Before picture of SueBy Donna Duarte-Ladd
Frustrated by the lack of options in petite sizes, working mother Sue falls back on safe separates that do nothing for her shape. Boxy blazers and long skirts overwhelm her 5-foot frame, and the blocks of solid color (olive jacket, dark brown skirt, dark leggings) segment her body, making her appear even shorter. Sue's stark neutrals are low-maintenance, but also low on style. Photo by Perry Hagopian
The Solution
The following pieces helped elongate Sue's stature without overwhelming her petite frame. Photo by Perry Hagopian
Jacket: This swing coat's wide lapels and the dress's scoop neck reveal Sue's decolletage, drawing attention to her face. The ¾-length sleeves make it look like Sue has a higher waistline, so her legs seem longer. PRIM New York Swing Coat, $180 (in orchid and woodbine); PrimCollection.com.
Dress: In general, hemlines that graze the knee and show a little leg elongate petite types. The bright floral print adds youthful energy. Garnet Hill Ingleside Silk Dress, $158; GarnetHill.com.
Belt: Pre-makeover, Sue hid under shape-less layers that weighed her down. A waist-cinching belt highlights her trim middle-and keeps the dress's large-scale print from swallowing her up. Woven Trimmed Leatherette Belt, $5.80; Forever21.com for stores.
Shoes: Three-inch wedges add height and the nude color blends in with Sue's legs, creating a long, lithe line from knee to toe. Dexter for Payless Kylie Wedges, $26.99; Payless.com.
Learn 9 secrets of wardrobe stylists.
Top It Off
Floaty blouses aren't off limits when the cut is trim. H&M Blouse, $29.95; HM.com for stores. Photo by Stuart Tyson/Studio D
Fit to Print
Prints should be tailored (or belted) like this shift so they don't swamp a petite frame. Tulle Sleeveless Dress, $68; Tulle4Us.com. Photo by Stuart Tyson/Studio D
See 12 figure-flattering dresses under $50.
Wear the Pants
Shorter women can wear capris. The trick: slightly tapered legs and a hem that hits just at the ankle. J.Crew Minnie Pant in Stretch Twill, $89.50; JCrew.com. Photo by Stuart Tyson/Studio D
Original article appeared on WomansDay.com.
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