You’re not the only one who has experienced pants or sleeves that drag. You’re not alone if you find that petite sizes are available in shops and online. This means that you will have more success finding items that suit your size. Although petite sizing dates back to the 1940s, there are still few options compared with “regular” sizes. But don’t be discouraged, we have some tips and tricks that will help you find the perfect fit. You may have wondered what the sizes mean and how to use them. We explain what the word “petite” means, and provide helpful tips for shopping in the petite category both online and at stores.
What is Petite Sizing?
The word “petite”, in its literal sense, means small or tiny. However, when it comes to clothing, the petite range is designed to fit women who are shorter, usually up to 5’3″, or 5’4″. The word “petite” is used to describe height, not weight. This means that petite clothing can be found for all body types, including plus-sizes. Although petite sizing is more limited than standard sizing and can be uncomfortable for people with larger breasts or curvier figures, there are still options.
Petite Sizing vs. Standard Sizing
The biggest difference between standard and petite clothing is the shorter length of sleeves, hemlines and tops, and bottoms. As with any other sizing system, brands may make different distinctions. Some brands may only change the length, while others go further and incorporate other petite proportions. Some of these include (but are not limited to) narrower shoulders, higher armholes and shorter rises for petite pants. You may also want to try out a few petite pieces of clothing from different brands in order to find the best fit for your body.
Does Petite Sizing Have Different Styles?
You’ll often find smaller versions of popular styles. However, the design is usually altered to better fit and compliment a shorter frame. This is done by elongating the proportions of your body to make you look taller. You may notice that petite clothing has more vertical stripes, princess seams, smaller prints, and buttons, as well as thinner belts. Once you have tried on the pieces, it’s a good idea to note which ones you like best. This will help you when you go shopping in the future.
Style Tips
If you’re not sure where to begin or have trouble finding clothing that fits your petite frame, you may want to follow some basic guidelines.
· Monochrome is the way to go: A monochromatic outfit will elongate you. You can choose to wear a monochromatic outfit in black, or a more vibrant shade such as periwinkle.
· Pay attention to silhouette: Larger silhouettes may overwhelm someone of a smaller height. Play with proportions if you want to wear the oversized looks that are popular these days, such as boxy jackets or wide-leg trousers. If you want to add height, pair a looser item with something form-fitting. You could also try platform shoes.
· Showcase your best features. Your size isn’t all that matters about your appearance. You can use the same tip to highlight your best features whether you are petite or tall. It could be choosing pieces to accentuate your waist, or selecting cuts that highlight or elongate your legs or torso.
· Cropped silhouettes are a great option for petite women. They can offer more options in terms of pieces that fit. Cropped silhouettes will make you look taller on a smaller frame. This can help you find pieces that fit within the standard sizes or simply play with proportions.
Petite Clothing Shopping
After reading up on the best tips for petite sizes, you can start shopping. But you might want to do some research first. Online Shopping offers more petite options in general than brick-and mortar stores because many retailers dedicate more floor space for “regular-sized” clothing. You can use the Internet to find out which stores in your area have a petite section, and then go there.
You don’t have to worry if, when you go shopping, you can’t find petite sizes that fit your needs and tastes (or even many). A tailor will be able to help you adapt the clothing you like but that doesn’t quite fit. As with any shopping, it’s best to try before you buy. You can’t find petite sizes on e-commerce, so the next best option is to review the sizing information, customer reviews, and return policy before you check out. You might order multiple sizes and return the ones that don’t fit. Or, you could size it up, have it tailored, and then return those. You’ll eventually find brands that you like, and you can then shop with them.
