PETITE BODY IMAGE: BEAUTIFUL AT EVERY SIZE
Petite fashion sizes first appeared in the late 1940s, reports The New York Times, when fashion designer Hannah Troy noticed that regular clothing was too long-waisted for shorter women. However, for years after petite sizing was introduced into the fashion world, relatively few designers took note, and the selection was small. Today, Macy’s petite clothing is designed to fit and flatter the frame of a woman who is 5’4” and under. We’ve pulled together some styling tips and key items that will help empower your petite body image. Clothes don’t make a woman, but they can certainly give your self-esteem a boost. To find the best fit for your body, shop the latest petite styles from your favorite brands, including Style & Co, LAUREN Ralph Lauren and INC International Concepts.
Styling Tips to Help Heighten Your Body Image
Begin the path to the remarkable you with clothing that lengthens and elongates your petite frame. Follow these pointers to make the most of every inch of your silhouette.
- Choose an A-line dress that defines your waist and flares outward at your hips and thighs. An A-line dress is a flattering piece for every petite woman’s wardrobe. To elongate your neck, select a petite A-line dress with a V-neckline. These dresses create a lovely vertical line that gives the illusion of more height.
- Flaunting a trendy maxi skirt or dress is key to maximizing your height and creating a longer line. Look for maxi dresses with an empire or belted waist that will add definition to your silhouette.
- If you want your legs to appear longer, dress in high-waist petite trousers. A wide-leg silhouette is flattering on most body types. Pair your high-waist trousers with a blouse that shows off a hint of skin for a balanced look. A short-sleeve, three-quarter or V-neck blouse will be a perfect partner for your trousers.
- A statement-making jumpsuit—the one-piece wonder creates a dramatic vertical line that will make you seem taller. Consider jumpsuits in solid colors to create a sleeker silhouette. Jumpsuits aren’t just for casual wear. Dare to be different at special occasions, and sport a dressy jumpsuit and heels.
- Showing off your legs with a mini skirt will help lengthen your form, making you appear taller. Shop for mini skirts or knee-length skirts in lieu of midi skirts that will truncate your silhouette. If you’re showing off your legs, ensure that your top half is more covered to keep your outfit looking polished. A sweater or long-sleeve blouse is an ideal way to keep your mini skirt classy.
- Drawing the eye upward, volume sleeves are an excellent styling choice for petite women. Giving the illusion of broader shoulders, volume sleeves will make your waist appear smaller.
- Create a sleek and lean silhouette by wearing monochromatic outfits. Having a matching top and bottom does wonders to help lengthen your frame.
- By producing a longer line, vertical stripes will instantly give you the illusion of more height. And they’re slimming, too! Pants, skirts and dresses with vertical stripes will be bold pieces in your wardrobe to get you noticed.
- By showing off a bit of your legs and your shoes, high-low hemlines will help you appear to be taller. Shop for high-low dresses blooming with a floral print for a trending look. Remember to select a print that’s smaller in scale, so it won’t overpower you.
- Slip on nude shoes when you’re flaunting bare legs in shorts or dresses. They help to elongate your form.
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As a petite woman, you should opt for ankle boots that show off more your legs to create a longer line. Matching your tights with your boots will also help lengthen your silhouette.
Helpful Hint: You should avoid mid-calf boots that will shorten your silhouette. - Make your own rules. Dressing in what makes you feel happy and confident is the most important tip to remember.