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Okay, so I’m 5’7″—not exactly short. And then there’s my friend, who’s 4’9″. Dainty, adorable, and an absolute menace when I dare to wear heels around her! (Her glare could turn me to stone.)
Now, obviously, I can’t magically make her taller (trust me, I’d do it if I could), but I did share a few styling tricks to help her look taller and a little more streamlined. And this came from her directly, “Wait—THAT’s all it takes?!” I like to assume she was low-key crying while saying this, lol.
But yeah, tiny adjustments can make a huge difference. And my friend is living proof that YOU can look taller as well if you just dress right.
So, here’s everything you need to wear if you’re short!
1. Choose Cropped or Tucked-in Tops (And Avoid Oversized Ones)
No one loves a comfy oversized hoodie more than me, but oversized or boxy tops can drown your frame and make you appear smaller.
Instead, go for cropped tops that hit right at your waist or tuck your shirts into high-waisted bottoms—they draw attention to your waist and give your outfit some structure.
Think fitted basics like cropped tanks or tied shirts for an effortlessly stylish look!
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2. V-Necklines for the Win
V-necks are your secret weapon! These necklines create the illusion of a longer neck and draw the eye vertically, adding a bit of extra height (visually, at least).
Whether it’s a V-neck sweater, dress, or top, this style is a no-brainer for anyone who wants to elongate their frame without breaking a sweat. Oh, and if you’re layering necklaces with this, go for a long one to enhance that vertical effect!
3. Monochromatic Colours (Especially Darker Tones)
When your outfit flows from top to bottom in the same colour palette, it creates a sleek, uninterrupted look. Think all-black, navy, or neutral-toned outfits—they give serious elongated vibes! Bonus points if you wear darker shades, as they naturally slim and lengthen.
Try pairing a black turtleneck with matching black pants or playing with earthy tones like tan or olive for a chic, put-together outfit.
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4. High-Waisted Everything
Whether it’s skirts, shorts, or pants, high-waisted pieces are a petite girl’s dream. They cinch your waist and make your legs appear longer, meaning instant height (without squeezing into stilettos).
Pair high-waisted jeans with a tucked-in blouse or tailored shorts with a cute crop top. You can’t go wrong with staples like high-rise skinny jeans or pencil skirts for a timeless silhouette.
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5. Straight-Leg and Slim-Fit Pants
When it comes to pants, straight-leg and slim-fit styles are where it’s at. They create clean lines that don’t overwhelm your figure.
Wide-leg pants can work too—but only if they’re high-waisted and paired with heels to balance the extra fabric!
Need inspiration? Try high-rise slim jeans or tailored trousers for a polished, leg-lengthening effect.
6. Opt for Shorter Hemlines
Show off those legs with shorter hemlines! Mini skirts, shorts, and dresses that hit mid-thigh flatter petite frames while adding a playful vibe to your style.
Prefer midi skirts? Go for options that feature a slit—it breaks up the fabric and keeps the look from overwhelming your body. Pair with heeled boots or sleek pumps for that extra lift (literally).
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7. Go for A-line or Wrap Dresses
Want a dress that flatters your shape and gives the illusion of longer legs? A-line and wrap dresses are the way to go. They cinch at the waist and flow outward, creating a streamlined look that adds height.
Bonus points for dresses that end mid-thigh or have asymmetrical hemlines—they show off your legs and make you appear taller. Flirty and functional? Yes, please!
8. Long Dresses with Fitted Waists and Vertical Details
Think long, flowy dresses are a no-go for petite builds? Think again! Opt for maxi dresses that have a fitted waist and vertical patterns or details, like stripes or buttons that run down the length of the outfit.
These elements draw the eye upward, elongating your silhouette. Plus, who doesn’t love that dramatic moment when you step out in a gorgeous maxi that seems to float around you?
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9. Fitted, Cropped Blazers
Blazers aren’t just for the office—they’re your secret weapon for defining your waist and showing off your proportions. Look for cropped, fitted styles that won’t overwhelm your petite frame. Wear one over a dress or a high-waisted pant, and suddenly, you’re all legs!
10. Shorter Coats and Cardigans
When it comes to outerwear, less is more—literally! Shorter jackets, coats, and cardigans help maintain your proportions and prevent your outfit from looking bulky.
Try pairing a cropped coat with a high-waisted skirt or pants to further elongate your figure. Trust me, long coats that swallow you up? Not your friend.
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11. Nude Heels or Pointed-Toe Shoes
Shoes are a game-changer! Nude heels that match your skin tone effortlessly lengthen your legs. And if you’re a fan of pointed-toe shoes, know that they naturally make your legs look longer and more elegant.
Just avoid chunky styles or ankle straps—they tend to cut off the visual line of your legs.
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12. Platform Shoes or Heeled Boots
Want a little extra height without sacrificing comfort? Platform shoes and heeled boots are a dream come true. Go for options with a low vamp (the part of your shoe that covers your toes), as they leave more of your foot visible and make your legs look longer.
13. Choose Smaller Accessories
Oversized bags and chunky jewelry are not your best friend if you’re on the shorter side. Why? They can overwhelm your frame and make you look even more petite.
Instead, go for smaller crossbody bags instead of tote bags, dainty necklaces, and minimalist earrings instead of chunky jewelry. Proportional accessories make your entire outfit look more cohesive and balanced.
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14. Use Belts Strategically
Belts are game-changing, but not all belts are created equal. For petite ladies, thinner belts work wonders! They not only define your waist but also keep your proportions in check without splitting your outfit into awkward halves.
Cinch high-waisted pants or dresses with a slim belt to create that perfect hourglass illusion.
15. Vertical Stripes and Avoid Horizontal Patterns
Stripes are like your secret weapon—just make sure they’re heading north to south. Vertical stripes create the illusion of height, making you appear taller. On the flip side, chunky prints or horizontal patterns can make you seem shorter than you are. Swap that wide-horizontal-striped shirt for a chic pinstriped dress, and thank me later!
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16. Light Fabrics That Flow
Say goodbye to stiff, heavy fabrics that bulk you up. Instead, welcome breezy, lightweight fabrics that flow effortlessly. Think chiffon, silk, or light cotton. These materials not only look polished but also add that dreamy, ethereal vibe that elongates your silhouette.
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17. Go for a High Bun or Ponytail
Hair matters more than you realize! Wearing your hair in a high bun or ponytail adds height to your overall look (and bonus—it shows off your gorgeous neckline). Keep it sleek for a chic vibe or go messy for a casual look. Either way, you’ll be walking taller!
18. Focus on Vertical Makeup Lines
Yes, even makeup can help! Winged eyeliner or elongated brows can visually “lift” your face, giving it a taller and more contoured appearance. Focus on creating harmonious vertical lines with your makeup to subtly boost your height game. Pro tip? A bold cat-eye wing seals the deal!
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