How do I dress my petite, curvy frame? (2024)

Helping you decode & address which styles work best on your body shape is what we’re here for!

Keep reading for Stylist advice to carry around in your back pocket!

How do I dress my petite, curvy frame? (1)

A+ for A-Line Silhouettes

A-line silhouettes pack a powerful style punch—wear them with aplomb! If you’re curvy, this style will accentuate your waist. Since you’re also petite look for dresses that hit a few inches above your knee to avoid overwhelming your frame.

Add Length with Monochrome

There’s a reason all-black is a classic look. Not only does a dark, tonal outfit create the illusion of a streamlined silhouette—it also avoids breaking up your frame. Monochrome palettes are your new style superpower, so start collecting dark colors like navy and black and wear them together. Yes, you can wear navy & black— we swear!

Put a Belt on It

Another trick of the trade? Invest in belts to style with loose fitting dresses, tunics or blouses. If you’re petite—tunics will be perfect for you lengthwise—just add a belt. Not only do they help accessorize and add a fun detail to your outfit, they’ll also accentuate your lovely curves.

Another quick style tip? Take advantage of the cropped denim fad—it’s totally on-trend and tailor-free. Look for jeans that have a higher waist to (again) accentuate your waist and define your curves.

Scroll through to see our favorite pieces that every petite gal should have in her closet!

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—Christina

Ready to play up your figure? Our expert stylists are here to assist with all your petite curvy needs. Take your style quiz and order a Fix. Sit back, relax and receive five curated pieces right at your doorstep that you can try at home. Keep what you love and send back the rest. Shipping, returns and exchanges are always free, giving you even more peace of mind.

By: Logan Payne

April 17, 2017

How do I dress my petite, curvy frame? (2024)

FAQs

How do I dress my petite, curvy frame? ›

A-line silhouettes pack a powerful style punch—wear them with aplomb! If you're curvy, this style will accentuate your waist. Since you're also petite look for dresses that hit a few inches above your knee to avoid overwhelming your frame.

What should I wear if I'm petite and curvy? ›

2) High waisted jeans/ pants: If you're petite and curvy, then high waisted jeans and wide pants will work wonders. They help create a more defined waist and visually elongate the legs which makes your silhouette look more balanced.

What looks good on a petite frame? ›

Read on for some awesome outfit ideas and tips on how to dress for a petite body type.
  • Wear long vests with high waisted denim. Starting out with a bang! ...
  • Wear dresses that stop just above the knee. ...
  • Pull up waistbands to hip length. ...
  • Wear striped denim with a cropped jacket. ...
  • Turn a blouse into a tie waist top.

What is the best way to flatter a petite body shape? ›

A: The best dress shape for petite women often includes styles that define the waist and enhance curves, such as wrap dresses, fit-and-flare dresses, and sheath dresses with hemlines just above the knee. These shapes can accentuate your waistline and elongate your legs, creating a harmonious and flattering silhouette.

What not to wear if you are petite? ›

10 Things To Avoid As A Petite Woman
  • Rule #1: Avoid Horizontal Stripes. ...
  • Rule #2: Avoid Thick Belts. ...
  • Rule #3: Avoid Batwing Sleeves. ...
  • Rule #4: Avoid Oversized Accessories. ...
  • Rule #5: Avoid Big, Bold Prints. ...
  • Rule #6: Avoid Calf-Length Hemlines. ...
  • Rule #7: Avoid Dresses that Flare Out. ...
  • Rule #8: Avoid Shoes with Ankle Straps.
Oct 31, 2022

Are high-waisted pants good for petites? ›

High-rise waists are a dream for petite women! By hiking up your waistline, you're elongating your legs. Even without heels. Whether skinny jeans are your ride or die, or you're the type to have a pair of jeans for every mood, it's important to find what feels best for you and works with your existing wardrobe.

Can a petite wear baggy jeans? ›

Ensure your baggy jeans fit well in the waist and hips while providing a relaxed fit through the legs. Avoid jeans that are overly oversized, as they can overwhelm your frame. Look for styles labeled "short" or "petite" to find the right proportions. High-Rise Waist: Opt for baggy jeans with a high-rise waistline.

What dress suit petite body type? ›

The most flattering fits are those that accentuate the waist. Some petite dress silhouettes to look for are wraps, fit and flares, and belted styles. This is because of the definition they tend to provide! With a rectangle frame, it's all about creating shape.

What body size is considered petite? ›

Petite refers to stature not weight. Most people still think petite means skinny when in fact petite has nothing to do with weight. Petite is the term used in the fashion industry to describe a woman who is 5'3 tall or under. Petite women come in all shapes and sizes, whether they're a size 4 or 14.

Should petites wear large prints? ›

Most flattering dresses for petite women

Avoid maxi dresses and large prints. Also jumpsuits and playsuits look great on for petite bodies.

What does petite and curvy mean? ›

Typically when describing body shapes and sizes, people will often call me petite because I have a small frame. It's understandable because petite is “small” in French. Katherine is often called “curvy” because she has a fuller frame.

What should I wear if I have a curvy body? ›

Garments that highlight the waist are especially flattering for curvy women. Wear belts, A-line dresses, or fitted garments to accentuate this area and create an hourglass silhouette.

What jeans to wear if you are short and curvy? ›

The goal is to select jeans that flatter your curves while making sure the length doesn't overwhelm your petite frame. Look for mid-rise or high-rise jeans that elongate your legs and highlight your waist. Stretch denim is your friend, because they're comfortable, but fitting.

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