The life of a short woman is not always easy. Whether it’s getting noticed when waiting in line, reaching for something on the top shelf, or dealing with a constant barrage of images of tall models on runways, it can feel like life has handed you the short end of the stick in the genetic lottery.
The good news is that stature is all about what you make of it. Think of it as just a number. It’s a measurement, which does not at all express the complexity of who you are, the nuances of your physical appearance, or what you are capable of.
With that in mind, no matter our size or shape, we should all be dressing to fit our body type so that we can accentuate our best features.
Let’s take a look at how the shorter female can dress to accommodate their body size.
Colour coordinate
Knowing how colours work to create optical illusions of length or width is crucial for appearing in a way that gives you confidence. For shorter women, one trick to appear taller is to pair the colour of your shoes with matching coloured bottoms. Whether it’s black tights with black high heels, or beige shoes with nothing covering the legs, this helps create an image of a longer line, making you look taller than you actually are.
Shorten long items
If you’re wearing jeans that cover your ankles and wrinkle at the bottom, or a long-sleeved shirt that might begin to swallow your wrists, you can create greater contrast – and again, the illusion of length – by simply cuffing or rolling these items up. A quick hem at the bottom of your pants will do the trick on a long-term basis, while rolling up your sleeves is a simple fix to bring greater definition to your body shape.
Don’t overlook the kids’ section
While you may think it’s not ideal to be shopping in the children’s section of the store, think about these important facts: the clothes there might possibly fit you better and so, help you look your best, plus you’ll save a tonne of money by shopping there. Keep in mind that there are also some top designers making great pieces of clothing for kids. This is as true for pants as it is for shoes. Be on the lookout – and keep an open mind.
Get junior hangers
This may seem like an odd pro-tip, but investing in non-standard hangers that are not too wide will keep the shoulders of your jackets and shirts in better shape and avoid making long-term bumps in the shoulder padding area.
Know your brands
Some brands are friendlier to the petite female body shape than others. Among the catalogues you should be exploring are Topshop, ASOS, Target Petites, and Ann Taylor Loft. For bras, the aptly named Little Bra Company is a safe bet, while Pretty Small carries shoes and accessories for the small statured woman.
Wear it with confidence
No matter what you do, no matter how you decide to dress yourself, go forth proudly, and with gusto. The number one quality that should define your look is how it makes you feel, and that should be full of confidence because you are expressing yourself uniquely and proudly. Keep that in mind and you’ll do just fine.
Make alterations
Making simple alterations can help when it seems impossible to find the right size. Simple fixes will ensure that everything from sleeves, to hems, to waists are more form-fitting – a worthwhile investment that will pay dividends in the long run.
