the high-waisted kind and make sure it’s a fitted cut. Showing a bit of ankle gives the impression that you’re taller.
 

Most flattering dresses for petite women

Short dresses, cinched at the waist, that enhance your legs. Avoid maxi dresses and large prints. Also jumpsuits and playsuits look great on for petite bodies.

Which skirts are best suited to petite girls?

Pencil or straight skirts. Mini skirts work well. If you opt for midi, choose those with a side slit. It’s also a good trick to wear them with pointed shoes or boots.

Other Tips for petite woman

If most suits end up being too long or too big, find a good tailor, it will be worth it.

Wear small bags, shoulder, totes and clutches; the oversized bag trend is not for you.

The monochromatic outfit is a go-to for petite women as it will elongate the figure; meanwhile, wearing separate colours on the top and bottom half create a visual divide. Don’t get us wrong, you can wear different colours and look great, just follow our tips!

Petite celebrities with an inspiring style

How does a short girl dress? Check out some great role models. These women below have incredible style and they are all under 5’5″.

Sarah Jessica Parker, Kylie Minogue, Lady Gaga: they’re all petite and they all have their own distinct style. As you can see, no matter your size, age or style, it is possible to find clothes to your liking, in petite size.

If you are looking for advice on how to find clothes for short women, consult your Personal Shopper, she will know how to find the most stylish clothes for your petite wardrobe.