Tips & tricks for dressing the petite body shape.
Dressing the petite body shape is not always easy. A petite person doesn’t have height on their side, and it can be a challenge getting proportions right when getting dressed. Here are a few helpful hints for those with a petite body shape, to help you look your best.
Look taller than you are!
Image: Pinterest
The aim of the game is gaining height without having a growth spurt, by creating the illusion you are taller than you actually are. Your job is to style in a way that gives your audience’s eyes “up and down” vibes.
Clothing that draws the eye along the vertical axis include vertical stripes, clothing with seams that run down, accessories and jewellery that drop rather than sitting horizontal and a vertical cut to clothing.
Proportions matter. This is where a high waisted pant or skirt are your best friend. Think length – a high waisted pant or skirt creates the illusion your legs are longer than they are. So instead of going for those mid-rise jeans, head to the high waisted section and make your legs start at your waist rather than at your hips.
Struggle with little space in your mid section? Then go for items that create length at the top of your body shape. Tops with a V-neckline and length at the arms can bring length to the torso. Avoid any horizontal lines, details or belts that cut you off.
Tonal dressing is another great way of creating length. Make on continuous line of colour from head to toe to make your viewing take in your full length.
Shoe choice matters.
Image: Fabfashionfix
A heel can naturally help with height (obviously) but there’s more: a round toe can make you look shorter, whereas a pointed shoe can make your foot appear longer, making you look taller! Or when you are deciding should I wear the black or the nude? In everyday environments, a nude will not stunt your height like a darker colour shoe might.
Bigger is not better.
Image: Celebmarfia
Overcome the temptation to dress in oversized clothes. Structured clothing is more favourable to the petite body shape. Instead of dressing in bulky jumpers or an oversized blazer, go for a well fitted blazer or a thinner jumper to bring the eye back to your body shape.
Find a tailor and makes friends with them!
Image: Pinterest
If you find that perfect item in store, but the arm (or leg) is just too long, then get it altered! Yes, even jeans. It will change your complete look by simply making sure all pants and skirts are the right length for your body shape.
Want to learn more about how you dress for your body shape? Get in touch!
