Petite Power!
- UniqueisChic
- Feb 25, 2024
- 3 min read
One of my oldest and dearest friends asked for a blog post for gorgeous gals like herself who are "petite" in stature.
With a few styling hacks in your back pocket you can navigate petite sizing like a pro. Okay, lets go :-)
First off, let’s explore the average height for women and how petite sizing is categorised:
Average Height for Women:
In the US, the average height for women is approximately 5 feet 4 inches tall.
In Europe the average height for women is 5 feet 6 inches tall. Globally, average heights can vary by country due to factors like genetics, nutrition, and health.
Petite Categorization:
Petite refers to a specific clothing category designed for shorter folk.
Petite sizing typically caters to women who are 5 feet 4 inches or shorter.
Key features of petite clothing include shorter sleeve lengths, narrower shoulders, and adjusted proportions to flatter smaller frames.
Petite clothing is not limited to height; it also considers other proportions like torso length and leg length.
Dressing well as a petite lady is all about proportion, fit, and confidence.
Here are some tips to help you maximize your wardrobe and create flattering looks:
Find Your Fit:
Invest in achieving the right fit. A fair few brands cater to petite sizing (M&S Petite, ASOS Petite, Topshop Petite and MAJE and BA&SH Boden, Reformation). Lots of vintage out there too with alterations back in fashion and so on trend now. Proper fit ensures longevity in your wardrobe so it's worth investing in your clothes. I use The Zip Yard for my alterations. My daughter attends a pricey sewing class but, I figure it will pay for itself in the future once she starts doing my alterations. She's also teaching me how to use a sewing machine. It's a win-win!
Silhouette Matters:
Cropped trousers and denim can look chic with flats.
Consider A-line shapes, which create an elongated look.
Proportion and Necklines:
Pay attention to necklines. V-necks and scoop necks elongate the neck and torso. I'm 5'6" and I notice this when wearing a V-neck tee-shirt.
Three-quarter sleeves or bracelet-length sleeves can make a difference.
High-Waisted Everything:
High-waisted bottoms, such as skirts, trousers and jeans, visually lengthen your legs.
Tuck in tops to emphasize your waist.
Keep your belt the same colour to elongate your silhouette.
One-Piece Outfits:
Jumpsuits and dresses create a streamlined look without breaking up your silhouette.
Fold the hem up if too long or find a seamstress!
Layering:
Long layers add vertical lines and create an illusion of height.
Try a long cardigan or duster coat over a fitted top.
Jeans and Trousers:
Choose slim-fit jeans or straight-leg trousers. Avoid wide-legged styles that overwhelm your frame.
Opt for floor-skimming lengths to elongate your legs. Also called "puddle pants". Not a joke!
Shoes:
Pointed toe footwear is your friend. I've been wearing pointy toes for years to elongate my frame.
Chunky sole sneakers.
Platform shoes and boots.
Espadrilles in summer.
I've added some items below from petites that I like and thought you might too.
I hope you found this post helpful for you and your wardrobe. As always, reach out if you would like some help from me :-)
Stand tall my petite friends and remember good things come in small packages :-)
Lots of love,
Orla xxx
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