Do you find yourself searching through racks to find something to put on your petite frame? Well, a lot of women would kill to have your small figure but you say, “I can never find anything to wear. Everything is always so big.” If you answer “yes” to almost everything below, you have a petite figure and should read on to find out what garment is best for your shape.
- You are well-proportioned and petite from head to toe.
- You sometimes feel short and stubby and you’re not sure why.
- You are 5’3″ or under.
- You don’t want to appear or feel like a little girl because of your small frame.
- You want a closet full of clothes that elongates your small frame.
What to wear?
Flattering Tops
- Blouses that go just past your waist are most flattering. If the top hits right at the hip, it lengthens the mid-drift.
- V-neck and scoop-neck tops are fabulous basics.
- Belted wraps and fitted blazers create that grown-up look.
- For top layers, shop for single-breasted, princess cut, belted trenches to mid-thigh puffers.
No, Nos!
- Over sized tops – find tops that fit well. Petite frames get lost in so much fabric.
- Say no to Swing coats.
- Try to stay away from the big, over-powering prints and patterns.
Slimming Bottoms
Pants
For your weekend jeans, go for low-rise and fitted around the waist and hips. Boot-cut or straight are the best style for elongating. Another way to elongate this small frame is to wear all one color, such as black. Wearing a black top, well fitted black pants, and heels will allow your figure to stretch and bring the eye up vertically. This is a perfectly, sophisticated look to go out to happy hour.
Pin-stripe pants lengthen the legs and are excellent for work attire.
No, Nos!
Pants that are too wide or cuffed at the hem make you look shorter than you really are.
Skirts
The classic a-line or pencil skirt is a must for most professional or formal occasions.
Skirts with a hemline just above the knee are best.
Throw out the skirts that are way too full. Again, small figures are easily over-powered by too much fabric.
Donate skirts that pass your feet to your tall friends. If you love long skirts, keep in mind the length and fullness of the skirt. The Skirt should be straight and end right below the ankle bone. Because of your size, you also want to stick with a flowy, cotton fabric whether than thick, bulky material.
Dresses
- For cocktail or casual sun-dresses, pick v-neck lines. They automatically elongate the figure.
- Empire waists, sheaths, or shirt-dresses gathered at the waist (but not too full) are perfect for the petite frame.
- Details on the bust-line lengthen and draw the eyes up.
No, Nos!
- Don’t settle for trapezes or blousy dresses.
- Be cautious when picking out a long dress. It may swallow you.
What about those swimsuits
- Halter tops draw the eye up and enhance the bust.
- Shop for allover patterns and string bikinis
- Lucky for you…the side-cut out one-pieces are perfect for your figure. Love these!
- Show off those curves! You have it! Flaunt it!
No, Nos!
- Throw-out the little girl swimsuits. Show off those womanly curves!
