3. Petite: You’re on the short side and have a smaller frame. Think Rachel Bilson.
How to wear...
The Peplum: If you’re under the impression that the exaggerated silhouette of the peplum will only overwhelm your small frame, think again. Collings notes, “If the peplum has a single modus operandi, it is to emphasize the feminine form.” With your petite build, the peplum is the very item to enhance your shape from young and girlish to all-grown-up. Choose a peplum mini skirt like this magenta number from Topshop over a ruffled peplum top which could appear childlike on your frame.
The Military Jacket: To avoid looking the part of young boy playing dress-up, choose an ultra trendy variation on the traditional military jacket. Look for killer details like studding on the pockets and avoid any with double-breasted brass buttoning as this could make your look more toy soldier than soldier off-duty. This olive army jacket with studded shoulders from boohoo.com is chic and the reviews say it fits small.
The Side Panel Jean: Mile-long legs are not a prerequisite for rocking the side panel jean. Opt for a low-rise pair of that hits just above your ankle—if it means getting them tailored, so be it! Connie Wang of Refinery 29 points out, “With a tuxedo-pant-like stripe down the side, side panel jeans elongate the leg and instantly jazz up an outfit.” The best part of this jean is that it’s at its absolute best cropped at the ankle—perfect for your petite stature. These super skinny side panel jeans by Abercrombie and Fitch are cut at the ankle and come in a size 00.
Best on your shape!
The High-Low Skirt: If you feel like you drown in a maxi skirt, the high-low skirt is the answer to your prayers. The shrunken front flashes a bit of leg while the long train adds some serious drama to the whole look without overpowering your petite frame. You can’t go wrong with a black skirt like this pleated number from Forever 21 and the cropped front means no more tripping over your hem!
