If you want to talk petite, then I’m game. I stand tall (pun intended) at 157cm and know what it’s like to struggle with dresses that don’t quite fit the right length. Maxi dresses on me? Forget about it. Most times they drag, although I have found one exception in my travels to Hong Kong where it cinched at the waist and was the perfect length! Suffice to say, that’s the only maxi dress I own.

Let’s face it, most of the clothes we see in our favourite fashion stores and made for the average woman, and that’s at least 5 feet 5 inches. It’s rare to find stores that carry a petite section, but when I do spot it boy am I excited!

I love how brands are slowly recognising the need to celebrate petite women in all their compact glory. Topshop is one exception, but the price point on those clothes means I often have to be very selective about my purchases.

With that in mind, I always keep in mind what styles look great on petite women – we can’t afford to just pick anything off the shelf and try to wing it. Choose wisely and that will pay off. If you need some help, here you go!

Related: Fashion Trends & Tips to Try for Shorter Women 

1. The Fit and Flare

This is my personal favourite and I currently own more than 3 dresses in this style. It does wonders for the petite woman – as it fits just where it needs to. The fact that the flare is narrower means it doesn’t drown us and makes the fact that it is tight around the waist creates the illusion that our legs are long. Win!
Image: asos.com
Image: asos.com

2. The Shirtdress

I never thought this would look great on me since it might just look like I’m wearing an oversized men’s shirt. But I was proven very wrong when I gave it a try. Go for styles that are above the knee and it creates the illusion that our legs are miles long. If you want to create an even more flattering look, use a belt around you waist to create some definition.
Image: asos.com
Image: asos.com

3. The Midi

Another personal fave! This dress isn’t quite a maxi nor is it a knee length dress. It’s mid-way and looks amazing on us smaller women, somehow creating the illusion of a longer calf. Find a well fitted dress and pair this with some sneakers and voila.
Image: asos.com
Image: asos.com

4. The Shift

Just like the Shirtdress, this works in a similar way creating the illusion of mile long legs. It evens out our proportions and you can pair this with a waist belt and some high heels to add a bit of edge.
Image: asos.com
Image: asos.com

5. The Belted Dress

For all the right reasons, it’s fitted around the waist and accentuates our curves. Stand small and proud!
Image: asos.com
Image: asos.com

6. The Drop Waist

I haven’t tried this look yet but I think I will after seeing some of these amazing looks. It’s a great dress for those with shorter torsos (like me). The dress distracts from the waist line which gives you the illusion of a long line of sight. Check it out on Victoria Beckham!
Image: sosueme.ie
Image: sosueme.ie

There you have it fellow petite ladies, now let’s go out there and show em what we’ve got.

– Cover Image: racked.com

Also read: 
Blazers and How to Wear Them;
Fashion Tips to Wearing Leggings

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