by Sucharita Ray

Created on: August 19, 2009

Before taking baby steps into the world of petite fashion let us crawl back to the definition of petite as the apparel industry understands it. Petite means anyone of height 5'-4 or less. Petite women don't necessarily have to be dainty, wispy like Nicole Richie. A petite girl can be of any body shape - rectangular, bell or curvy. However, they are some basic guidelines that can help petite women of any shape look taller.

Of course you may be petite and not want to look taller. However, they may be some situations when some added visual height will add to your personality. For example, at a job interview a taller woman usually has the initial advantage over her petite competitor.

They are many ways to add length to the petite frame but the most important word in the petite girl's fashion diary is fit. Whatever piece of garment it may be, it should fit right. You don't want it to cling to your body but rather drape and skim your curves to give the impression of a long silhouette. You will naturally find a better fit in the petite section of stores.

COLOR

Wearing a single color from top to bottom adds length to any frame. However monotone dressing need not be drab and boring. You can effectively pair a red or blue dress with nude leggings and pumps. Naturally, a darker shade will make you look slimmer and thus taller. Insert texture to monotone outfits to add interest. A black silk jersey dress with black leggings and black textured leather shoes always works. Alternatively, you can slightly vary the saturation of the color in the different pieces of your outfit.

VERTICAL LINES

The eye travels along the lines of your outfit. Therefore vertical lines add length whereas horizontal ones add width. Vertical lines can be added through stripes, seams and details. It is common knowledge that vertical stripes make you look taller but be cautious not to overdo it. Vertical stripes on both top and bottom will be too overwhelming and very broad vertical stripes will look disproportionate on the petite frame. Vertical princess seams that are not interrupted by other fashion details like pockets add length as do fashion details like buttons, prints, sequins and ribbons when applied in an uninterrupted vertical line.

For more interesting options look for diagonal stripes or chevron stripes which create a series of flattering V-shapes that make petites look longer and leaner.

TOPS

Look for fitted shirts and jackets. Avoid shoulder pads as they will add volume

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