If you’re a shorter woman then you could struggle to find clothes that fit perfectly and suit you. This guide should help you identify what shapes suit shorter women and help you put together a perfectly petite capsule wardrobe.
Trousers
Trousers are known to be one of the trickier fashion issues for petite women, when in fact they can be a problem for women of all heights. Very few of us adhere to a standard leg length, and while some women find it fits them perfectly, many do not.
In terms of choosing the right length trousers it’s important to have at least 2 lengths you go for. One length should fit perfectly with heels and the other with flats. In order to measure your legs perfectly wear the shoes you’re most likely to wear with them and measure from your groin to around an inch off the floor in shoes. This is your ideal inner leg measurement.
You also need to ensure that your trousers fit perfectly everywhere else! Trousers that are too tight or too loose will make you look wider and shorter than you actually are! Low rise trousers and jeans are perfect for shorter women but high waisted ones will cut you in half!
Tops
Tops are a somewhat under discussed part of the petite woman’s wardrobe but everyone’s shape is different. Some petite women may have “standard” length legs but a shorter body and for others it could be the other way around.
Many places now stock shorter length tops made especially for petite women. These can be fantastic as longer tops can drown smaller frames! Like women of any other height you should choose styles that highlight your favourite bits. Go for tops that elongate your frame like V-necks, 3-quarter length sleeves and anything with vertical detailing.
Jackets
If you’re choosing a jacket then there are a couple of lengths that look great on petite women. Cropped jackets that end around your waist will elongate your body and make you appear taller. If you want a more substantial coat then opt for one that ends above the knee. Longer coats and jackets will just make you look shorter.
Again go for vertical detailing for extra length. Long lapels will always appear to add height. If you have a bigger bust then opt for a single-breasted jacket rather than double breasted.
Dresses
When it comes to dresses, length is the most important consideration. Go for dresses that end at or above the knee for a gorgeous, stylish look that makes your legs appear longer and leaner! Stay away from anything that ends at the calf, as this will make you appear much shorter.
Shoes
Most women won’t think of wearing particular shoes to suit your shape but you can enhance your outfit by wearing shoes that suit you. Avoid anything with an ankle strap as it will cut you off. Opt for a heeled shoe (they make you stand straighter as well as adding actual height) that’s open to the ankle or a pair of knee high boots to get maximum height and style!
Colours
Many petite women shy away from bright colours, as they know black makes you look slimmer and taller. However, the same effect can be achieved with just a few subtle changes to alternative colours.
1) Try to continue a theme right through – e.g. Wearing the same accent colour on both your top and bottom half
2) Wearing something in a darker shade and teaming it with a bright feature colour
3) Inject extra colour with funky, bright accessories.
This helpful article was written and distributed by Charlotte Bleasdale on behalf of Marisota – fashionable plus size women’s clothing designed with you in mind.
