As a self-proclaimed fashion enthusiast, I must confess that I don’t actually fit into the petite category. At 5ft6, I can generally be considered ‘average’ height to most people, but even I can struggle with the length and fit of some clothes whenever I go shopping. It can be frustrating enough finding pieces I love and having to have them taken up or in, but when you’re also up against figuring out what to wear in the transition between spring and summer weather, getting ready in the morning can be a challenging process. Thinking of petite shoppers and how often this conundrum must affect you, I set about asking petite fashion editors for the pieces that work best for them in the same situation. There were obvious suggestions (avoid baggy jeans, puddle pants and maxi dresses), and some I hadn’t even thought of (drawstring trousers get a big yes), and eventually we whittled it down a concise list of transitional wardrobe wonders that I had to share with you.
Essential Pieces for a Petite Spring Wardrobe
The Oxford Shirt
Button-down shirts always look cooler oversized, slouchy, undone and longer in the cuffs and hems. This style, often referred to as the “boyfriend” look, has been a staple in every cool girl’s summer wardrobe for the last five years. For petite women, this style is particularly flattering as it creates a balanced look without drawing attention to the height. If you have sized up to the perfect fit in the body but the arms are still too long, simply roll them up to the elbow for the effortless “I just threw this on” effect that I’ve spotted petite women nailing so well.
When it comes to shopping for an Oxford shirt, look for one that is made from a high-quality fabric such as linen or cotton. These materials will not only provide a comfortable fit but also a stylish look. Some of my favorite places to shop for Oxford shirts include Uniqlo, where you can find a wide range of styles and colors, and With Nothing Underneath, which offers a variety of stylish and affordable options.
Drawstring Trousers
A chic pair of drawstring trousers is the easiest solution to find a waist that fits. Don’t faff around with tailoring waistbands, once you find a length that works for you, a drawstring pull is an instant fix that you can adjust in seconds—no belt required. In summer, linen iterations are going to be your saving grace, but you can start wearing them now with some cosy layering up top.
When shopping for drawstring trousers, look for ones that are made from a comfortable and breathable fabric such as cotton or linen. These materials will not only provide a comfortable fit but also a stylish look. Some of my favorite places to shop for drawstring trousers include M&S, which offers a wide range of styles and colors, and Nobodys Child, which offers a variety of stylish and affordable options.
The Midi Skirt
The beauty of the midi skirt is that no matter where it lands between below the knee and mid-calf, it always looks the perfect fit. If like my fellow editors you’re tired of wearing minis, or struggle to find a maxi that doesn’t pool around your feet, midis are still the fashion insiders’ skirt length of choice, and they’re perfect for petite women who may otherwise gravitate towards trousers for ease.
When shopping for a midi skirt, look for one that is made from a high-quality fabric such as cotton or linen. These materials will not only provide a comfortable fit but also a stylish look. Some of my favorite places to shop for midi skirts include Reformation, which offers a wide range of styles and colors, and Free People, which offers a variety of stylish and affordable options.
The Puff Sleeve Blouse
Big, romantic blouses are a staple in every fashionista’s wardrobe, and for petite women, they can be particularly flattering. Look for one with a fitted bodice and a full skirt to create a balanced look. You can pair it with a pair of high-waisted trousers or a flowy maxi skirt for a chic and stylish look.
When shopping for a puff sleeve blouse, look for one that is made from a high-quality fabric such as silk or cotton. These materials will not only provide a comfortable fit but also a stylish look. Some of my favorite places to shop for puff sleeve blouses include & Other Stories, which offers a wide range of styles and colors, and Madewell, which offers a variety of stylish and affordable options.
The Shift Dress
A shift dress is a versatile and stylish piece that can be dressed up or down. Look for one made from a lightweight fabric such as cotton or linen, and pair it with a pair of sandals or wedges for a chic and stylish look.
When shopping for a shift dress, look for one that is made from a high-quality fabric such as cotton or linen. These materials will not only provide a comfortable fit but also a stylish look. Some of my favorite places to shop for shift dresses include Zara, which offers a wide range of styles and colors, and ASOS, which offers a variety of stylish and affordable options.
You may also enjoy reading: “9 Zara Minimalist Buys That Will Sell Out First This Spring”.
Accessories
Accessories can make or break an outfit, and for petite women, they can be particularly important. Look for a statement piece such as a bold necklace or a pair of earrings to draw attention to your face and create a balanced look.
When shopping for accessories, look for ones that are made from high-quality materials such as gold or silver. These materials will not only provide a stylish look but also a long-lasting one. Some of my favorite places to shop for accessories include BaubleBar, which offers a wide range of styles and colors, and J.Crew, which offers a variety of stylish and affordable options.
Creating a Capsule Wardrobe
A capsule wardrobe is a collection of essential pieces that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits. For petite women, a capsule wardrobe can be particularly helpful in creating a balanced and stylish look. Here are a few tips for creating a capsule wardrobe:
Start with Basics
Start by building a foundation of basic pieces such as a white shirt, a pair of jeans, and a black dress. These pieces can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits.
Add a Statement Piece
Add a statement piece such as a bold necklace or a pair of earrings to draw attention to your face and create a balanced look.
Invest in Quality
Invest in high-quality pieces that will last longer and provide a stylish look. Look for materials such as cotton, linen, and silk, and avoid fast fashion.
Edit and Curate
Edit and curate your wardrobe regularly to ensure that it remains balanced and stylish. Get rid of pieces that no longer fit or that are no longer in style, and add new pieces that reflect your personal style.
