Fall is a great time for thigh-high boots, massive trench coats and billowy palazzo pants…said no woman ever under 5’3”. Here are seven staples petite ladies actually need in their arsenal—all big on style even if you’re small of stature.
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No offense to the midi or maxi, but when it comes to petite figures, minis that highlight your gams are definitely the way to go. An A-line silhouette is doubly flattering, as it shows off your waist before floating away from the hips and thighs. As it gets colder, wear yours over a pair of thick tights, or slip into an equally flattering pair of knee-high boots.
Get the look: Zara ($45); Loft ($70); Veronica Beard ($295)
Think you’ll drown in fabric? Think again. These guys cinch your waist, creating an hourglass figure, while the high rise creates the illusion of longer legs. (Meaning, yes, you can wear them with flats.) Just make sure to pair with a slim-fit, tucked-in top to avoid looking sloppy.
Get the look: BP. ($49); The Fifth Label ($88); BCBG Max Azria ($198)
Cozy knit dresses are an autumn go-to, but often have too much material for short ladies. Opt for a V-neck that hits above the knee (you can always throw on tights or a blazer). This neckline elongates your overall frame, and brings the focus up to your face.
Get the look: Three Dots ($128); Lauren Ralph Lauren ($135); Vince ($385)
Not only do moto jackets look super cool, they can also make you look taller. That’s because they’re usually slightly cropped, which elongates your legs by cheating your waistline up a few inches.
Get the look: BLANKNYC ($98); Cupcakes and Cashmere ($150); Allsaints ($498)
Three things to know about wrap dresses: They’re transitional, they’re easy to wear and they’re flattering as hell. Maximize the slimming effects by pushing the sleeves above your elbow and matching your shoes to the length. (If it hits at the knee or below, heels—no matter how low—are the way to go.)
Get the look: Halogen ($99); Banana Republic ($138); DVF ($398)
We know what you’re thinking: What can a notoriously unflattering denim style do for me? Glad you asked: Not much, unless you know how to style them. First, tuck in your top to define your waist. Next, cuff them. Showing off a little ankle will make your legs look longer—even if you’re wearing sneakers.
Same idea as mom jeans, just office-appropriate. A fabulous dressed-up option, cropped culottes are effortlessly cool, figure-flattering and can make even the tiniest of ladies look like she owns the room. (Which you do, after all.)
Get the look: City Chic ($79); Monrow ($112); Helmut Lang ($360)
