- Know your inseam, rise, and torso length.
As a general guideline, 26 inches is the best inseam for petites — that said, this can depend a bit on your height and the style of the product you’re buying. If you’re on the shorter side (5-foot-1 and under) or you’re buying ankle length pants or jeans, 25 inches may be a better bet — whereas if you’re closer to 5-foot-4 or plan to wear heels, you might opt for a 28 inch inseam. A mid-rise is the most universally flattering and versatile, because you don’t have to worry about it hitting at an awkward place on your shorter torso. That said, as long as you’re buying a petite-specific piece, you can rest assured that even high-rise and low-rise options have been adjusted to accommodate the proportions of your frame.
Torso length is worth considering, too: Petite-sized tops and dresses are generally designed with higher waistlines and raised hems, but knowing your exact measurements can help you select styles that are more appropriate for your body. For instance, long, tunic style tops may not work for those with particularly short torsos — even in petite sizing.
- Know when hemming makes sense and when it doesn’t.
Sometimes, all you need is a good tailor to make a piece of clothing fit your petite frame flawlessly. Assuming that the only fit issue is that a piece is too long, hemming makes sense for:
- Straight-leg/skinny pants and jeans
- Shift dresses, sheath dresses, and other simple silhouette dresses
- Straight miniskirts and midi skirts, as well as pencil skirts
However, taking up certain styles at the hem — like flared and boot-cut jeans, structured wide-leg trousers, dresses with belts or multiple ruffled tiers, and A-line dresses — can throw off the overall proportions. For example, the flare might not start at the right spot on the leg, or the belt on the dress might not sit at the natural waist.
- Use tricks when there is no petite sizing.
Just because you’re petite doesn’t necessarily mean you have to wear clothes that are specially designed for petite frames. If your favorite brands don’t have petite lines, you can still use smart shopping strategies to find clothes that fit well. Cropped sweaters and jackets, ankle-length leggings and jeans, and ¾-length or “bracelet” sleeves are usually a safe bet.
