How to dress when you are petite?

In previous articles I discussed how to to determine body shape and dress for your vertical body type. But I have not yet gone into details on how to dress when you are short or petite, ie., below the average height of 1.65 m (5’4” ), so let’s do that today!

In principle these guidelines will work for anyone who is short in height, or for those who want to appear longer or leaner in their appearance. These guidelines also work well for those whose upper body is almost the same length as their lower body. In that case the aim is to make the lower body appear longer.

When you are short in height you will usually have the following objectives with your dressing:

Appear longer

Create a flattering silhouette (using the rule of thirds, so you don’t split your body in half)

Avoid boxyness

1. How to appear longer when you are short

Most short women will want to appear taller and leaner. This is relatively easy to achieve if you stick to the following guidelines:

Stick to monochrome outfits or outfits with few colour variations. You would look perfect in simple shift dresses, with little color accents here and there.

Dresses will look great on many short women, as they automatically created the much desired 2/3 – 1/3 look. If you opt for a tight, slim silhouette then this will make you look even taller

Getting clothes with the right fit and size is even more important for short women. Ill fitting clothes will add extra bulk.

An obvious way to gain height is to wear heel. However, don’t go overboard with these. Getting heels that are too high (say above 5 cm (..) will make you look out of proportion

Go easy on the oversized accessories as these may overwhelm you.

Often with petites, your legs will be relatively short. To make those appear longer you can wear the same colour belt as your pants or skirt.

Vertical patterns will always elongate and would be especially good for your pants or skirt. Horizontal stripes are best avoided.

Although a short dress can be very effective for short people when they are young, I would advise against them over 40. Instead opt for styles than fall just below or on top of the knee. A high waisted skirt or pants would make your legs appear longer.

stop just below the knee and avoid boots that end on the mid part of your shins.

2. Creating a flattering silhouette

Avoid wearing very contrasting tops. This will draw more attention to the fact that your upper body is almost the same length as your lower body.

A well fitted dress will give you a great silhouette.

High waisted pants with a short top will do the same.

3. Avoid boxyness

Don’t get (too many) accessories that are oversized and bold.

Fitted clothes are usually better for you and avoid oversized clothes (even i they are on trend).

The same goes for tops. Be careful with very wide tops and make sure not to have both wide on top and below.

Go easy on the layering!

Best not to tuck in your pants into your boots.

Belts are best kept narrow, unless you belt it very high up your waist.