Most of you know by now that I’m only 5’2″, which often makes it difficult to find trends and pieces that work for my height and size. Although you can always get something tailored, it isn’t the most practical route when it comes to trendier pieces. I’ve always been careful to stick to the classics, but it can be hard to resist every single trend in the blogosphere. Having tried many of them this summer, I’ve taken stock of the best trends to wear when you’re petite. So whether you want to seem taller or just want to add fashionable pieces to your wardrobe, scroll ahead for six trends that’ll flatter your body features.

Ruffle Top & Skirt Set (just $12! wearing an S) | Badgley Mischka Heels (run TTS) | Givenchy Antigona Bag

Matching Sets

Matching sets have been going strong over the past few seasons and they’re so perfect for petite frames. I find that showing a little skin between two pieces is the perfect way to elongate the legs and create the illusion of a longer torso.

Zara Cream Tweed Blazer (exact style sold out, similar here) | Revolve Superdown Snakeskin Shorts (wearing an XS) | Superdown Ribbed Top (wearing an XS) | Saint Laurent College Bag via HGBags | Celine Sunglasses (better for budget here) | Ego Perspex Heels (go by UK sizing)

PVC Heels

Nude heels have been a long-time trick of mine to make my legs seem longer. However, the PVC shoe trend takes length to another level for us petite girls. Clear PVC straps also help add a modern touch that’s spruces up the most basic outfits.

DSW White Sandals (run TTS) | Balmain Blazer (wearing an FR34) | Revolve Pants (wearing an XS) | Tiger Mist Bodysuit (wearing an S)

Paper Bag Pants

Paper bag pants are perfect for us shorter girls because they’re high-waisted and cinch in the waist, which really create length. Wearing a neutral-colored style with heels only add to that effect. Plus, I love that paper bag pants are both trendy and polished, so you can wear it a blazer during the work week or with a crop top on the weekends.

Sofía Jeans by Sofía Vergara Denim Jacket (wearing an XS) | Sofía Jeans by Sofía Maxi Dress (wearing an XS – also comes in red!) | Cult Gaia Bag (on sale!) | Alexandre Birman Heels | Rag & Bone Panama Hat

Wrap Dresses

The wrap dress trend is another petite-friendly trend, especially if it’s a maxi style. Creating length is always a key factor for me and longer dresses are perfect because of the continuous color and silhouette. The wrap detail highlights the waist and if features a thigh slit, then you’ll instantly seem taller.

Revolve Pink Top (runs large, size down) | Levi’s Denim (wearing a 24) | Celine Sunglasses (better for budget here) | Dior Lucky Locket Necklace (similar here, better for budget here) | Ego Heels (use EU sizing – wearing an EU 36)

Crop Tops

One of my favorite outfit combinations for the summer is a crop top paired with a high-waist bottom whether that’s jeans or cutoff shorts. The combination is really flattering for anyone on the petite side and creates the illusion of long legs and height. Crop tops are also perfect for highlighting a smaller torso, so your body isn’t overwhelmed by something that’s too oversized.

Shop Fletch Asymmetric Jumpsuit (wearing an XS – use code MARIA10 for 10% off) | Chanel Bag (medium size) | Gucci Sunglasses (on sale! better for budget here) | Tamara Mellon Heels (run TTS)

Jumpsuit

Similar to maxi dresses, neutral-colored jumpsuits are also ideal for petites. I usually either opt for skinny or wide-leg silhouette for the most figure flattering fit. An ankle crop is perfect with high heels if you want a more tailored look. However, floor grazing pant legs are best for that “legs for days” effect.

xo, Maria

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