During my recent fashion tour, I had the opportunity to shop with a petite client, which inspired me to share insights on the unique challenges petite women face when finding the right clothes. Petite clothing, designed for women 162 cm (5’4″) and under, encompasses a wide range of sizes from extra-small to plus-size. These garments typically feature shorter sleeves, hemlines, inseams, and rises for a better fit.

Many of my female clients often struggle with finding small-sized clothes that suit their body type, particularly when it comes to jeans and trousers for wider hips. Thankfully, an increasing number of stores now cater to petite sizes, indicated by a “P” label, offering garments that are both smaller and proportionately fitted.

For petite women, the key is discovering the perfect fit. Jeans, especially high-rise denim, are a fantastic choice as they accentuate the waist, providing definition and balance to your overall look.

On our tour, we stopped by a Mango store in Madrid where we successfully found an XS size. I styled my client in high-rise jeans paired with a chic tweed cardigan and elegant pointy-toe flats, showcasing how petite sizes can be both fashionable and flattering.

MANGO

As a second option, I decided to keep the bottom but add some layers on the top. We found an XS t-shirt and combined it with a fitted vest.

MANGO

Layering is an excellent technique for styling petite-size outfits, but it’s crucial to avoid overwhelming your frame. For those with a petite stature, it’s best to steer clear of overly long coats, oversized garments, and jeans or trousers that may visually shorten the legs.

In terms of accessories, careful selection can make a big difference. We chose small handbags in two classic colours – black and pink – to complement the outfit without dominating the petite frame. To add a touch of sophistication, we incorporated a tweed cardigan embellished with gold buttons and paired it with flats featuring eye-catching gold buckles. These details brought an extra layer of glamour to the ensemble without overpowering the overall look.

For those on the hunt for perfect petite clothing options, here’s a list of brands worth exploring: ASOS:, Top Shop, Reformation, Paige Denim, Anthropologie, River Island, Oasis, New Look, Friday, Reve the Label.

Each of these brands brings something unique to the table, ensuring that you find the perfect fit and style to suit your petite needs.

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