How To Dress The Petite Frame For Summer
Summer is here and the temperature is rising! Is your wardrobe ready? It’s time to take those dresses and shorts out of storage and reexamine: What can you get rid of? What’s no longer figure flattering? What are the season’s must-have pieces?
It’s important to take note of what’s trendy but still be aware of what you’re capable and not so capable of pulling off! When you’re petite (a woman measuring in at 5’4” or under), this exercise can often prove challenging. Runways may be made for the tall, but petites fret not, here are some tips to help you dress for summer days:
Lift With Your Legs
Warning: Although cropped and capri pants have become summer wardrobe staples, petites should be cautioned and wear them only if they fit below the widest part of the leg. This can have an elongating effect and makes pairing them with a funky strappy sandal, a great summer combination.
Line It Up
The nautical look may be all the rage this summer, but horizontal sailor stripes make you look shorter and wider; not taller. Opt for vertical stripes on the top or the bottom (just please, not at the same time!). Vertical lines elongate and slim the body, this effect can also be achieved with vertical seams and zip-front styles.
Dress Me Up
Dresses are a great way to feel the breeze and keep cool when the thermometer rises. V-neck and empire waist styles that fall above the knee create an unbroken vertical line, making petites appear taller. Alternatively, light and airy ankle-length dresses can also create a long, lean line that’s flattering not to mention comfortable!
Beware Of Straps
Gladiator and strappy sandals are at the height of popularity this season, but all those straps do nothing but work against your height. They cut the leg and disrupt the vertical line; 'T' and ankle straps also fall into this category. Instead, choose a simply designed shoe or sandal with a fun colour or made out of a unique material. Backless wedges are probably the best option to add height. When paired with a short skirt or dress, legs appear inches longer.
Keep It Simple
Monochromatic dressing creates length and slims the body. Choosing one solid colour or pattern for an entire outfit is visually lengthening. No need to stick to boring black though! Colour is always in style; don’t be afraid to try it on for size. When it comes to patterns however, take note of the fist rule. Patterns that are larger than your fist shorten and overwhelm the petite frame. To appear taller, it’s best to stick with small, dainty patterns.
Be A Weekend Warrior
Summer weekends usually mean shorts, a t-shirt and a ponytail. Instead of a normal crew or boat-neck shirt, choose a v-neck, which helps elongate the neck. And don’t feel bad or lazy about tossing your hair up in a ponytail either. Shorter hairstyles and up-dos also help to elongate the neck, making you look taller.
Don’t Worry, Be Happy (and Comfy!)
Don’t stress over following these or any other fashion-related rules. The most important part of any outfit is how you feel wearing it! Dress for the weather and wear what makes you feel comfortable. There’s nothing worse than having to spend an entire evening readjusting or fighting against your clothing.
Written by: Sharon Luck, Petite Fashion Expert and Co-Owner, Naturally Petite.
Located in Richmond Hill, Ontario, Naturally Petite caters to women who are 5’4” and under. Their skilled and professional staff ensure that every woman who walks in the door leave with great fitting clothes and a better understanding of how to dress their frame. http://www.naturallypetite.ca/