We petites know that although shorts are a non-negotiable summer staple, we need to give them a little extra thought to most flatter our figures. Sure, specific trends like cutaway vests and flare jeans (both of which we're wearing a lot right now, tbh) might come and go, but we are always going to want the option of stepping into a pair of shorts and looking cute. So I turned to a profesh stylist to ask for specifics on fit, fabric and proportion. Here's to a cool summer!
5 Rules for Wearing Shorts if You're 5'4" and Under, According to a Stylist
Plus photos of my own shorts makeover
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Updated Jun 5, 2025
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Original photos: Dana Dickey
Meet the Expert
Tamika Harris is a stylist at Stitch Fix, where she uses her demonstrated history of working in the apparel and fashion industry as a people and operations leader. She's skilled in in-store marketing, retail sales, store management and more. She earned a Bachelor of Arts focused in Graphic Design from California University of Pennsylvania.
The Top Brands to Shop for Petite Shorts
Original photos: Dana Dickey
1. Go Monochrome
"Wearing one color head-to-toe, especially in neutrals like soft green, oatmeal, or navy, creates an uninterrupted line that helps you appear taller," Harris says. "For a resort-ready moment (a trend that’s booming among our clients), a breezy linen button-down and matching shorts in a tonal shade can instantly complement your vacation look."
Original photos: Dana Dickey
2. Choose the Right Inseam
According to Harris, the right length is everything. "Shorts that hit mid-thigh tend to be the most flattering on petite frames since they show just enough leg to elongate without overwhelming your proportions," she says. "Tailored or structured shorts are a great choice for petite women, especially for the workplace. They are increasingly pairing them with modern blazers and low heels as part of the “Corporate Renaissance” trend." Save your shorter shorts for weekends and vacations, she recommends.
Original Photos: Dana Dickey
3. Elevate with Shoes That Add Height—Literally or Visually
"Heeled sandals, platform sneakers or even a sleek cowboy boot can work wonders for shorter women when styling shorts," the stylist says says. Cowboy core is still going strong, with Harris noting "a major uptick in Western-inspired styles." For more polished settings, she says that block-heeled sandals or kitten heels can lengthen the leg line and elevate the outfit without needing to wear a dress.
Original Photos: Dana Dickey
4. Use Accessories Strategically
Here at PureWow, we love a belted moment. Harris shares our enthusiasm, and recommends adding one at your natural waistline to add structure and break up proportions for short women. "I also recommend vertical accessories—such as long pendant necklaces or a cross-body bag—which draw the eye down and help lengthen your look," she says. "If you're going monochrome, play with textured bags in raffia or beaded materials to add visual interest without breaking the line."
Original Photos: Dana Dickey
5. Don’t Give Up on Denim Shorts—Just Get the Right Fit
Finding denim shorts you actually want to wear is half the battle. Harris says the key is to look for styles with a bit of stretch, a mid-rise, and a wide leg opening "so they don’t ride up or feel restrictive." She says Stitch Fix helps "clients find denim shorts that fit their body—not the other way around—to feel confident whether you’re heading to a backyard BBQ or dressing them up with your favorite top and sandals for brunch."
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