It’s getting hot in here, and we’d like to show off our toned and self-tanned legs over the summer. But what if we we’re not working with miles-long stems? How can those of us who are petite style the summer wardrobe staple in a way that will flatter our figures while still giving street-style cred? Here are some rules to dress by for petite style in Summer 2023 and beyond, plus the best shorts to shop if you’re 5’4” and under.
3 Rules of Wearing Shorts If You’re 5’4” and Under
Yep, go for that high-waist pair
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Published Jun 5, 2023
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1-Edward Berthelot/Getty Images; 2,3 Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images
The Top Brands to Shop for Petite Shorts
Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
1. Wear Neutrals + One Bright Accessory
We petites don’t have too much real estate to work with, sartorially speaking. So wearing neutral tones is going to look elegant and streamlined, while a bright shoe or bag or piece of statement jewelry will elevate the whole fit. Extra points if, like 5’5” Yoyo Cao above, you can pull off a chunky heel.
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Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images
2. Embrace Breezy Matching Sets
Matching shirts and shorts are everywhere this season, and petites are jumping on board. We know that wearing a matching shirt and shorts, especially when it’s a loose-fitting top and generously-cut shorts, is going to lengthen our figure. (Also, who doesn’t appreciate a button-front shirt that can double as a jacket over a tank or a bandeau top?)
Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images
3. Depend on High-Waist Shorts to Add Inches
It’s been a lesson we’ve all learned from high-waist jeans: An 11-inch (or so) rise seems to make a person’s legs look a few inches longer, due to the optical illusion that all that tummy fabric is actually part of your pants legs. For the sleekest possible appearance (that’s ultra comfortable, to boot), choose shorts in a fabric with a bit of elastane or a waistband that’s elastic, so that when you sit down the high-waist cut doesn’t restrict you.
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