Clueless about Petite Fashion

I am Petite and a little on the curvy side (with a bust and a butt). At four foot eleven inches and about 105 to 110lbs I am constantly questioning if my fashion choices are right for my body. The last thing I want to do is emphasize my height or lack there of. I have a million questions:

• Should I wear capris?
• Can I get away with wearing shorts and if so what length?
• What length and shape of skirt should I wear?
• Can I wear A-line jackets and dresses?
• Should I be tucking my pants into my winter boots?
• What length on top is best portioned for my body?
• The trend is big jewelry. What scale should I wear?
• What type of neckline – crew, v-neck, scoop?
• What scale of hand bag?
• When I am wearing a flat shoe is it okay to cuff my pants?
• Can I wear tall boots with a capris pant?
• What style of dress should I buy?
• Is there any trends that I should stay away from?
• What cut of jean should I wear?

My problem is also compounded by my age (26yrs) and the fact that I look even younger than I am. I have just had my first baby and I am constantly getting looks like I am a teenage mom. I have also had trouble getting my career off the ground – people look at me and just assume that I am a child. Having said all this I am from a small town called Midland (north of Barrie) and high fashion simply looks out of place here. How do I balance my desire to look older and more mature with a small town casual?

Sincerely,

Clueless about fashion

Dear Clueless...

Capris:Choose length that’s ends past your calf. Never wear capris that end in the middle of your calf, that goes for every petite shape. It will cut off your legs and make them appear…gasp…short and stumpy. Your heels should be low cut in front and a lighter shade to match your skin tone (tan, gold, beige).

Shorts:Choose a longer length, like a walking short and pair them with heels (don’t even think about flats here). Your heels should be low cut in front and a lighter shade to match your skin tone (tan, gold, beige).This will make your legs look longer. Also, if you can find it a fuller short would be nice, with soft fabric that flows like a skirt. 

Skirts : All of your skirts should fall above just above your knee. Choose skirts with an A-line cut to balance your curves and to accentuate your hourglass shape.

A-line skirts & dresses: Yes you can wear them! Everyday if you want, lol. They’re great for balancing out your bust and making the most of your sexy frame. Plus, they’re sooo comfy!

Tucking Pants Into Boots:Since Spring is still a few months away for us Canadians, we will still find this trend handy. Choose a taller boot and slim fitting jeans or leggings.

Shirt Length: For your body type embrace Spring’s trend of tucking in shirts into skirts and pants and finish the look with a great belt.

Big Jewelry: Go for 1 statement piece, like amazing earrings or a longer necklace. If you choose the earrings no necklace, if you choose the necklace small earrings. My rule is: earrings always. You could also try a nice chunky bangle.

Neckline: A V-Neck is elongating, but make sure it’s not too busty on you. If so, try a cami underneath.

Handbag: Big enough to be functional, small enough to see you. When possible try any size clutch, they’re great for petites because they don’t cut off your lines with straps.

Flat Shoe + Cuffs: Don’t do these two together. Cuffs aren’t petite friendly, but if you love them you need heels.

Boots + Capris: Again, no. This look is awful even on non petites.

Dresses: Your new best friend! Buy wrap dresses, A-line dresses and any other style that comes in at your natural waist. When in doubt add a belt around the smallest part of your waist. I know you’re a mom and trust me, wearing a dress is easier and more comfortable. It’s sloppy to chic in one second. If you’re looking for casual dresses for the park and playdates try C & C California.

Trends: This season’s trend are petite friendly. Stay away from anything that doesn’t have shape.

Jeans: Choose a wide leg with heels or a slight boot cut with a lower heel or flats.