How to appear taller - Styling tips for petite form

When you are short in height you will usually have the following objectives with your dressing:

1. Appear longer, taller and leaner

2. Create a flattering silhouette (using the rule of thirds, so you don’t split your body in half)

3. Avoid a ‘boxy’ look which will only make you look wider rather than taller.

Most short women will want to appear taller and leaner.

- The first rule for petite women is to follow the 2/3rd – 1/3rd rule

It just means that you do not split your body into two halves with your dressing. Instead, you cover 2/3rd of your body with the bottoms and the remaining 1/3rd with your top.

Follow the 2/3rd – 1/3rd rule

- Stick to monochrome outfits or outfits with few color variations

Monochromatic looks will create a vertical image and instantly create the illusion of height.

- The dress is the ultimate flattering item for petite women

Wearing an outfit in one color can have an elongating effect. If you opt for a form-fitting slim silhouette then this will make you look even taller. A knee-length sheath dress is a great option for a petite frame as the tailored silhouette avoids unwanted bulk.

It is also good to know that maxi dresses actually can look very flattering to your petite frame. The rationale is different.

While short length creates space around your legs and draws attention above, long dresses and jumpsuit create a continuous column of color, which does an amazing job to lengthen your petite body frame. Wearing maxi dress the right way will actually make a short girl look taller.

- Wear v-line tops to further elongate your look

These open up the neckline and create additional vertical lines.

- Find your ideal skirt length

Opt for styles that fall just below or on top of the knee. A high-waisted skirt or pants would make your legs appear longer. Bonus tip: roll up too-long shirt cuffs to expose some extra wrist and forearm

Therefore, the shorter your skirts or dresses, the higher they will draw the eyes, thus making your legs look longer.

- Create vertical lines in your outfit

Create nice vertical lines with open straight jackets and cardigans or vertical detail.

- Embrace high waisted pants and skirts

High waist pants paired with heels work together to create a long vertical image. Worn with a short top, the outfit creates the illusion of height. They will make your legs appear longer. Wide pants with tucked-in tops work really well.

- Choose your jeans wisely

High-waisted, flare or jeans /denim with vertical detail

- Wear the Same Color Pants and Shoes

If you are wearing pants, matching the color of your shoes with your pants will make your legs appear longer

- Wear nude Heels With Your Petite Outfits

An obvious way to gain height is to wear a heel. Nude heels without ankle straps maximize your leg length.

Low vamp shoes are those which show a little bit of toe cleavage. The lower the vamp, the less covered your feet are thus the longer your legs look.

- Wear Accessories In Proportion

Choose accessories that are in proportion with your face and the rest of your body. Choose a handbag that fits your physique. In many cases, oversized handbags are not your best choice as they will make you look smaller.

- Your hair is too long

Show more skin – all over. An up-do or short cut draws attention to the neck. Too much hair is just plain distracting

For more such style tips curated by Celine Lamour, please visit our website My French Elegance

Courtesy Images: Various Sources