As a 4'11" fashion editor, I’d like to think I know a thing or two about petite dressing.
From styling tips to give the illusion of extra inches to how to translate the trends for a petite frame, I’m always looking for ways to make getting dressed just that little bit easier for those of us with shorter proportions. Over the years, I’ve discovered that having a few classic petite outfit formulas (and an army of chic petite influencers to look to for inspo) is a great way to do just that, as well as save myself added stress on those "I don’t know what to wear" mornings.
You see, by drawing from a petite-friendly capsule wardrobe of elevated staples, I know I always have an outfit on hand that feels chic and considered and also works (and most importantly, fits) for my petite proportions. If you’re wondering what these formulas are, don’t worry. I’m not one to gatekeep, so I’ve pulled together eight of my favourite classic outfit combinations to serve as inspiration.
Whether you’re looking for timeless petite workwear or a classic look to wear every day, these 'fits will have you covered. Keep scrolling to see them for yourself.
8 CLASSIC PETITE OUTFIT IDEAS CHOSEN BY A FASHION EDITOR:
1. Denim Coord + Sandals
Style Notes: If you need proof that great denim should be a staple in every petite wardrobe, see this look worn by Nina Caine. Alongside her cinched in denim top, which highlights her waist and offers a sculpted look, she’s also opted for a single colour palette—another great style hack for petite frames as it creates one continuous line from top to bottom, giving the illusion of added height.
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So incredibly chic.
Such a fantastic pair of jeans.
A woven bag will work from spring through to summer.
The braided detail on these sandals takes them to the next level.
2. Blazer + Maxi Dress
Style Notes: You may think maxi lengths would work against petite frames, however, this look proves that they can actually work in your favour, elongating and balancing shorter proportions. When it comes to the ideal dress length, opt for a style that grazes the floor to draw the eye downwards, whilst a blazer will balance the look and give a more grown-up feel. Top tip: a non-petite midi dress will double as a maxi for shorter heights.
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Taupe makes a chic alternative to a classic black blazer.
Ghost's silk dresses are simply beautiful.
You'll get so much wear out of DeMellier's crossbody bag.
Flatform sandals will give extra height.
3. Button-Down Shirt + High-Waisted Jeans
Style Notes: High-waisted trousers and jeans are a great choice for petites as they give the illusion of longer legs by elongating the bottom half. For a classic look, pair a slim, straight-leg style with a staple white shirt and slingbacks or heeled boots. Then finish with a belt, like Lydia Tsegay has above, to further accentuate the high-waisted effect.
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Puff sleeves elevate this classic white shirt.
We've tested these and can confirm they work perfectly for petites.
Accentuate the high-waisted detail with a contrasting belt.
Block heels offer height without compromising on comfort.
4. Trench Coat + Shirt + Capris
Style Notes: Too warm for trousers but not quite short weather either? You need a pair of capri pants. These are a great choice for petite pins as they sit close to the leg ensuring they don't swamp shorter proportions while the calf length crop will make legs appear longer. Pair with a trench coat and longline shirt to balance out their more fitted shape.
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Sezane's trench comes in sizes 4-20.
Add a pop of colour with this pastel-blue striped shirt.
These capris come in petite length for a great fit.
Lean into the dressed-down feel with classic loafers.
5. Trouser Suit + Heeled Sandals
Style Notes: Standing at 4'11'', one thing I struggle with is regularly getting mistaken for being much younger than my 33 years (believe me; it’s both a blessing and a curse). To combat this, I often opt for classic pieces that lean more mature, like a chic trouser suit. Add heeled sandals, as Monikh Dale has above, or wear trainers on more relaxed days.
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Reiss is my go-to for petite tailoring, and this blazer proves why.
Pair with the matching trousers for a coordinated look.
A simple black clutch will work hard in your wardrobe forever.
Simple yet so stylish.
6. Cropped T-shirt + Midi Skirt
Style Notes: Here, Taffy gives a lesson on how to expertly play with the proportions of a look to make the most of a petite frame. First up, her midi skirt sits high on her waist to give the illusion of longer legs while the addition of a cropped t-shirt further accentuates this. Finally, by finishing the look with a colour pop flip flops, she draws the eye downwards creating a lengthening effect and adding a sense of fun to the overall look.
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The perfect elevated basic.
M&S' skirt comes in three length options.
The summer Hope is here!
At under £10, these are a real steal.
7. Shirt + Wide-Leg Jeans
Style Notes: Victoria Beckham swears by this particular outfit combination, and at 5"4', she’s the ideal person to look to for petite dressing inspiration. The key to this look is to ensure your jeans graze the floor for maximum leg-lengthening, so it’s often worth shopping from the petite section for a long, wide-leg silhouette, or visiting a tailor to achieve the perfect fit.
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Proof that simple shapes are always in style.
These light-wash jeans look much more expensive than they are.
8. Knitted Dress + Pointed-Toe Flats
Style Notes: Spring may have arrived but it can still be chilly so on those days you need a knitted dress. As a petite woman, you’ve probably heard that wearing vertical stripes will make you appear taller. Well, a ribbed or pleated knitted dress can work similarly, providing a lengthening effect without the need for statement prints. Keep things simple by finishing with a sleek pair of court heels, or, if heels aren’t your style, why not try pointed-toe flats?
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The subtle ribbed detailing makes this dress feel incredibly elegant.
Be prepared for sunny days.
A structured tote gives a polished finish.
Wear these slingbacks through spring and summer.
