Spring’s Three Worst Trends for Petites (And What to Wear Instead)
by Molly Fergus, REDBOOK
The style pendulum's swinging this spring, with wide-leg pants subbing for skinny jeans and ankle-length skirts picking up where miniskirts left off. We've sifted through the three worst offenders for petite figures - and figured out how to nail the look anyway.
Mid-calf skirts
Mid-calf skirts in bulky materials like faux leather and stiff denim are a big trend for spring. Though the retro-inspired length is fun, all that fabric overwhelms a smaller frame.
Alternative: Opt for a light, pleated ballet-inspired skirt like this pretty, navy blue version from Lulu's. You'll get the on-trend hemline without letting the heavy fabric weigh you down.
Related: 51 Days of Cute Outfits
Super wide leg pants
Wide leg pants are set to replace skinny jeans this season, and although well-tailored trousers are almost universally figure-flattering, the extreme, balloon-like version of this trend swallows petites.
Alternative: Wear the runway-inspired silhouette by investing in trouser-style jeans that cinch at the waist and fit throughout the hips, like these indigo rinse jeans from Ann Taylor Loft.
Related: 10 Speedy Ways to Get Pretty for a Hot Date
Maxi skirts
Gauzy, floor-length maxi dresses have been a summer staple for a few seasons, but now the ankle-length skirt is making its comeback. Petites risk losing their figures with this flowing bohemian style.
Alternative: Pair wedge heels with a fitted, long pencil skirt, like this funky, faux paint-splashed version from from Urban Outfitters. You'll get the fresh length (and some height!) without the extra bulk.
Related: Designer Lela Rose Shares Her Wardrobe Essentials
More from REDBOOK:
Connect with REDBOOK:
Permissions:
Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.
