The Short Girl's Guide to Looking Taller: Fashion Tricks from a Personal Stylist
As a fashion stylist, especially one that works exclusively with real people for their real lives, it’s not surprising that my clients come in all shapes, sizes and heights. Often my petite clients call themselves, vertically challenged. And they feel like they need to abide by certain outdated styling rules for the short girl crew.
But I’m here to tell you the truth about how to look taller, no matter your actual height. And it does not mean you need to wear heels all the time (spoiler alert - that’s one of the outdated rules).
A question I often get asked from gals that are both petite and average height is "how can I look taller?"
I think that’s because while we know that height doesn't define us or our style, there's no denying that certain outfits and styling tricks can make us appear taller and leaner.
If you're a shorter woman who wants to elongate her silhouette and boost her confidence, or a woman of average height wanting to appear more statuesque, then this blog post is for you!
In this guide, I'll be sharing some of my favorite fashion hacks and tips that will make you look taller instantly. So, whether you're headed to a formal event or just want to look chic and stylish in your everyday life, read on to discover how to style for your height and feel fabulous.
Fashion Tricks For Looking Taller
Vertical Lines are Your BFF
Vertical lines are a petite girl's secret weapon. They draw the eye up and down, creating the illusion of height. Look for pieces with vertical stripes, seams, or even pleats to elongate your frame.
Pro tip: Avoid horizontal lines, as they can make you look wider instead of taller. The eye naturally goes to a change of color or texture, that is why horizontal lines are not a short girls bff.
Shop Vertical Lines
High-Waisted Everything
High-waisted bottoms, be it skirts, shorts, or pants, are a game-changer for short ladies. They create the illusion of longer legs by accentuating your natural waistline. Pair them with a tucked-in or cropped top for maximum leg-lengthening effect!
Shop High-Waisted Bottoms
Monochromatic Magic
Dressing in a single color from head to toe is an easy way to look taller. It creates a continuous, uninterrupted line that elongates your silhouette. Play with different shades and textures within the same color family to keep things interesting. Don't be afraid to rock bold colors, too – you deserve to stand out!
Pro tip - Dress in a column of color. Picking one color for your top and bottom (it does not need to be black, nor does the entire outfit need to be one color). But using a column of color as the base of an outfit helps avoid horizontal lines that visually chop us up.
Also see the 2 out of 3 rule for a foundational outfit formula that gives you an A+ ensemble in addition to making you look taller!
Shop Monochrome Looks
Nude Shoes for the Win
Nude shoes that match your skin tone are a petite girl's best friend. They create the illusion of an unbroken line, making your legs appear longer. Opt for pointed-toe pumps or heels to give you that extra lift and confidence boost. Bonus: nude shoes go with almost everything in your wardrobe!
Shop Nude Shoes
Embrace the V-Neck
V-neck tops and dresses are great for creating the illusion of height. They draw the eye downward, making your torso appear longer. Plus, V-necks are super flattering for most body shapes, so it's a win-win situation. Remember, the deeper the V, the taller you'll look!
Shop V-Necks
Say Yes to Vertical Accessories
Choose accessories that help create vertical lines, like long necklaces or drop earrings. They'll draw the eye up and down, giving you that desired height boost. And while we're at it, avoid chokers and short necklaces, as they can make your neck appear shorter.
If you’re not sure what top to wear with your necklace, check out my blog post, Necklace Pairings 101: How to Match Your Necklace to Your Neckline
Shop Vertical Accessories
Tailor to Perfection
A well-fitted outfit can work wonders for your stature. Make sure your clothes fit you perfectly, especially when it comes to pant and sleeve lengths. If needed, invest in a good tailor to customize your clothing for a flawless, height-enhancing fit.
Show Off Those Ankles
When wearing pants, opt for cropped styles or roll up your hems to show off your ankles. This little trick will make your legs look longer and slimmer. Plus, it's a great way to show off your favorite shoes!
Pro Tip: The perfect crop. What is the ideal length for a cropped pant?
The middle to top of the ankle is a length that will pair well with heels, flats or booties. And it will show just the right amount of skin to make you appear taller.
Shop Cropped Pants
Confidence is Key
Last but definitely not least, the most important tip for looking taller is confidence! Stand tall, shoulders back, and rock your outfit with pride. There’s nothing wrong with being petite! When you feel amazing, you'll look amazing – height is just a number, after all! Remember, confidence is your best accessory, and your height doesn't define your style!
How To Look Taller in Pictures
I have a bonus tip for you that I learned from a young woman I used to work with. She is a model and shared a trick for looking taller that I have used in many photos, and I must say it really does work!
