I Just Tried on the Best Petite Autumn Buys—Here's What's Actually Worth It

Amongst the women in my family, we’ve always believed in the power of the change-room boogie. You know, the inadvertent reaction you have when trying on clothes at a store and finally finding a piece that fits *just* right, inevitably leading to a quick shimmy in front of the change-room mirror to whatever pop song is playing over the loudspeaker.

Okay, maybe it’s just us? But I’m sure everyone can relate to the exciting feeling of putting on an item of clothing that instantly fits like a glove. As a petite woman, I have to say it’s a rarity. There's usually a skirt hem dragging on the floor or a trouser leg that requires rolling up whenever I'm trying on clothes. That is why this month, I set out to find some petite-specific items that warrant a change-room boogie (or in my case, an at-home happy dance), and below, you’ll find 10 pieces that I think deserve your attention. These items have been created specifically with women 5’4” and under in mind. And in terms of perfect proportions, you can definitely tell the difference. 

If you’re on the lookout for a new dress, timeless skirt or trendy pair jeans, keep scrolling for 10 petite-specific items I am loving right now.

Reformation Petites Bea Skirt

Style Notes: Reformation is easily one of my favourite places to shop as a petite woman. The brand has a wide range of options and creates the kind of contemporary, trend-led designs I actually want to wear. This skirt is a great example of that. The style is classic, but the pattern is modern, and obviously, the length sits exactly where you want it to. It’s the kind of item you’ll wear again and again and again.

Topshop Petite Satin Mini Tea Dress

Style Notes: This fit-and-flare dress was probably my favourite of the bunch. This is a size 4 and fits me absolutely perfectly. Call me Goldilocks because everything about this was just right.

ASOS Design Petite Straight-Leg Daisy Print Jean

Style Notes: I’ve never felt more in touch with Gen Z than when I put these trousers on. The retro pattern is very on-trend right now, and the length was perfect. I usually prefer a slightly higher rise on my jeans, but if you’re into a low waist, these are for you! If I were the kind of person who attended festivals, these are the trousers I’d buy for the occasion.

Next Black Linen Dress

Style Notes: In my last petite try-on, I spoke about how I often avoid maxi dresses altogether, as they inevitably just end up dragging on the floor. Next’s petite range, however, may have just changed my tune, as the brand’s maxi dresses seem to have the perfect length. I love the pleating details on this dress, it felt like a classic that will stay in your wardrobe for years.

Next Gingham Midi Skirt

Style Notes: I was instantly drawn to the print of this skirt, as I love the look of gingham and its summer-to-autumn versatility. To be completely honest, this skirt was a little longer than I would have liked, as it felt more maxi than midi on me. At 5’1”, I am still on the shorter side of the petite spectrum, so if you’re taller, this might be the perfect fit. 

ASOS Design Petite Satin Midi Skirt

Style Notes: As one of the retailers with the biggest petite collection, ASOS often gets it right when it comes to smaller sizes. At times, though, I struggle to find wardrobe basics available in the brand's extended sizes, which is why this skirt was a great find. It’s plain, simple and timeless and fits exactly as it should.

Next Bleached Cropped Straight Jeans

Style Notes: It's rare to find cropped jeans that are actually cropped on me, but these were the perfect above-ankle length. I really liked the fit of this pair from Next. The straight leg and precise crop felt very flattering. 

Next Orange Check Dress

Style Notes: Fun, flattering and a bright shade to boot! What’s not to love about this cute minidress? It’s a yes from me.

Alyda Gigi Dress

Style Notes: The first thing I noticed about this dress was how great the quality was. It’s made from a linen/cotton blend and is fully lined. You can just tell real craftsmanship has gone into creating this piece. The dress was slightly too wide for me around the hips (I definitely don’t have an hourglass figure), but the length was just perfect! It would be a great addition to any wardrobe, just throw a blazer over the top in the cooler months.

Alyda Lila Skirt

Style Notes: I loved the silky feel and perfectly fitted bias cut of this skirt, not to mention the length and the pistachio-green colour, which is ideal for trans-seasonal dressing. I tried a size 6, which felt a little roomy on me, but if a size 4 were available, I would be first in line for this skirt.

Next up, the biggest autumn 2021 trends you need to know.