PETITE STYLE TIPS: Things I Avoid As A Petite To Improve My Style

[@nikkisue1715]

I am 5'1 so I really appreciate this video. I gave up heels about 15 years ago. I am now 66 years young. I now feel so comfortable with my height. It seems that many petite style pants these days are flowing very long. If I love the fit elsewhere, I will spend the money and have them tailored. The top you are wearing in the video looks amazing on you. I would love to see more videos tailored for petite styling especially dresses and jeans. Thank you.

[@cynthiajohnston424]

At 70+ , I too gave up heels years ago altho' I've a few low wedge-type "heels " ,dress shoes , for special occasions . I have always liked being 5'3" ; as a former pro equestrian , my height & body type allowed me to train / show horses of all shapes & sizes & even gallop race horses . Petite can really be an advantage ! 🙂

[@jacquelineclarke264]

So so true.

[@terysa2278]

Holy moly. This video resonated so hard. I'm 5'2 and have learned through long experience that the shoulder seam and length of sleeve is PARAMOUNT to not looking like I'm a child getting dressed in my mother's clothes. You are so so right on that. Totally agree on the crop pant length as well, it's counter intuitive because you'd think the longer the inseam, the more lengthening it is (and a lot of influencers/stylists maintain this), but I honestly find a crop that shows my ankle to be way more flattering. New subscriber, THANK YOU!

[@mariachatzihristodoulou7529]

Avoiding oversize clothes and staying in these that fit with my body shape is definitely my petite style😊

[@anonymous4142]

This is true bad sadly i struggle with this because I’m petite and skinny. I’m healthy and all but all my life I’ve been very slim and not curvy , so wearing body fitting close attract a lot of mean and unkind comments about my body 💔

[@meganbetteridge3547]

U can still wear something oversized just use a belt to singe the waist

[@marilynphan277]

I'm 4'11 and it is hard finding pants that fit right. Thanks for the tips on petite styles, I appreciate it.

[@cynthiajohnston424]

As a petite ( 5'3" , size 4 ) , I've found some brands that have become my decades-long go-to sources - for classics , Talbots ( nice neutrals plus colors for interest ) & for casual or outdoor sports / hobbies , LL Bean & Lands End . When I find jeans ( in my much loved chosen few brands ) that " fit like a glove " in my classic ( boring ? ) straight leg or barely boot cut styles , I buy multiples in varying colors or shades . Same w/ dress pants - black , navy , camel in a classic style . Brands that have specific petite sizing will have appropriate shoulder fit , neckline " depth " , pant length, sleeve lengths in both short & long styles , etc. which helps us from being overwhelmed mentally & physically ! Easy to add an updated or a trendy accessory to keep these classics fresh ! 💟

[@wisteria808]

I love Lands End, but because at 5'2" I am long-waisted, the Talbot's petite jackets and dresses hit too high up on my frame.

[@cynthiajohnston424]

@@wisteria808 I get your fit problem , but because I'm the opposite - short-waisted ! Sometimes I feel that most tops are as long as the mid-thigh length dresses I wore in my " hippie chic " days ( I'm a baby boomer ) !😂 The entire womens clothing fit issue is beyond difficult , so much so that I'm not surprised that athleisure wear is our favorite" uniform " . My mom ( a petite 5'1" ) was a wonderful seamstress & I so miss her talents of custom style , design , & fit ; fortunately it gave me a good foundation & lifetime appreciation of quality . 👗🥼🧥👖💟

[@Zamazizi]

Cropped pants were a game changer for me. The longer length pants never looked right after I got them tailored. They seem to lose their intended silhouette.

[@tinekejoldersma]

Cropped pants. Best invention for us little ones.

[@jocelyneprovost295]

Absolutly! Often, the hemming kills the silhouette of the pants, unless you are blessed to have a tailor that knows its job !

[@amandawilkinsontarot7096]

Absolutely

[@AlexLouiseWest]

Thank you for what you said about shoes. I have health problems which mess up my balance, so there's no way I can wear high heels. I'm OK with that, but it's very disappointing when some people still try to body-shame all petites into wearing high heels all the time. There's nothing innately wrong with being small!

[@amyli092]

I always appreciate it whenever I can find pants that don't need to be hemmed because it saves me from having to get less alterations done. I only wish more retail businesses would exclusively offer a short version of their pants for women, especially with me being 5'1 and having a curvy build.

[@mayflower6819]

I love your voice, smooth , warm and comforting

[@jeanninelaila4228]

As a 5'0" petite its so nice to see someone I admire so much speak to these petite life hacks. A lot of these tips have helped my style a bunch over the years and some of them are new. All are good reminders and I'm feeling very inspired and energized after this video. Thank you!

[@jennyloupdx2830]

As a 5’2” woman with a 14” shoulder to waist (torso) measurement I always look for cropped tops. If the measurements aren’t listed on a website, I use the chat feature to confirm the length for my size. I find that a 15-16” tops works perfectly, as you need to factor in the length lost in front due to your bust.

[@deniseharwood9521]

This is helpful. I've never actually measured that area, and have stayed away from cropped tops, because well, they were cropped.

[@jacquelineclarke264]

Me too.

[@nikkib0yd]

which part of the waist do you end your measurement at? I'd like to measure my torso length! The tip you dropped about chat feature for top length is super valuable! TY

[@mariac4327]

Great tips! As a 5'2" female, I avoid any wide legged pants and also trousers with pleats. I'm very curvy and those items make me look much heavier and frumpy. I do love straight leg jeans and pants. Those work out great!

[@joansomerville643]

Petite style tips are always appreciated as well as some for those who are long in the torso and shorter in the leg. Thanks for the tips!

[@teawithtams6596]

I've always dreamed about wearing long, wool coats but cannot because of my not only short height, but also small frame. I hope Audrey makes more videos for us petites!

[@lovingsunshine3515]

I’m with you. I get swallowed by the wool coats especially when they come down to my knees 😔

[@clairesimons]

I so relate to this! I eventually found the alchemical coat by Horses Atelier was the perfect petite wool coat. But it took months and months of searching and returns to get there. Still, check it out if you are curious! It’s not a petite size but the silhouette works well for me in size 0 and I could have even gone up to a size 1 ( I’m 5’2”, pear shaped, size 6-8ish).

[@carissa0503]

I completely agree with the shoulder line and sleeve length tip! Such an important detail.

[@hilarycooper9831]

Great video Audrey. I am 5’2 and really struggle with anything oversized which seems to be the trend here in the UK. I prefer tailored clothing which suits me a lot better. Heels are also an issue but I have finally given away all of them and accept I can only walk in low heels!

[@michaealmeida1789]

So helpful! Please keep them coming for us petite gals. I avoid too much fabric in jeans.

[@amberwise]

Hi Audrey! Great points!! I am petite (5"1) and around 119. I really like the wide leg pant, but got lost in them, sooo I looked for and found high waisted wide leg in Capri, and they fit beautifully! They hit at ankle on me and I get to participate in this look without looking sloppy. I pair with a snug fitting tee (crew) or more form fitting ruched cropped blouse and the look is really cute. Yes to crops and crews, no to V and lower cut tops for sure! Thank you for your videos.

[@sharonraghubar8642]

I am 4’ 11” and loved this video. Thank you very much for taking the time.

[@geraldinesmith8798]

hi co height 😂

[@rosieburrows3410]

I would love another video like this, please, Audrey! Being petite, I appreciate the tips that you've just given. Another thing that I personally struggle with are tunic tops and even some boho type tops (particularly with the bell or flute type of sleeve). As much as I like the idea of them, they just swamp me at 155cm tall.

[@conniepleasantnails]

Some nice tips to keep in mind, actually some things I’ve never thought of. I avoid pleated slacks & prints that are too large. I am short, short waisted, long legs and I am a 14. So my go to feminine style is a nice eyelet in a solid color, or a slight fringe/ruffle at the neckline or wrist. 😊❤

[@maicamaroto7003]

As a petit what I avoid is those long denim skirts that are so trendy now. They don’t suit me at all! Thanks for the idea of using cropped tops . I’ll try them on next time I go shopping. Wonderful suggestions!

[@julieloewy1815]

I loved this video. Very good points. They make everything look good online and then when you get them delivered they are a very wide leg. Thanks and please do more on this.

[@anapallikan2761]

More videos like this would be great! Dressing for a petite frame/height always feels so challenging. I find that it’s also important to under and your particular torso/inseam ration. Knowing a model’s height isn’t the whole story in knowing whether they are a good point of reference for me.

[@angelirohival6270]

I agree with you on the shoes and pants. Definitely! I’m on the curvy side, and older, so crop tops are a no for me. I stick to round necks and v necks. Thanks for the video!

[@samanthatheminimalist]

I’m so glad you made it abundantly clear what petite means at the beginning, it’s baffling to me how many people still think it means extra skinny or extra small! I’m 4’11” and I’m finding that I can’t do the wide leg pants trend, they always make me feel like a grandma and I’m 31 😂 I have had excellent luck with loft & Ann Taylor petite sizes. I also like banana republic petites and I love that at the factory store it’s not just a little section but I can peruse all the women’s wear and often find my size 🙌🏻 it’s been the biggest game changer for dresses & blazers.

[@deniseharwood9521]

Ann Taylor and BR are my go-to stores as well. And we have an outlet mall where the prices are a little better too.

[@MultiBigbird01]

Hey fellow shortie, I'm 4"5 and can only wear kids shoes so I know the feeling lol

[@lindajames4922]

I would LOVE to see more videos like this!!! I am pear shaped, constantly battling should seam placement with covering a larger mid section! Love your videos!❤️

[@julieu4305]

Love the petite video! More please!!

[@laddermonkey12]

As a petite person, I super appreciate these practical tips! Please make videos like this!

[@briangenny8670]

Thankyou Audrey for this video, I find dresses are better than skirts for my 5ft 1. Please do more videos of tips for petites.

[@totoromi9001]

Thank you ! I'm petite exactly like you so this is so helpful. We need more petite representation. 😊

[@deea7015]

Indeed we do.

[@eneidaesser566]

Would love to see more of this. I’m 5’1 and avoid very wide leg pants and oversized blazers.

[@lama_mama_]

Unrelated to the video topic but I love how I've been recognizing some of your pieces - what you wear during the main narration and in the outfit clips. It truly keeps your content realistic and relatable 😊

[@katwb99]

I'm also 160 cm and I really appreciate this video! I live in Poland and here I rarely see brands that offer 'petite' size, so I'm thankful for every tip and every trick

[@jocelyneprovost295]

I love all your videos! How come you are not already to 1 million subscribers? You are one of the few that are so good

[@zaramansoor6809]

I'm 5'1, so this video was very helpful! I'd love to see your recommendations on brands that do ready-to-wear petites and more about tailoring for petites.

[@eileenchang2173]

Hi Audrey, your blue and white top from Reformation has been on my mind so much over the last couple of years, so that when that store came to Canada I bought a similar type style (Daphne) and couldn’t be happier. I even told the sales personnel that you “influenced “ me. I hope they are following you! From Reformation, I also bought a beautiful floral dress (Kieryn linen ) and a green cardigan (Joanne cotton) to match ! 👠❤️🇨🇦

[@aubreeofarc]

I'm a 16 year old who is 5'2 and a half (almost 5'3) and curvy. One tip I do to look stylistic even though I'm a little petite is I wear flare jeans with high heels to make myself look taller and wear a crop top. Usually, it works for me perfectly even though I can be bloated at times from eating, drinking, or even menstruation.

[@deedee2455]

As a petite, I would like to see more of this, like choosing the best long dress and long skirt.

[@mo-aurora23]

So glad to have another petite/short torso fashion reference! This is so helpful.

[@aliciamolloy5948]

Great tips Audrey, thank you. Please, please do another video like this for petites.

[@moncherie6573]

Hi Audrey, can you also give us some outfit recommendations/tips for women working in the engineering field? The usual dress code is polo, pants and sneakers but I would really like to incorporate your elegant style without being overdressed 🩷

[@gailwilliams5278]

How about nice-fitting ankle length pants and a long-sleeved shirt in a subtle pattern (like pinstripes) or something more feminine (like paisley), with nice moccasins or loafers. Maybe roll up the sleeves to show off your wrists, and a delicate pendant just visible at the neck. Practical but polished.

[@jacquelineclarke264]

Sounds lovely

[@shwetaagarwal4376]

Hey Audrey, Brilliant tips. Thanks! Pls do a video for petite and pear shaped. I would really appreciate that!

[@ameliecf993]

I just went on vacation to Canada and just had a carry one and my bag . One year ago , I never thought this would be possible but in the end , I didn’t wear all clothes . Thank you for your video 🥰🥰

[@lydiaschmoore3195]

Love this!! I just discovered the crop trick as a petite last month. I would also add, buying children’s clothes for basics or loungewear. The only tshirts that work for me are little girls medium or large!! But they don’t look like I’m wearing little girls’ clothes either. I don’t totally understand why though.

[@juanita10313]

I always love your videos and find them really helpful...I would like to request something though: Could you maybe do a video on what hairstyles to wear with what type of outfit? That is something I personally really struggle with...

[@abbyharris974]

This was very helpful I am 4ft10 and I really struggles finding a style that I like and clothes that fit me.

[@trishalahansdah2976]

I would love to see more of your tips, thank you!!

[@lbeard7661]

I’m 5’7 but I love your style so much I still excitedly watch your petite videos as they pop up on my timeline. I do have a short torso so I can still adapt some of your tips.

[@anaelauve8070]

The top that you're wearing is so beautiful! Has a rennaisance feel to it. It fits your vibe. Im 4'11 but my shoulders are rather straigth - not slopped and my neck and arms long. I like blazers that hit below the buttocks- what I usually do is cuff the sleeve and I also do this with pants. When wearing wide legged pants- I make sure that they are high-waisted and fitted in the butt, hip and upper thigh area. Most importantly- I try to tuck my blouses in as much as a can and use belts. This helps a lot to elongate

[@emilybaxter]

thank you so much for the tips on shoulders and wrists, it really is important for a correct fit on my frame too. I also have trouble in the back of a more structured fitted top or dress gaping at my neck or armholes. I know what type of cut is able to be easily altered by my local seamstress so it gives me confidence I can look in proportion and have a piece that I will wear without hesitation and enjoy. You have also helped me to reconsider the type of shoes I wear as well, a closed in shoe does give a better line so thank you again for all your tips.

[@ileanye1451]

a good branch off this topic would be for those of us that are petite but with short legs. or petite and plus-size, i cannot tell you how hard it is to find something in the right size and length.

[@roxrey2482]

I agree with your suggestion of having shoulder seams hitting you correctly on the shoulders. 👍

[@lb4lov]

Great Video! I'd love some ideas on where to shop at stores that has a good selection of petite items. I went to a store (not many in my area) that had a petite section. Although there wasn't much there that called to me, I was able to pick up a few pieces. I realized why they looked so good on me was because they were petite cut. So some ideas of where to find a good selection of petite, especially for those of us who don't live in a bigger city would be really appreciated. That's so much!

[@MariAguilar-dl2cd]

Yes please more petite content.

[@quickstep145]

I'm 4"11 and I avoid v neck tops and oversized shirts. I agree with you about the cropped tops and jeans. Jeans can be hard to find though but if you do it's worth it. Thanks for the video Audrey, some useful tips here.😊

[@BrandyGu]

The shoes part!! You describe me 100% and thank goodness for the pandemic I'm more used to just wearing sneakers or flats now! I was wearing mid-heel all the time but they were actually killing my feet.

[@fionajackson4452]

I enjoy what you have to say and the aesthetics of your content so I watched this one even though the tips are not useful to me at 5'10"!

[@2twentysix]

At 5'4" with a petite frame, I'm with ya' on the flatter more comfortable shoes! Fortunately, I have a balanced torso-lower body ratio so can do scoops, v-necks etc. but I cannot do over-sized. I look ridiculous as my frame is small/petite (small wrists, hands, ankles a good indication) so I can only do well-fitted at shoulders. I love your channel for its content but you present in such a lovely manner 🙏

[@ROARobinson]

Im petite also and the crop top realization was such a game changer for me! They fit like a regular shirt on someone taller! And go beautifully with all my high waisted things. ❤

[@facetoface4009]

This is fabulous! More petite content, please!

[@Mamaki1987]

Interesting. I am 5.1 and prefer flat shoes because I walk around a lot. Only last year or so I started to incorporate small heels (vintage shoes and ankle boots with a bit of a heel).

[@wisteria808]

Love your videos! Although you are only 5'3", you are perfectly proportioned. This makes it much easier to look attractive in clothes, as opposed to those of us who are long-waisted with short legs, etc. Also, just a note that the average height for women in the United States is a little under 5 feet 4 inches tall at 63.7 inches.

[@carlarusso8626]

Thank you for this information, I was wondering who has established that 5feet3 was petite and in which context. I mean, for some scandinavian countries it’s maybe the case but if 5feet 4 is the average height in her country, Audrey should not be considered petite. Or maybe the term « petite » refers to someone who looks smaller? I don’t know but thank you for the insight

[@horace6851]

I'm 5'9''....... how I wish I was petite, you have no idea. You can always cut your pants but I can't add fabric to mine. And based on the clothing available I can believe the "normal" height is 5'4'' .

[@catk7306]

Fashion-wise petite is usually considered 5’4 and under. Designers and brands always make clothes to fit around the 5’6-5’9 mark even though in most countries 5’4 is about the average height for most women 🙄 it’s very frustrating

[@carlarusso8626]

@@catk7306 Thank you! And I totally agree with you

[@gaylefish9435]

Yes, please do more like this.

[@elizabethkapas9437]

Thank you, Audrey, for your videos, especially those relevant to petits. I am frequently frustrated with fashion lines that sell garments for my slight frame since the only adjustments made from regular sizes are that the garments are smaller or have shorter sleeves. I'm so frustrated with tops and tunics that sell as petit but come down to my lower thigh, vee necks that go way too low, bold prints that overwhelm me, even scarfs that cover half my torso...these make shopping so difficult. Thanks for your hints on cuffing or belting . Love your videos! One other comment, i am happy to see plus size models in most fashion ads today, but where are the petit models?

[@sophiemurray24]

Love all your videos but especially this one!! I’m 4”10 and love wearing suits to work, but it’s a difficult task finding nice women’s suits as it is, let along those that aren’t huge, as everything just seems to be ridiculously oversized at the moment (at least in the UK!). Also I will take the heels tip on board, as you’re right it will give you no choice but to embrace your height (and save your feet!). Would be great to get some brand recommendations for trousers/jackets and just more petite styling tips in general 😊

[@janetstraw191]

Thank you! I have a short upper body and I never considered crop tops. I already do the capri-length for an ankle-length on me! 👏👏👏🙋‍♀️🥰🇺🇸‼️

[@1vhd]

The way you speak and your voice are so soothing.

[@lindavivian4760]

I’m a 5’1” petite. I always appreciate your videos but I’m a bit surprised that you don’t recommend buying a petite size. Many brands offer them and it just seems more practical to seek them out for basic pieces rather than fussing with regular sizes and tailoring. The only time I buy regular is if I want a cropped pant to be ankle length instead.

[@karenphipps7532]

I am 4’11” so I totally understand your points!

[@Erdf3542]

I‘m not petite at 167cm but I have short legs so I do shop in that section often. Thanks for the tips!!

[@ameliafernando7104]

I have addicted to your videos 😭♥️

[@sophiehaz7830]

Thank you for not over explaining 😊

[@karenbc99]

Petite size tops from Banana Republic work well for me, evens V and scoop neck.

[@mikayugu316]

Are you Heart Evangelista's lost sister? I swear you have the same energy as her. Soft-spoken and has fashion taste. Nonetheless, thank you for this vid! I'm petite too and I'm starting to change my wardrobe.

[@priyashrs]

I LOVE the outfits here!

[@nancyjong4437]

Yes more videos please. I'm 4'10". I use saftey pins on pants and skirts. I can fluctuate in weight and i tuck my tops in that vary in thickness from silk blouse to chunky sweater.

[@heidii.4024]

It’s also important to consider body proportions. Someone shorter than 5’4” but nicely proportioned will look nice with almost any style a taller person would.

[@ladydeathstrikeX]

I am 5'5 but petite and I really appreciate these advices.

[@teribeers5447]

Love your top!

[@ganymeade5151]

Petites who have hour glass figures and who are short waisted tend to look better in sleek well fitting clothes that emphasize the waist and longer legs that give them a junior sized look. As for shoes, 2 inch heels are best for more formal and for professional occasions. Flats or athletic shoes for casual wear. Save the higher-glam type heels for evening wear at clubs, discos, and upscale parties.

[@fashionismypassiongirl660]

❤❤❤I avoid flats. I don’t like how they look on me, how they feel and making me look shorter than I am. 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@secerts8]

Hi Audrey! Love the video I can relate with the struggle! Would be great if you could more videos about petites like a series especially about wool coats. Thanks!

[@karenrobbins6656]

I recently discovered crop tops too! Good tips, thanks

[@fhcreates]

Crop jumpers etc have been a game changer for me. Means at 52 I always shop younger brands

[@sparklie962]

I try to avoid particularly wide, loose and/or "relaxed" cuts as I often just swim in them. I also avoid pants that are too short as I feel they chop my legs up and make them look even shorter than they are. It's important to me to be able to try things on and see what they look like on me, and in natural light if possible.

[@jsylvest500]

I too am a petite size at 5'1 and have to avoid long coats and sweaters because they tend to fall mid calf which really makes me look so much shorter. I also don't look good in those open sweaters, which tend to be longer in length. Thanks for more great recommendations Audrey!

[@morecoffeeicecream9451]

I had no idea you are petite! You look so tall in the videos. 😊

[@lupemartinez1411]

Thank you for the great tips. I love your videos

[@patriziabertacco8084]

Very sensible & practical suggestions. Thanks.

[@catherinemarieh7286]

Short torso and petite size makes finding clothes difficult. You have managed to master that in every presentation. I would appreciate continued discussion on how to accomplish that especially with an hour glass shape.

[@33Jenesis]

I am 5’3”. I don’t wear heels anymore because 2” and below is more comfortable. I try not to wear billowing tunic top even though it is comfy. I also stay away from maxi skirts.

[@shoopshoopy]

I would love a video or two on shoes, Audrey.

[@megaphonemysp]

I'm 4'11" and about 90% torso, so more emphatic necklines paired with a defined waist does wonders for me. As a petite woman with shorter legs, I stopped wearing shoes that are chunky, patterned, or brightly colored because they visually bookend the very short distance between my waist and the ground. All my shoes are very understated now. My waist is probably the most important visual anchor for me, so I also avoid all but the most slender belts, low-rise pants, and any dress that doesn't have a defined waist. (My sister makes fun of me for tucking even ratty, old T-shirts into sweatpants. Force of habit lol)

[@Curlgeek]

Hello Audrey.. I have been watching your videos since 4years ago. Can you share your shoe collection that you have been keeping for the past years in your sustainable journey? Thank you!

[@Dr.BrashaniReece]

Thank you SO much for this!! So super helpful

[@roslyngross6083]

I'm 4 ft 10 or 10 and a half, and have a slight build, so most 'petite' clothes are often too big. Sometimes 3/4 or 7/8 jeans in petite work well. In addition, my body is basically an inverted triangle. I find that bootcut jeans provide a bit of balance, although straights/slims are good. As well as this, I have tiny feet, and most ladies' shoes don't even come in my size, even in specialty shops. Girls' shoes sometimes work, but are often tizzy and tinselly and just look wrong (I am 70 years old). I'm no longer interested in high heels, either. I can't just choose whatever footwear I want and have to do with what I can get! Despite all this, I'm comfortable with my height and my body shape. I just wish that designers and clothes manufacturers would recognise that there are lots of us 'very petites' out there and would take us into account as much as they now take very large shapes into account (which of course is a good thing).

[@laurashewmaker]

I’m not short in height (5’7”) but I carry all my height in my legs and am short waisted. I avoid anything one piece, like dresses or one piece swimsuits. As a woman with a large chest, discovering the tankini in the 1990s was a game changer to fit my short torso without being baggy in the seat.

[@debbieberstst]

I'm only 5'0". So although I'm petite in height, I have a short touro. My leg is long compared to my height. I appreciate your suggestions! High waisted pants do not suit me; they come up to my ribs!

[@deniseharwood9521]

Me too. That feeling that when you sit down the top of my pants are in contact with the botttom of my bustline.

[@dilaniperera4878]

Hi Audrey , I love your style. Please do your house tour. because your background is always very clean and nice.