“Petite in French means Small”
So, it’s quite understandably to think that petite sizes are for smaller frames.
I’m 5’2 and generally wear a size 10/12 Petite, and visit my local alterations shop regularly for a perfect fit.
What you should know about Petite Fashion.
What height is considered petite? Well, petite is about proportions, so you can be considered petite if you are 4’11- 5’4 in height. General petite sizing is 0P-16P and in letter sizing XXSP, XSP, SP, MP, LP, XLP. Are petite fashions smaller or just shorter so, let’s discuss the particulars I ‘am short but not petite in frame, so sometimes it works and others not so much. There is a misconception that petite means small frame and skinny, but petite has nothing to do with our weight in fact petites come in all sizes as stated previously.
Petites are a size range of clothing that is meant o fit short stature figures
The most obvious thing you'll notice—and the most important—is that the clothing is shorter in length. Sleeves, skirts, leg lengths, and tops are all shorter. Because clothing manufacturers cut to their own specifications, the length may be the only difference in some cases. Higher-quality petite pieces have other design differences, such as higher armholes, narrower shoulders, and proportionally sized details. Petite pants should have a shorter rise, and a petite dresses should have a shorter bodice.
Hems: This one, most of us know. Petite dresses and skirts have slightly higher hemlines, petite pants have shorter inseams.
Arms: Most petite clothing is designed with shorter sleeves.
Rise: Many petite pants and jeans will have a slightly shorter rise than regular sizes.
Waist: To accommodate a frame that is often more compact, petite dress waistlines are often a little higher than those of regular sized dresses.
Knees: If you’re working with a really good petite line, designers will have adjusted knee placement to suit shorter legs.
Shopping Tips
Sizing doesn't always make sense, even with retailers that have specific lines for petites. So when shopping, don't look at sizing tags, look at measurements. With some brands, the larger kids sizes are interchangeable with the smaller petite sizes.
For bustier petites, balance is key, "For big-busted petites, empire waists are great since they nip you in beneath the bustline." You have a smaller frame, don’t overlook kid’s sizes.
Maxi dresses pay extra attention to the silhouette, You can wear maxis, but be mindful of roomy cuts with lots of material, If something is voluminous on the bottom, balance things out by wearing something fitted or tucked on top.
High waited bottoms and crop tops, Again, balance is key. Pair a fitted crop top with high-waisted skirts or shorts. This can help balance both halves without sacrificing shape.
Pair shoes and bottoms that are similar in color, black heels with black tights and shoes in same skin tone color to elongate your legs.
Know which brands are petite-friendly.
asos.com, BCBG, macys.com, boohoo.com, h&m.com, Nordstrom, J.crew.com , thelimited.com, Loft.com, missguidedus.com , nastygal.com, nyandcompany.com , Nordstrom.com , topshop.com and more
Don’t feel like you have to conform to any fashion rules, wear what makes you happy and comfortable.
Your Friend Rocio!
Until the next blog.
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