I’m short. That fact in itself it not a huge deal, and on average, I feel that there are more pros than cons to being on the shorter side of the collegiette population… with the obvious exception of needing to bust out the step ladder (or, better scenario, the handsome neighbour) any time you want to reach that object on the top shelf. However, as graduation approaches and real-world concerns loom ever nearer, I for one, am becoming increasingly aware of my limited wardrobe options. As a result of my just-scraping-5’1” stature, it is not uncommon for me to look inconveniently young no matter what I’m wearing, and moreover it can be difficult to find a personal style appropriate for everyday errands or date nights, let alone job interviews, given that more mature clothes tend to be manufactured in larger lengths and sizes.
But, obviously, I’m not the only one. And the good news for us vertically-challenged is that more and more petite actresses* are becoming regular fixtures on the small screen; specifically gaining notoriety for their enviable style. Although they have the obvious advantage of no budgetary restraints, there are definitely lessons to be learned from the way the Olivia Pope’s and Aria Montgomery’s of the (primetime) world approach their various height-meets-style needs. My conclusion is that a compilation of style tips to be gleaned from our favourite television characters seems the only logical way to proceed when planning for the transition from Uggs and t-shirts to a more adult wardrobe.
*according to IMDB, Washington, Bell, Hale, Bilson, and Parker are 5’4”, 5’1”, 5’2”, 5’2”, and 5’3” respectively
1. Kerry Washington as Olivia Pope, Scandal
What we should take away: Tailoring is key. Whether it’s a pant-suit, a ball gown, or her infamous silk pajamas, Olivia Pope always fits impeccably into her clothes. Detail-oriented tailoring takes into account her smaller proportions, ensuring that she is not unnecessarily swamped by excess fabric in any areas. Even a pair of jeans will be revolutionized in way of making you seem leaner and more mature if you simply get them hemmed.
Personal Preference: If anyone can rock a tailored coat (or blazer) like there’s no tomorrow, it’s Olivia Pope. She proves that being petite doesn’t mean we have to shy away from longer coats, but take note that her coats tend to be simple, and monochromatic, with one interesting detail in the buttons or neckline so as to avoid swamping her frame. The coat also becomes an outfit, so remember not to have too much going on underneath or around it.
2. Kristen Bell as Jeannie Van der Hooven, House of Lies
What we should take away: Business attire does not have to consist of a suit in a neutral colour. Although Olivia Pope’s drool-worthy business wear leans towards a more neutral and pastel palette, and makes excellent use of mono-chromatics to lengthen her figure, Jeannie demonstrates a more ready-to-wear work wardrobe of handy separates and accessories. Her style changes from tailored pants and billowy dress-shirts in season one, to more shape-cinching belts and dresses during Kristen Bell’s pregnancy, but accessories have always been Jeannie’s ‘thing’, and she brings pops of colour or pattern into the office environment in a way which is both flattering and eye-catching.
Personal Preference: Jeannie also makes regular use of massive bags. Ultimately, this trend, common amongst women in general, but also amongst the petite actresses shown here, conveys the practicality of large bags in both work and daily life. If you personally prefer smaller bags, then carry on. But the proliferation of giant bags amongst our favourite petite characters should prove that we can carry them for functional purposes without looking ridiculous alongside them.
3. Lucy Hale as Aria Montgomery, Pretty Little Liars
What we should take away: Combinations, be they of different patterns or different layers, do not have to overwhelm your frame. Aria is a great example of how to do young, individual, and funky, without looking childish (ironic, considering she’s portraying a high-schooler…). Her style often combines a more fitted piece with a looser one overtop (or a fitted top and a flared skirt), which usually creates a clear and flattering waistline in her outfits. Plus, her leather jackets are often cropped, which is best for smaller frames.
Personal Preference: The socks. Aria has a penchant for knee-high or over-the-knee socks which, aside from being hard to keep from slipping down throughout the day, can shorten legs by cutting them at unflattering horizontal angles. If you can pull them off, they can be fun, but bear in mind that they will conjure potentially unwanted associations to school uniforms.
4. Rachel Bilson as Dr. Zoe Hart, Hart of Dixie
What we should take away: You can display youth without looking junior, and professionalism without losing your personality. Zoe often uses different textures and coloured pants to give her work outfits a fresh summery feeling.
Personal Preference: If Zoe is your young-professional style guru, perhaps leave her leather short shorts at home. Kudos if you can pull them off in general, but unless you work at a very fashion-forward office, they’re not work-appropriate. Age- and figure- appropriate, yes, but work-appropriate, no.
5. Sarah Jessica Parker as Carrie Bradshaw, Sex and the City
What we should take away: Dare to be yourself, whether that involves a tutu or a pair of Jimmy Choos; or in Carrie’s case, both! As long as it fits and you like it and feel confident in it, it’s fair game.
Personal Preference: High heels. A killer pair of high heels will obviously add length to any outfit, from a work suit to jeans and a t-shirt, to a fancy dress. Carrie Bradshaw is a shoe goddess, and if your feet can handle it, channel her whenever you want that added boost of height and confidence.
Photos retrieved from:
http://barefoot-duchess.blogspot.ca/2014/03/olivia-pope-tv-style-icons.html
http://www.hollyscoop.com/sites/hollyscoop.com/files/p18hr7rf2bosnacd8t1m8irf4.jpg
http://mbymademoiselle.files.wordpress.com/2013/11/fotor112191933.jpg
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/11/20/tv-wardrobes_n_4306883.html