Let’s face it, shopping can be hard when you’re short. As I discussed in my article “Where are the petite models,” most fashion models are at least 5’8, and that lack of accurate representation can make it hard to determine what will actually look good on your frame. However, that doesn’t mean short isn’t stylish! Here some fashion tips and tricks (I always use these) that will make you look taller and feel more confident if you’re 5’4 or shorter.
- Vertical Stripes
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Vertical stripes elongate and flatter. This simple pattern goes up and down in a way that creates an illusion of length. Rock them on pants, a dress or a top to look longer and slimmer! Just be sure not to confuse them with horizontal stripes- side to side stripes are overwhelming and will make you look wider rather than longer.
- Crop Tops
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Whether you wear them as-is for a night out or dress them up with a jacket and jewelry for a classier look, crop tops never fail to make you look taller. Showing some skin at your belly area will create the illusion that your torso is longer than it actually is. That’s me in the cover pic wearing a crop top, and lots of people I know were surprised by how much taller I look in that pic than I am in real life!
- Pointy Shoes
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If you want footwear that will make you look taller without actually wearing high heels, shoes with a pointy toe are the way to go, because they will make your legs look longer. The point at the end gives off a vibe of sophistication and length, so this can sometimes make you look like you’re wearing heels when you’re not.
- Solid Color Monochromatics
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A monochromatic outfit will give off a uniformed and complete look and the full-body consistency can make your whole body appear taller and even slimmer. Have fun with it whether you want to rock a bold all-red jumpsuit or a classic black blouse and matching black pants. Just don’t try monochromatics in a printed pattern unless it’s vertical stripes. A busy pattern covering your body will overwhelm your petite frame, which is why solid colors are the way to go. As they say, you should be wearing your outfit, your outfit shouldn’t be wearing you!
- Miniskirts & Minidresses
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A great way to make your legs look longer is to actually show some leg. Short girls look great in miniskirts and minidresses that lie over the knee because they show just enough leg to make our frames look longer while still rocking that cute, girly look that miniskirts and dresses are meant for.
- High-waisted Jeans
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High-waisted jeans are the best jeans to make your legs long longer. Since they go up your hips, they literally cover so much of your bottom half that they automatically elongate this half of your body without you really having to put any other effort in. If you really want a flattering look, pair high-waisted jeans with a crop to elongate both your legs and your torso!
- Try to keep it fitted
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When you have a petite frame, you don’t want to lose your shape, so it’s important to avoid wearing anything too boxy or anything too loose on you. Not that you have to wear skin-tight outfits every day, but sticking to more form-fitted clothing is a good way to flatter your figure and draw attention to your shape rather than your lack of length.
- High Heels
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If all else fails and you really want some extra inches, just go for the high heels. Their purpose is to make you taller without having to do anything else, so they’ll automatically give you the height you want. Just be careful not to trip or slip!
Disclaimer: These are just some general outfit tips for you’re looking to dress in a way that’ll make you look taller and flatter your frame. But as long as you feel good in what you’re wearing, don’t be afraid to rock it. Confidence is the one thing anyone can wear to feel like the world is a runway whether you’re 4’11 or 6’0 tall!