7 Fall Fashion Trends That Are Perfect for Women Under 5'3"

The maxi skirt craze of summer 2024 is showing signs of surging through fall—and petites can pull off the look if they style it mindfully. "Opt for a fitted top or a tucked-in blouse to balance the maxi skirt. A fitted tank or a tucked-in sweater works well, especially if the skirt has a high waist," Baudino says. And she suggests pairing the look with ankle boots, sandals or ballet flats to keep the look grounded. "Avoid overly bulky shoes, since they tend to overwhelm the look of a boho maxi on petites," she says.

Vests are coming into their own as tops in early fall, and transitioning into key layered pieces as the weather turns colder. Petites want to avoid the look adding bulk or having layers be too loose or tight. "Ensure the vest fits well around the shoulders and chest to avoid gaping. A tailored vest looks more polished and intentional," Baudino advises. She suggests using a belt to cinch the waist on longer vests, to add a defined shape. "Try pairing them with tailored pants or a pencil skirt for a chic, put-together outfit," she says. Vested pantsuit? Love the lengthening look on petites.

Petites often assume wide-leg trousers will be too bulky for their figure, but Baudino says the look is one to embrace, with careful styling. "Pair with a fitted or cropped top to balance the wide-leg shape. A blouse with a slightly tucked-in look works well to define the waist," she says. "Heeled boots or shoes can help elongate the legs and keep the pants from dragging. Choose footwear that complements the length of the pants but also comfort for me is key—for instance, it’s easy to dress up a look with an elevated sneaker."

Petites need to think fit and proportion when it comes to wearing the fall knee-high boots trend. "Ensure the boots fit snugly around the calf to avoid gaps and to keep the look sleek. Opt for adjustable styles if you have a narrower or wider calf," Baudino says. "Wear them with skirts or dresses that hit above the knee to show off the boots. For a more casual look, pair with skinny jeans or leggings tucked in." She points out that neutral or classic colors are versatile, but you shouldn't shy away from bold colors or patterns. "I’m always about making a statement!" she says.

Baudino likes skirt suits—barer in late summer, then layered up as the fall chill descends. "Ensure both the skirt and blazer are well-tailored to avoid excess fabric," she says. "A fitted blazer and a pencil skirt or an A-line skirt can create a balanced silhouette. For versatility, consider mixing the skirt and blazer with other pieces. Pair the blazer with jeans or the skirt with a simple tee for varied looks." She advises opting for heels or dressy flats to maintain a polished appearance.

Funnel neck sweaters are a favorite of Baudino as either key layering pieces or as casual stand-alone tops. "Layer them over fitted tops or turtlenecks for added warmth and dimension," she advises. "Avoid bulkiness by keeping layers slim and smooth—and tuck the sweater into high-waist skirts or pants to define your waist and avoid a slouchy look."

Choose a jacket that's well-fitted through the shoulders and waist, says Baudino. "An hourglass jacket should enhance your natural curves without being too tight: Wear with tailored pants or a pencil skirt to emphasize the jacket’s shape, and avoid bulky or overly loose garments underneath." Be sure to opt for slim layers underneath the jacket to maintain your sleek silhouette by pairing with a lightweight shirt or blouse.