10 Clothing Tips for Petites

Petite is a term used to describe someone who is short in stature, usually under 5’4″. This is actually rather interesting to me because I recently read somewhere that the average height of American women is 5’4″. That would mean that a large percentage of our society is considered petite. The term can also refer to having a smaller frame and delicate features. Petite clothing is designed specifically to fit the smaller proportions of shorter individuals.

Most people think that petite just means “short” and that having a shorter length or inseam is the only adjustment that we need for pants to fit. That can sometimes be okay, however, when petite clothing is designed, it typically has a shorter inseam, shorter torso, and shorter sleeves than regular sizes. The armholes and necklines are also adjusted to fit a petite figure. Additionally, petite clothing often features a higher waistline to flatter a smaller frame. Petite clothing is designed to fit the body better and create a more flattering silhouette.

Clothing Tips for Petites

1. Avoid wearing clothes that are too baggy; instead, opt for more tailored pieces that will fit your body more snugly and flatter your figure.
2. Look for pieces with hemlines that hit just above the knee; this will help to elongate your legs.
3. Choose patterned pieces to create the illusion of added height.
4. Avoid wearing some horizontal stripes as they can make you look wider and shorter. I personally like a thinner stripe or a monochromatic stripe instead.
5. Try wearing a monochromatic look; wearing one color head-to-toe can create a slimming and lengthening effect.
6. Look for belts that fit your natural waist, which will create the illusion of an hourglass figure.
7. Wear heels to give yourself a few extra inches of height.
8. Accessorize with statement jewelry to draw the eye up and away from your lower half.
9. Wear v-neck tops to create the illusion of a longer torso.
10. Opt for cropped jeans or pants that are cinched at the ankle to show off your shoes and create the illusion of longer legs.

You can see this maxi dress is perfectly proportioned for my 5’2″ height.

I’ve written in the past about a subscription clothing box that is personalized for petite ladies. I found some really nice things through this site. They send you a box of curated items that fit your style and your request of items that you may be looking for.

I often do my shopping for my petite clothing at Ann Taylor, Loft, Nordstrom, or Banana Republic and Athleta (for athletic wear). Their clothing is nice for petites because alterations by a tailor aren’t usually necessary.

Where do you shop for your petite clothing?

Coming up soon… how to wear regular size clothing when you’re petite.