Petite Style | What to Wear When You're Short

[@StylebySheila]

What's your biggest petite style challenge?

[@cfarmer2298]

I like the dress in monochromatic tip. I gave to stop buying black lol

[@StylebySheila]

Yes, you'll look so much better dressing in colour. You will be able to sit back and watch the compliments roll in. :)

[@sueroberts3006]

Pants too long

[@StylebySheila]

@@sueroberts3006 That is a common challenge.

[@pattyelsberry7654]

Thanks for sharing your tips. I have a hard time choosing clothes to wear as a plump petite; solid colors reveal more of the tummy.

[@Democratsrock]

Here’s what I have learned as a woman who is 4’ 11”. Wear what you want. Life is way too short to put yourself into a restrictive bubble because of some guidelines that were made up by the fashion industry.

[@michelebrotman5345]

I am 5 '3 and love velvet in fall and winter. I don't feel it adds bulk at all. I feel elegant and luxurious in it. Totally agree about chunky shoes.

[@StylebySheila]

That's great. If it makes you feel elegant and luxurious that's all that matters. These are guidelines and not true for everyone. 🙂

[@fionafrazer8820]

Firstly, the "petite" manufacturing criteria these days is 5'4" and under. I'm barely 5'1" and find that it is becoming increasingly difficult to find any petite clothing, other than in JJill, Chico's (but only on line) Talbots, Loft and Ann Taylor. Stores that used to cater to petites have disappeared, and the space taken over by plus size stores. Petite sizing is to do with proportion only, and has nothing to do with what size you are. Liz Claiborne (remember them?) used to do a plus size petite line - but again that has disappeared. I don't want to look taller -what's wrong with being short? Most of these tips apply to all women, not just petite. The only thing I would absolutely agree with is to keep prints small, avoid shoes that are too heavy looking, but chunky knits can look fabulous as long as the rest of the outfit balances the bulk (which again, is true for any size).

[@StylebySheila]

I agree with you. I didn't intend to imply there's anything wrong with being short. I certainly don't believe that. When I create these videos they are intended to answer the questions of as many women as possible. Every woman's wants and needs are as unique as they are, so, some of them do want to appear taller (as some women want to appear shorter). Also, since women are all different there is always an exception as to what will look best on her. I'm speaking in generalities.

[@fionafrazer8820]

@@StylebySheila Of course - vive la difference! Thanks!

[@tinalettieri]

I agree. I had a faux mink coat about 35 years ago and I got so many compliments in it. I consigned it because it was too warm for Atlanta.

[@pj595]

I'm finding the same, petite sizes are now for 5'4, and those 4 inches make a huge difference. I think you still have more choices than we have in the UK. I find many petite styles are also young - like the only petites out there are teens or 20's.

[@nccrchurchunusual]

I am 4' 10" and size 3 child's shoesize. Dont mind being short, but any weight gain shows quickly. I am what I am- love comfortable clothes. The only thing I do right is wear mostly solid colors. I can try on 20 items and none of it fit. Crazy

[@ritaszoke6086]

One of my pet peeves about buying petite clothing is that some brands' shorten the rise of the pants, making the waist sit too low on my 5'1" frame. I am 59 and have become thick around the middle. I have found that if I buy the 'Tall' size the waist is perfect and if I like it well enough it is worth paying a tailor to hem it to my inseam, which is 28 in.

[@StylebySheila]

That's true Rita. We all have different vertical measurements and it's impossible to fit everyone into one category and petite is one of those categories. I'm happy to hear you found a solution. A tailor is a must-have for most every woman.🙂

[@kimberlyperrotis8962]

Helpful tips, thank you. Most people, including those who design clothing brands, regard petite as 5’4” or under. I’m a just-petite, at 5’4”, but I have a very small frame, narrow shoulders and hips, and a short torso. My biggest challenges are: 1) tops and dresses that are too long, making my favorite, V, necklines too low-cut and straps that fall off my shoulders; 2) shoulders of garments being way too wide, most jackets and tops have a 5” shoulder seam, but I need, at the very most, a 4”; and 3) trousers that are too big in the hips, if I’m to have decent fit at my slightly thick waist. Another complicating factor is having a naturally large bust, DD/E cup, but I know that’s for another video. Subscribed, from San Francisco.

[@StylebySheila]

When manufacturers make clothes for petites they basically just make the sleeves and hemlines shorter, they don't account for much of anything else. This is where you'd need the help of a good tailor or find styles that do work with your body.

[@caninesfirst214]

that was a great point about considering weight of material. I've never given that any thought before.

[@StylebySheila]

I’m happy it was helpful 😊

[@Rodmic-hd9pn]

Thanks so much I’m 4 ft 11 weigh 150 have a shorter life due to cancer for the 3 rd time we are going to Italy and Greece in October I want to look beautiful HELP

[@inktvis6453]

Thank you so much Dear Sheila for your important advice and tips.

[@StylebySheila]

Glad it was helpful!

[@nancywebb1845]

I'm 5 feet. I've always wondered why we needed to dress to look taller.

[@StylebySheila]

You don’t, only if you want to.

[@lola0600]

I’ve wondered the same thing. I am not ashamed of my height. I think its cute. I can look dainty without trying. It is the world that try to make you feel bad about the way you look

[@allyirvine7537]

Great tips for petites here! Really enjoyed. How can you avoid wearing bulky fabrics if you live in a cold climate? Also, how can you avoid wearing bulky shoes for the same reason? The answer must be to move to the sun 😊

[@YesToTech]

It's like you knew exactly what I needed Sheila! I'm petite and literally can't wait to put these tips into practice!

[@StylebySheila]

I'm happy to hear that.

[@evelynespoons3185]

I’m 5ft 3in tall & PETITE dressing works well for me most of the time when buying tops & dresses. But that’s not the case with slacks or jeans. Need to look for a SHORT length then instead. Love all yr videos!

[@StylebySheila]

Thank you!

[@FunkyPatriot]

I like the tag....'Sophie's Choice'. I think it was the better choice. Truly.

[@annasmith5406]

Thankyou so much Sheila for all my questions answered! I have written down all your suggestions to take with me when shopping. I now have the appropriate solutions to all my fashion mistakes and look forward to implementing them. Turning 57 has been difficult to dress as some of my clothes look too young for me now, especially as I'm not colouring my hair anymore, now a silver sister! But I don't want to dress too old either, so keeping style simpler and following your great tips. Thanks again and I've just become a subscriber 😊

[@StylebySheila]

I am so happy to hear that Anna. You're right, you don't want to dress too young or too old and it isn't always easy figuring out which is which. Thanks for subscribing - I hope you'll enjoy all the videos that are coming next. 🙂

[@cg9616]

Not about looking taller it’s being in proportion or drowned by clothes. I’m 4’11

[@meedwards5]

Petite sizing is technically 5'4" and under. But if you have a long torso, you might actually find a standard size fits you better. Monochromatic and smaller prints are great. chunky knits, boxy fit not as flattering. If you are heavier, lightweight fabric and shiny fabric accentuates lumps and bulges you may not wish to draw attention to. It is foolish to not layer and wear heavier fabrics and in Northern climates. V-necks look pretty bad on older women that have crepey skin on their neck or decolletage. Chunky shoes do indeed make anyone look shorter. But if you are hiking or live in a rural area where lightweight and heeled shoes are not appropriate, then just wear the shoes that are designed for your situation. Shoes the same color as your leg/pants will indeed make your legs look longer but they're also really boring. Fun and colorful shoes can make a delightful statement, regardless of height. I ended up learning how to sew because standard petite clothing can be very limiting and boring and for me, just doesn't usually fit well.

[@Lot-4656]

Quite helpful.Thank you.

[@kimberlyperrotis8962]

The average fit model is at least 5’7”, clothes are designed for that height, and the average petite model is 5’4”, which is not that short, and is actually the US average height for women (average size is 14-16, or XL at most brands). Clothes are designed for size 2 women. How many of us are really 5’7” or more and a size 2 or smaller? Not very many, especially in our mature age group. I think Medium sizes should be designed for the average height and weight of us customers, not models. I’m sick of having to hem my trousers 9” shorter and I’m 5’4”!

[@StylebySheila]

You're right, it would be much easier if clothes were made to fit average women instead of models. Maybe that will happen some day.

[@angieparton6434]

I agree with every single word! Preach it, sister!

[@barbaragray4309]

This video was very informative for me. Thank you very much.....

[@carmenguerrero8679]

Great info. I always struggle buying shoes!!

[@StylebySheila]

Happy to help!

[@italomaruca1101]

Great jnformations!!! Thanks.🌼

[@KarenYouncke-hj9xu]

Thank you for a great video….very good information!

[@helenharbi3999]

Brillant x im 5'2 " x thank you x

[@belkisrodriguez7208]

Thank you thank you thank you! Will put all your tips into practice right away😘

[@StylebySheila]

Wonderful!

[@greenteagoddess]

You are wonderful. Fabulous advice. Thank you. 💚

[@StylebySheila]

Thank you!

[@marciaanderson668]

My challenge many times buying clothes that are too big or long for my body size, but am getting better as age. I usually give my clothes away to my Mom and my daughter after buying and maybe wearing them once or none at all..

[@StylebySheila]

You're on the right path if you know what's not working.

[@Rodmic-hd9pn]

Thank you for the examples

[@StylebySheila]

Glad it was helpful!

[@carolinegutierrez5849]

I'm 5'2 and your tips are so helpful. Thank you!

[@StylebySheila]

You're welcome and I'm very happy it's helpful.

[@GracefulLiving1]

Great tips, thank you Sheila

[@StylebySheila]

Thanks for watching!

[@sarahlion9949]

Like it.Thank you!!!

[@StylebySheila]

Thank you too!

[@IreneDenton-b2z]

I'm 4"9 thanks for your advice. My biggest struggle is finding Womens shoes in size 3 1/2 that actually fit and are comfortable enough to walk in

[@sharonjackson538]

I have the same Problem, Usually Buy Size 4

[@apollonia-ava]

Me too !! I barely fit a 35 which is a Uk size 3 and children’s styles that size can be too childish 😂

[@ItsMeOmi]

Thank you for sharing this.

[@StylebySheila]

My pleasure!

[@jia4519]

Hi Sheila! Any tips for petite women that have a large bust?

[@StylebySheila]

Hi Jia, I will put this question on my list. What exactly would you like to know?

[@kimberlyperrotis8962]

Those huge, super-long, bulky sweaters that are so popular just look awful on us petites, as do any oversized, extra-long, boxy garments, Teddy coats/jackets, etc., they’re everywhere, too. I also won’t wear capri/mid-calf pants or tunics, they make me look stumpy, especially together, a popular look for mature women that I think is super-unflattering, dated and aging. It can also be difficult to find accessories of the right scale, when I’ve looked at “mature” brands, everything is scaled bigger to work on bigger women. On me, these make me look like a little girl wearing Mommie’s jewelry.

[@StylebySheila]

I like what you've said. It's important to get to know your own body and the styles that enhance it (and it seems that you have ) to avoid getting sucked in to the latest fashion trend.

[@fionafrazer8820]

I you buy those items (obviously not if you don't like them!) in a store that caters to petites, you will find that they have been designed to be the right proportion and will look much better. Capris are not very flattering on any size, a better choice would be a skirt if you are hot, or ankle length.

[@tinalettieri]

From your photo, you're hardly "mature" enough for "mature styles." I'm almost 76, live in a warm climate and am an artist. I wear dresses that aren't huge and flowly but just skim the body without a set in waist. Some are long, some are short. Some are a bit boho and others more classic. I have one that is a solid light blue sundress so the top is modest but a bit scooped. The skirt is a bit full but the top is slim fitting. This works with my hourglass shape. It also has ties at the shoulders which draws attention to my face in a good way. If I wear a skirt, I wear a top that comes just at my hips and the skirts tend to be long. I have a lot of problems with my feet and need to walk a lot so I ignore the shoe tips unless I know I won't have to walk much and want to look special.

[@barbarablackman3742]

Great tips:)

[@StylebySheila]

Glad you like them! Thanks for watching.

[@cfarmer2298]

Great tips

[@StylebySheila]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Dakiniwoman]

Well, my dear... I am four foot seven and I have no less than 16 fur coats... I love being 55 inches tall... I love velvet and furs... I really love being tiny... I love wearing bright color shoes like red or silver or gold...wow... I go against all your recommendations and I often get compliments especially on my unusual shoes. I wear nearly always plain dark colors and always wear monochrome tone such as a chocolate brown top and trousers, and perhaps a pop of color in my shoes and matching handbag. Yes, the long line is best. I hate a slit in a dress myself, but that is personal choice.

[@kiwi007]

In New Zealand, there is no petite sizing. You have to know how to hem a garment if you're my height, 5ft.

[@Goldenowl66]

What about in cold weather? Cotton and Linen all year round?

[@stanleyjaneway7834]

Never thought about shoes. Thank you.

[@anaelauve8070]

Hmm...Im 4'11 - dont really care about looking taller ( I get complimented on my heigth often) but yes on proportioning- my hips are rather wide- ish and long? Would love advice on this

[@StylebySheila]

It's wonderful that you don't want to look taller. I have an ebook that you can find on my website called Petite Perfection that all about what to wear for different petite body shapes -www.stylingbysheila.com/product/petite-perfection-dressing-tips-for-petites/

[@rachelmaxwell5953]

Super helpful video thank you! 🙂

[@StylebySheila]

You're so welcome!

[@Lot-4656]

I agree,

[@TSunshineful]

If it's boring...it works!

[@debbiemize2269]

I am confused now on shoes. You first said match shoes to your hemline, then later it was wear skin toned shoes. Which is it?

[@StylebySheila]

Sorry about that. It's both. You can do either.

[@ShownAsada]

Thank you from Japan🎉

[@Laura-rx9mp]

thank you. great video

[@StylebySheila]

Glad you liked it!

[@lindajackson8389]

I’m new subscriber 5’3… 5’4 on a good day TYFS ❣️

[@StylebySheila]

Welcome!!

[@noodleperson17]

Shops like Marks & Spencer in the UK no longer sell clothes in Short/ Regular/ Long lengths (though Regular seems to denote ‘normal’, which is judgemental). Regular now assumes you are 6ft tall. But plus-sizes are now standard. And why do smaller women have to subsidise clothing which uses far more material for what used to be called (shock horror) ‘fat’ people?

[@JJ33438]

thank you so much!

[@StylebySheila]

You're welcome!

[@brentdawe5809]

Excellent video! 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@StylebySheila]

Thanks!

[@carolined7870]

Very very helpful and that is what I have tried to do is to not make any outstanding color choices trying to make my shoes match and not look like I am pregnant. Ha ha with all these tops. But it is so hard to find petite clothing. I have a high waist and most jeans or pants do not come up to my waist which I can’t figure out why. But I do dress in a classic manner nothing with large pattern or loud colors. I look forward to your videos. Thank you very much from the 5 foot 2 Soon to be 80❤

[@StylebySheila]

You're welcome❤

[@Marlene-ii9zw]

I do not agree with letting the colour shoe match the hemline. As a 72yr old 5footer, I know. Wearing a neutral or nude shoe elongates the legs

[@StylebySheila]

You're right, a neutral shoe does elongate the legs and I'm happy to hear you know what's best for you. However, there are lots of women who don't want to make their legs look longer and actually want to make them look shorter. So, matching the shoe with the hemline is chic when you keep in mind your proportions. Everyone is very different so we can't all wear the same shoe, dress, pants, etc. and have it look great on all of us.

[@healthy_midlife]

Need bulk for the cold!

[@conniebisrat4553]

Thanks❤

[@StylebySheila]

You're welcome 😊

[@MrCharlespeele]

I really have to disagree about the foot. Most petite women have small feet. I wear a 5 and get compliments often on my small feet and pretty shoes. I love sparkly and fancy shoes.

[@StylebySheila]

I don't think I said anything about petite women having big feet. Actually, I think you're right most have small feet. I guess I wasn't clear regarding sparkly shoes, sparkly shoes draw attention to the feet and if you're petite you don't want attention down so low, you want to draw the eye upward. However, if you have small feet and like pretty shoes by all means, wear them. It's more important to love what you wear.

[@tinalettieri]

That's true if you're truly petite. Some of us are just short. I'm curvy, hourglass shaped, but have big hands and feet. I don't have petite proportions. I'm long waisted and have relatively long legs in relation to my height. I also have rather angular, not sloping shoulders. My first MIL had size 5's and she had a hard time finding shoes.

[@robinborsos2368]

My feet are a size 4 and since I have narrow heels, my choices are very limited. I do wear some size 5 shoes, but they tend to be loose. I put heel grips in nearly every pair of shoes I own, which means no mules or strappy heels. I buy my tennis shoes and simp,e flats in the children’s section.

[@d.annejohnson5631]

more IllUSTRATION and less camera focus on the speakers....camera should SHOW at the same time what speaker is explaining.

[@alphaomegag940]

i am 5 flat only. broad shoulder 😂😂

[@tinalettieri]

I find all these tips for petite women focus on looking taller to be annoying. Phooey! I'm 5'2" and I can't do anything about that. Good things come in small packages and I don't need to look like a runway model to be attractive. The tips about prints and some of the proportion suggestions on all sites are good. Enjoy who you are and stop worrying about not meeting some made up ideal.

[@StylebySheila]

You're right. Attractive comes in all heights. Many women want to look taller (and some want to look shorter, slimmer, larger, bigger this, smaller that) and I make videos based on what I see women are looking for. Again, I have to agree, it's a made-up ideal - one that none of us need to buy into. Styles look great on women who get their proportions right, no matter what their height. 🙂

[@tinalettieri]

@@StylebySheila Thanks. Please believe I wasn't targetting you. I can understand wanting to change something that can be changed but our height is what it is. It happens that people are always surprised I'm only 5'2". I stand straight with my shoulders straight, not hunched and I have a fairly energetic and assertive walk. I think how we carry ourselves does a lot for our height image.

[@StylebySheila]

@@tinalettieri I didn't think you were. Posture is very important, that's great.

[@tinalettieri]

@@StylebySheila Thanks, sometimes things don't come out how I mean them. Then people get offended.

[@StylebySheila]

@@tinalettieri People are easily offended these days. It's up to them whether or not they decide to be offended. If we had to baby step around everything we say, we wouldn't say much.

[@donnasalvador678]

I’ve always heard anyone 5’4” or under was petite

[@carlaowen3417]

I am 53 4 ft 9

[@ruthtorphy2204]

Shelia, how are you?

[@lestaridewi4988]

Nowady people use blok colours

[@nilou352]

im super petite

[@EmerCurran-up1ej]

Meaning??

[@americafirst9144]

Velvet? Fur?

[@SlightlySalty584]

Petite and chubby very little to choose from, yes I am actively trying to lose weight but it doesn’t happen overnight, so ugly clothes it is

[@JosephineB-j4o]

Whatever

[@LHer-gn8th]

So I don't agree. Only some of what you said is ok

[@StylebySheila]

That's totally up to you.

[@Gloriapower]

Not wearing velvet in Chicago in the winter is wrong. It looks wonderful and it's not very bulky. Other than that Sheila's advice is pretty good.

[@StylebySheila]

If you like to wear velvet that's great. These tips are generalities, everyone is different and what looks great on one petite person won't look great on another.