Here are some petite size characteristics:
You’re 5’ 3” and under.
Your inseam measures 27” or less.
Regular sleeve and strap lengths are often too long for you.
Pockets, shoulders or lengths of dresses or jumpsuits tend to fall in the wrong place.
Petite women come in all shapes and sizes, so knowing your body shape will help guide your wardrobe decisions. (Check out our guide to body shapes!)
If you’re 5’ 3” and under, the goal is to always improve your proportion by elongating your body.
If you’re not specifically shopping in the petite size section, expect that you’re going to need to alter your clothes. Make friends with a local tailor!
Use the Rule of Thirds -- The Rule of Thirds states that ⅓ to ⅔ ratio is the most aesthetically pleasing division of space to our eyes. Applying this to how you dress will instantly change the visual proportions of your body and make your body shape look figure flattering!
Choose the right neckline -- Choosing the right neckline can change your -- yup, you guessed it! -- proportion! Lower necklines are more flattering for shorter women. It helps to elongate the neck. Consider the sweetheart neckline of our best selling Grace and Gracie dress. It’s a feminie neckline that is generally flattering on shorter women, as well as helps create curves for rectangular shape body types.
Show off your shoulders! -- Cold-shoulder or off-the-shoulder styles are universally flattering and will work well on petite size women.
Pay attention to your sleeve length -- Sleeves are sometimes an overlooked detail, but are essential for choosing styles that fit your body. Avoid full sleeve lengths that are too long, causing you to look frumpy. Opt for sleeves a bit shorter: like elbow length or raglan sleeves. We recommend our best-selling Sasha Red Floral Knee Length Dress. Sasha’s raglan sleeves are perfect for all petite size women!
High waists are your best friend! -- High-waist dresses, high waisted jumpsuits or any high waisted bottoms are a must-have staple in every petite size woman’s wardrobe. They help support the Rule of Thirds and help create the illusion of a longer bottom half.
Your cart is currently empty.
Start Shopping
I am top heavy. I wear 12 Petite bottom and XL top. What size do you suggest? Should I stay with2 piece out fit?