As all readers under 5'4" will know, shopping can be a frustrating process and styling tips for petite women are often few and far between.
Yes, there are more size ranges ailable on the market now than there ever has been before. But if you are under erage height, it's likely that you've still had to contend with trailing hems and excessively long sleeves, making the process of building a capsule wardrobe that much harder.
When there are practical shopping hacks targeted to those with shorter heights, it's often recommended to buy the clothes you love and to employ the services of a tailor. This cost can stack up over time, and it's mildly annoying constantly getting things adjusted when we just want to visualise the final look from the comfort of a dressing room.
So, with this in mind, we started thinking about the easy styling shortcuts that can se you time (and money) just by taking dressing for your proportions into account.
As a fashion editor who often struggles with finding clothes that fit my in-between-size and curvy frame, I still believe that anyone can wear the pieces that they want (there are no style rules here!). All it takes is a couple of clever tweaks.
That being said, at 5'6", I'm not best placed to share petite style tips. But one person who is, however, is a style sant with a lot of experience in making designer and high street buys work harder for her, fashion blogger Shloka Narang Sensarma.
As an expert in petite fashion, you'll find Shloka in everything from maxi dresses to mini co-ords, without hing to compromise her style. So, who better to ask for tips on how to build an effortlessly elegant capsule wardrobe for those 5'4" and under? If you are a petite shopper looking for easy hacks to transform your outfits now and forever, keep scrolling for Shloka's tips on maximising the pieces you already own. You won't regret it.
6 Styling Tips for Petite Women to Consider1. Invest in a Pair of High-Waisted Jeans
Style Notes: While the runways focus on the denim wars between ultra-baggy jeans, classic straight-leg and even ultra skinny jeans, petite shoppers should think about the waistband rather than the hemline to get proportions right advises Shloka. Loose and wide-leg jeans look great on everybody, but anything that dips below the belly button can cause a shortening effect, swamping a petite frame. "Hing the right pair of jeans is essential, especially when the fit and length are just right!" says Shloka. "I always prefer high-waisted pairs as they help to elongate my silhouette."
Shop High Waisted Jeans:
I love this effortless straight leg iteration from Reformation's dedicated petite denim offering. They also come pre-cropped at the ankle, sing you hemming or folding the extra length.
The most stylish people around—including Who What Wear UK's editorial team—all own a pair of COS's Arch Tapered jeans.
This bestseller comes in a shorter and longer version.
This vibrant blue wash looks so fresh with a plain white t-shirt.
Marks and Spender are one of the few high street retailers to offer all of their jeans in varying leg lengths from extra short to extra long.
2. Well-Tailored Blazers are a Gamechanger
Style Notes: Oversized blazer outfits might be everywhere right now, but the long sleeves and shoulder pads can overwhelm petite proportions. Combat excessive amounts of fabric by opting for fitted blazers, suggests Shloka. An hourglass shape can be just as arresting for power dressers who want to make an impact. "I love to highlight my waist, and when I’m wearing something structured like a blazer, I look for styles that are cinched at the waist. Not only does it elevate the look, but also flatters my shape!" (Expert tip: Purchase a belt to quickly transform any existing jacket into a tapered shape, but more on that below!)
Shop Tailored Blazers:
Aligne's tailoring is adored by fashion editors and tastemakers alike, and we love how unique this waisted blazer. Who would've thought that removing a collar and a lapel could make you look so polished?
Subtle hourglass silhouette with a strong shoulder.
This deep burgundy hue is a rich-looking alternative to black.
This runs a little long, but would look great with trousers.
Now that is a seriously elegant silhouette.
3. Don't Default to Heels
Style Notes: If we've noticed any major trend happening over the last two years, it is undoubtedly the phasing out of the platform heel. Stilettos and chunky heels dominated shoe trends for decades before Miu Miu and Prada heralded the welcome return of the chic kitten heel. Editors and influencers alike agree, comfort must be the number one priority. Not a big fan of demi-heels? Don't worry, ballet flats are now the dressy shoe of choice for stylish women on the go. "I used to rely on heels a lot but as a new mom, flats are my new go-to!" adds Shloka. "I’ve learnt that the right style of flat shoes can still he the same effect on your look, and for me, ballet flats always look polished. "
Shop Ballet Flats:
Le Monde Beryl make the ballet flat of the season. There's no denying these suede shoes are so chic.
It's a miracle that these are still in stock!
The warm, rich burgundy feels so much more exciting than black.
Embrace the trend du jour with these cow print shoes. These would be so cute with blue denim and a chunky cardigan.
Satin shoes feel dressy enough for evening wear while also bringing a touch of sophistication to daytime looks. This elegant pair comes in this stunning dark chocolate and sweet pastel pink.
4. Never Underestimate the Power of a Good Belt
Style Notes: Similar to a cinched blazer, hing a versatile belt in your arsenal can transform a myriad of different looks. Trousers a little long? Hold them around the waist with a belt. Dress a little big? Nip in the waist with a belt. Want to break up head-to-toe colour blocking? A belt will add a point of interest. There's nothing this little wonder can't do, and often it's the small difference between simply wearing and styling an outfit. "A good belt is a petite girls best friend," reminds Shloka. "I he a small collection in different colours and finishes for different vibes."
Shop Belts:
This could easily pass for designer.
This suede iteration is another take on the western belt trend.
This style is an alternative to the classic belt shape.
I'd be happy to find Khaite's studded Benny belt under the tree this Christmas.
Gucci belts are suddenly trending again.
5. Classic Accessories Complete the Look
Style Notes: If you've ever tried on a pair of oversized sunglasses and found the frames comically large, this is for you. Chic frames are the icing on top of the cake (but not if they're sliding down your face), and petite shoppers can struggle with the right size balance. "Finding the right pair of sunglasses when you’re petite is much more challenging than it sounds!" says Shloka. Instead of trend-chasing, opt for a timeless classic that never goes out of style: the universally oval. "My go-to pair are from Le Specs and are called Outta Love, they're the perfect oval frame. I he them in three different colours because they work so well with everything!"
Shop Sunglasses:
The tortoiseshell shade is criminally underrated.
Okay, these are effortless elegance personified.
You'll happily wear these for a lifetime.
The glasses so good they practically he a cult following.
You can never go wrong with Bottega Veneta.
6. Colour Blocking Can Be Your Friend
Style Notes: Deceptively, adding an element of colour to a monochromatic is one styling tip that petite women can always rely on. If wearing a black blazer and high-waisted jeans, throw a vibrant cashmere jumper over your shoulders to accentuate your torso. If wearing tailored trousers, a contrasting knit sweater can lengthen your physique and give more stature, thanks to the commanding hue. These simple tricks make all the difference.
Shop Sweaters:
Butter yellow is a timeless shade.
Rise & Fall jumpers are amongst the best quality high street pieces you can find.
See how the juxtaposing colour accents the waist and shoulders without even trying?
You don't always he to add dimension through colour, either. Add in a new textural element by wearing a chocolate woollen sweater with brown satin trousers.
An investment knit that will stay in your wardrobe for years.