Glam but first coffeeThe Petite and curvy style challenge- are you ready? Many style guides focus on either Petites or curvy women- but not both. However, as a 4’11 (150cm) tall or short woman, who has curves (I wear size M usually), I want to share more style tips and finds for short and curvy women. Because skinny Petite women can easily style and find clothing- but to find and style clothes as a Petite woman that wears M and L size is struggling.
Standard fashion advice doesn’t always work for those who are short and curvy, like bulky fabrics, wrong proportions and awkward fits. Therefore, I am here to share Petite and curvy style tips, how to dress a Petite and curvy body, and shopping finds for you to feel good in your body. This guide shares practical petite and curvy styling hacks to flatter your shape without sacrificing comfort or trends.
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Dressing as Petite and Curvy- what to keep in mind?
What to keep in mind when dressing as a Petite and curvy woman? Firstly, focus on proportion, balance and fit. Balance the details of your clothing, the design and fit. When wearing a loose top, style it with fitted bottoms and the other way around. Make sure not to wear too loose and oversized clothing, and the fit must be perfect for your frame and short proportions. Cinch in your waist and wear high-waisted bottoms for better proportions. Petite and curvy proportion hacks are the number one style tip for flattering outfits.
Secondly, Tailoring can be your best friend when needed. However, I always invite my petite followers to shop and check out petite brands first. Pay attention to inseam length and sleeve length when shopping online. However, when needed (I sometimes need it as well), find a good tailor you trust!
Last but not least, whenever possible, go for vertical lines and details that visually elongate your Petite frame. Vertical lines are like a hypnosis that makes you look longer. Therefore, avoid the horizontal lines for sure!
Petite and curvy fashion hacks
Tops that flatter Petite and curvy frames
What tops flatter Petite and curvy frames? Firstly, v-neck and wrap tops. V-neck design is the most flattering neckline for Petites that lengthens the neckline and also defines the curves. The wrap top hugs your curves perfectly.
Next is the cropped jackets and cardigans trick. The number one mistake a lot of Petites still make (including myself) is choosing awkwardly long cardigans and jackets that are not cropped but also not long enough to elongate. The cropped length highlights the waist without overwhelming.
Then, avoid shapeless oversized sweaters. Very important Petite fashion tip for the Fall and winter season. However, if you still want to wear one, style it with fitted leggings (turn it into a monochromatic outfit and style with an ankle bootie).
Dresses that work wonder
What are the best dresses for short, curvy women? Wrap and a-line dresses define the waist and skim curves for curvier short women. You will look snatched and give you hourglass lines.
However, my favourite dresses are fit and flare. Fit and flare dresses are flattering on a curvy body, while being comfortable, chic and feminine.
When it comes to the length, choose the mini dresses or midi dresses that stop just before the knee. The length is perfect to visually lengthen your legs and Petite frame.
Pants and Jeans for Petite Curvy women
When shopping for jeans, I always choose high-waist jeans. The high-rise jeans elongate legs and flatter the waist (especially as a curvy woman). Forget about the trending low-rise jeans as a Petite and curvy woman.
Straight leg or slightly flared jeans balance hips while also adding some height to your Petite frame. Nicely fitted straight-leg jeans look amazing on your curves and hips. Straight-leg jeans hug your body in the right places while being more comfortable than skinny jeans.
Last but not least, always choose tailored, fitted trousers rather than wide and baggy styles.
Skirts that flatter Petite and curvy shapes
Firstly, a-line skirts are my favourite skirts to wear. An a-line skirt highlights the waist and skims hips.
Secondly, a pencil skirt. Is there anything more flattering for curvy women than a pencil skirt? Pencil skirts elongate and flatter curves like no other. And you can choose the length that you want. However, the most flattering skirts for Petite curvy women include mini and midi skirts.
Avoid overly long and maxi skirts unless they are perfectly tailored for you.
Outerwear hacks for Petite and curvy women
One of the best outerwear hacks is wearing cropped or belted coats to define the waist. As you have noticed, the common Petite and curvy style hack includes waist definition. Avoid long and boxy coats that will hide your Petite frame and proportions.
However, structured blazers will instantly polish and shape your Petite and curvy body. In Fall and winter, outerwear plays a big role in your daily outfits and style.
Shoes and accessories that elevate
When shopping for shoes, buy only or mostly pointed-toe shoes to lengthen your legs. The right shoes can save any “not so Petite-friendly” outfit. Therefore, it is important to have the best petite-friendly shoes and accessories for you to look and feel the best.
Then, block heels and wedges for added weight, while at the same time adding comfort to your nights out and date night looks. As I walk a lot but still love to dress up, block heels and wedges have been my go-to during summer parties.
Avoid baggy and oversized bags. However, smaller and medium-sized bags are your best friends.
Quick styling hacks for Petite and curvy women
- Monochrome looks for height
- Use belts strategically to define your waist
- Choose vertical stripes and structured fabrics
- Tailor your clothing
Being Petite and curvy is about celebrating shape with smart styling. I want you to embrace your curves (not fat or overweight, but curves) and your short, feminine frame. Therefore, I hope these style hacks will help you feel confident, feminine, elegant and stylish. Please share your own styling struggles or wins as a Petite and curvy woman in the comments.
FAQ of Petite and curvy fashion
What should Petite and curvy women avoid wearing?
Avoid wearing baggy and loose clothing.
What are the best dresses for Petite and curvy women?
The best dresses for Petite and curvy women include mini dresses, midi dresses, a-line and wrapped dresses, as well as dresses with a slit.
How do you style jeans for Petite and curvy body shapes?
Wear and choose only high-rise jeans and style them with cropped or fitted tops and blouses. Lastly, add pointed-toe flats or booties.
