Shopping for petite clothing comes with its own challenges, but there are certain styles that can be quite flattering on your figure. If you’re ready to breathe new life into your wardrobe this winter, Shop TODAY consulted several fashion pros to get their expertise on figure-flattering items to look for (and avoid). Plus, we’ve found a few essential pieces to get you started!
Tiny tops for winter
- What to look for: Lightweight sweaters that can be tucked in; quarter sleeves and styles that can be rolled up; low necklines; off-the-shoulder styles
- Why they work for small change: “Styling can be challenging, especially when it comes to sweaters. We recommend using a lightweight or medium-weight sweater with a soft, tight knit,” said Isabella Sun, founder and CEO of Short Story, a personal styling service for petite women. . “Avoid oversized sweaters or sweaters with large cable knits. Tuck your sweater in the front into denim or pants to accentuate your shape and elongate your torso.”
INTEMPO long sleeve top
“Whatever the weather, an off-the-shoulder neckline can work so well. For the warmer months, consider an off-the-shoulder dress and… why not cozy up in an off-the-shoulder knit sweater?” John McCormack, head of global fashion trends at Primark, said.
Available in four shades including an alluring teal, this ribbed top looks like your favorite sweater but feels as light as your favorite blouse. Even the price is pretty hard to resist!
Regards, Jules Ottoman Long Sleeve Sweater
“When shopping or editing clothes, look for tops that don’t come below your hip bone, as this will instantly make your legs look longer,” suggested McCormack.
Something like this waist jumper is perfect for petite figures as it’s easy to tuck into trousers or skirts and looks just as good when worn over bottoms. We especially love the pretty pastel shade!
Vineyard Vines Striped Sankaty Boatneck Simple T-Shirt
A classic boat neck t-shirt will never go out of style and is a versatile wardrobe essential. This one is extra special with its UPF 30+ sun protection, making it perfect for all seasons, and it has bracelet length sleeves that are great for the petite.
Magic long sleeve linen top
“Sleeve length is quite important when considering your proportions and to avoid the outfit looking bad,” said McCormack. “Quarter sleeves or regular lengths neatly rolled back will elongate your arms and give the illusion of making you look taller.”
This sunny linen top with button-up sleeves is a great choice for petite figures. A pleated waist adds extra visual appeal.
Tiny pants for winter
- What to look for: High-waisted pants and dark underwear
- Why they work for small change: “High-waisted trousers should be one of your style staples. Whether it’s great denim jeans or tailored suit trousers, this style gives the instant illusion that the waist is higher than it actually is,” said McCormack.
Old Navy High-Waisted Wow Super-Skinny Jeans
At just $30, these jeans are an affordable addition to your wardrobe, but they certainly don’t skimp on quality. The high-waisted design is universally flattering and with built-in stretch fit, you can easily go through the day without restriction.
INC International Concepts Petite High-Waisted Ponté-Knit Curve Creator Pants
“Darker shades come in with the season and give petite frames a big advantage. Choose a longer inseam with a straight or flared silhouette paired with booties to create a streamlined look,” said Sun.
Thanks to the elastic knit, these trousers are a fashion discovery that also emphasizes comfort. We wore them on a date with heels and a sheer blouse or in the office with booties and a chambray top.
NYDJ Barbara Bootcut Jeans in Petite
Not a fan of skinny styles? Bootcut jeans are a great alternative. These are made with a sleek slimming panel that helps flatter your shape and elongates your legs with a bootcut design. So basically it’s a win-win!
Spanx Petite Faux Leather Leggings
Whether you’re an XS or a 3X, these petite leggings are sized to fit your unique figure. The faux leather bestseller provides lifting, compression and shaping. The high waist leggings are also made without a center front seam to help you avoid the dreaded camel toe look.
Tiny dresses and overalls for winter
- What to look for: Mini dresses and jumpsuits with a belt
- Why they work for small change: “Mini dresses give you the illusion of mile-long legs. Maximize the illusion by pairing your mini dress with black opaque tights and chunky platform heels,” said Chloe Baffert.
Loft Petite Shimmer Sweater dress with animal print
“Choose a mini sweater dress with a hem just above the knee to accentuate your legs and balance your proportions,” said Sun. “Style it with tall leather boots and layer on a double-breasted plaid boyfriend blazer to complete your look.”
We can’t decide what we love more about this soft sweater dress: the cheeky leopard print or the added bit of sparkle. Fortunately, we don’t have to choose!
Old Navy Collarless Utility Jumpsuit
Jumpsuits can be intimidating when you’re petite, but they can actually help elongate your body when you find the right fit.
“If the goal is to stretch your body, an all-in-one jumpsuit can be a great must-have! Take the time to try it on and find the perfect fit for your body. Complete with a belt that cinches and breaks up the panel of material, McCormack said.
Whether you rock this neutral number with heels and a blazer for the office or with ballet flats and statement jewelry for a date night, you can’t go wrong. We love everything about it: from the scoop neckline and hidden zip design to the elastic drawstring waist and tons of pockets.
Draper James Lee Ann dress
Don’t want to give up floral prints just because the weather is a little cooler? You don’t have to! This beautiful shade of blue is winter ready and the knee length dress is nice too. We’re digging the ruffled sleeves, tiered skirt, and soft, stretchy knit. The babydoll silhouette is also universally flattering!
White House Black Market Petite Satin Smocked Waist Blouson
Mini dresses can look a little out of place on a taller frame, but petites can rock them without skipping a beat. This gorgeous green dress has a versatile fitted waist and satin material that can be dressed up for a special event or worn for a day at the office.
Tiny jackets for winter
- What to look for: Cropped and long wrist styles
- Why they work for small change: “Cropped jackets are a great way to elongate your legs and heighten your frame. The classic biker style in black leather is a surefire wardrobe hero to take you through the seasons,” said McCormack.
Athleta Hanover hybrid jacket
“The key is to find a cropped hem that shows off your waist. I like to pair this boxy silhouette with more tailored bottoms, like vintage-inspired jeans, for balance, and finish off the look with ultra-pointy booties for a little height.” Baffert said.
With its cropped length and semi-fitted silhouette, this velvet jacket from Athleta is perfect for a petite figure. It’s made from recycled insulation, making it a sustainable choice, and has Theromolite fibers to help repel winter weather. Plus, it’s available in petite sizes!
Truth + Style Jersey Cropped Knit Jacket
“Balance of proportions is key for a petite dresser. Cropped and slightly boxy jackets allow you to play the oversized menswear-inspired trend without sacrificing a flattering silhouette,” said Baffert.
Not a fan of denim or moto jackets? Great for work and the weekend, this dressier style has an open front that allows you to display your favorite blouses.
Lands’ End petite zip-up fleece pullover
Available in petite, regular and tall, this quarter-zip pullover comes in a range of sizes to help you find the perfect fit. It is available in six colors and is made of super soft, anti-static material.
Venus faux leather lace-up jacket
“A good moto jacket can easily give you structure without adding bulk,” Sun said. “One thing to watch out for is the length of the sleeve. Definitely go for one that’s just a touch longer than your wrist, but doesn’t engulf your entire arm. Moto jackets are a great way to add some texture to your look. ” while still looking shiny.”
This sleek faux leather style comes in two shades – black and rose gold – and features a cropped cut with lace-up detailing for a nice edge. The staple of a hard worker’s wardrobe can be combined equally well with a mini dress or leggings and a sweater. Plus, it’s also available in sizes XS-3X.