I'm a Petite Style Expert—These 6 Pieces Are My Capsule Wardrobe Non-Negotiables

As all readers under 5'4" will know, shopping can be a frustrating process and styling tips for petite women are often few and far between.

Yes, there are more size ranges available on the market now than there ever has been before. But if you are under average height, it's likely that you've still had to contend with trailing hems and excessively long sleeves, making the process of building a capsule wardrobe that much harder.

When there are practical shopping hacks targeted to those with shorter heights, it's often recommended to buy the clothes you love and to employ the services of a tailor. This cost can stack up over time, and it's mildly annoying constantly getting things adjusted when we just want to visualise the final look from the comfort of a dressing room.

So, with this in mind, we started thinking about the easy styling shortcuts that can save you time (and money) just by taking dressing for your proportions into account.

As a fashion editor who often struggles with finding clothes that fit my in-between-size and curvy frame, I still believe that anyone can wear the pieces that they want (there are no style rules here!). All it takes is a couple of clever tweaks.

That being said, at 5'6", I'm not best placed to share petite style tips. But one person who is, however, is a style savant with a lot of experience in making designer and high street buys work harder for her, fashion blogger Shloka Narang Sensarma.

As an expert in petite fashion, you'll find Shloka in everything from maxi dresses to mini co-ords, without having to compromise her style. So, who better to ask for tips on how to build an effortlessly elegant capsule wardrobe for those 5'4" and under? If you are a petite shopper looking for easy hacks to transform your outfits now and forever, keep scrolling for Shloka's tips on maximising the pieces you already own. You won't regret it.

6 Styling Tips for Petite Women to Consider

1. Invest in a Pair of High-Waisted Jeans

Style Notes: While the runways focus on the denim wars between ultra-baggy jeans, classic straight-leg and even ultra skinny jeans, petite shoppers should think about the waistband rather than the hemline to get proportions right advises Shloka. Loose and wide-leg jeans look great on everybody, but anything that dips below the belly button can cause a shortening effect, swamping a petite frame. "Having the right pair of jeans is essential, especially when the fit and length are just right!" says Shloka. "I always prefer high-waisted pairs as they help to elongate my silhouette."

Shop High Waisted Jeans:

2. Well-Tailored Blazers are a Gamechanger

Style Notes: Oversized blazer outfits might be everywhere right now, but the long sleeves and shoulder pads can overwhelm petite proportions. Combat excessive amounts of fabric by opting for fitted blazers, suggests Shloka. An hourglass shape can be just as arresting for power dressers who want to make an impact. "I love to highlight my waist, and when I’m wearing something structured like a blazer, I look for styles that are cinched at the waist. Not only does it elevate the look, but also flatters my shape!" (Expert tip: Purchase a belt to quickly transform any existing jacket into a tapered shape, but more on that below!)

Shop Tailored Blazers:

3. Don't Default to Heels

Style Notes: If we've noticed any major trend happening over the last two years, it is undoubtedly the phasing out of the platform heel. Stilettos and chunky heels dominated shoe trends for decades before Miu Miu and Prada heralded the welcome return of the chic kitten heel. Editors and influencers alike agree, comfort must be the number one priority. Not a big fan of demi-heels? Don't worry, ballet flats are now the dressy shoe of choice for stylish women on the go. "I used to rely on heels a lot but as a new mom, flats are my new go-to!" adds Shloka. "I’ve learnt that the right style of flat shoes can still have the same effect on your look, and for me, ballet flats always look polished. "

Shop Ballet Flats:

4. Never Underestimate the Power of a Good Belt

Style Notes: Similar to a cinched blazer, having a versatile belt in your arsenal can transform a myriad of different looks. Trousers a little long? Hold them around the waist with a belt. Dress a little big? Nip in the waist with a belt. Want to break up head-to-toe colour blocking? A belt will add a point of interest. There's nothing this little wonder can't do, and often it's the small difference between simply wearing and styling an outfit. "A good belt is a petite girls best friend," reminds Shloka. "I have a small collection in different colours and finishes for different vibes."

Shop Belts:

5. Classic Accessories Complete the Look

Style Notes: If you've ever tried on a pair of oversized sunglasses and found the frames comically large, this is for you. Chic frames are the icing on top of the cake (but not if they're sliding down your face), and petite shoppers can struggle with the right size balance. "Finding the right pair of sunglasses when you’re petite is much more challenging than it sounds!" says Shloka. Instead of trend-chasing, opt for a timeless classic that never goes out of style: the universally oval. "My go-to pair are from Le Specs and are called Outta Love, they're the perfect oval frame. I have them in three different colours because they work so well with everything!"

Shop Sunglasses:

6. Colour Blocking Can Be Your Friend

Style Notes: Deceptively, adding an element of colour to a monochromatic is one styling tip that petite women can always rely on. If wearing a black blazer and high-waisted jeans, throw a vibrant cashmere jumper over your shoulders to accentuate your torso. If wearing tailored trousers, a contrasting knit sweater can lengthen your physique and give more stature, thanks to the commanding hue. These simple tricks make all the difference.

Shop Sweaters: