Petite Style Rules to Break

There are a few style trends us ladies 5″3′ and under are told to stay away from because of our heigh. If you’ve read Dollface Diaries for a while you know I’m always trying to find ways to break any kind of fashion rules (see also: winter whites). I think any rules are meant to be broken. Fashion is so much fun because it’s a way to express yourself and like art what’s cool or stylish is always up for interpretation. As petite ladies we’re always told what we can and can’t wear because people see our height as a limitation and these particular trends are especially tricky but if you keep a couple of things in mind you can rock these trends and turn heads.

Big Prints


Big prints are often overpowering on a petite frame, but it isn’t just us little ladies that can be overwhelmed by a large flashy print so this is a trend tip for every shape and size. But instead of just giving up on your love for prints just try them on and see how you feel. It’s all about trial and error. Another way to still wear those prints break them up with other pieces, a blazer over a loud dress or wearing the print in a skirt and breaking it up with a solid top.

Midi Skirts


Oh the midi skirt, I think we all saw this one coming on this list. Length is so important for the midi trend when you’re under 5″3′. the hem of the skirt should sit just below the knee to around the top of the calf where your legs get thinner. I also think a more form-fitting midi skirt and of course keeping the waist high gives your legs the illusion of a little more length.

Shoes with Ankle Straps


It’s said that shoes with ankle straps can make you look stumpy and cuts off the lines you are trying to create to elongate your legs. Opt for a thinner strap that will reveal more skin and keep the lines long.

Oversized Clothes


Like oversized prints wearing oversized pieces or “boyfriend” style clothes can often time just look like you’re really wearing your boyfriend’s clothes on a tiny frame. It can look sloppy and unkempt. But to master this trend as a petite gal the golden rule is balance. If you’re wearing a tighter top with an oversized bottom, a skinny jean with a looser top. Take control of volume with a belt. Also, over the last few years, I’ve learned that tailoring to fit your body type is so important. You can keep that oversized or “made for the boys” style while still making it made for you.

Wide Leg Trousers


Just like the oversized trend, wide leg trousers can be tricky to not be taken over by your trousers. I’ll say this over and over and over again, high waisted cut will always be the number one way to elongate any figure. Another simple way to make sure your wide leg trousers don’t cut you short is to pair them with some heels. I know not all of us are comfortable or enjoy wearing heels but it is a great way to keep your lines long.

So the moral of the story is to not listen to the “fashion rules” be bold, and try new things. Fashion should be fun, not restricting. What trends are you trying this spring?

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