Heck! I’m short

‘I’m not short, my height is just cute’, or ‘Beautiful things often come in small packages’, are the two most common phrases we get to hear from girls who are below the considered average Indian height. While some may totally believe in themselves, there are those, who, no matter how much they try to defend themselves, there is a small part of them that still wishes they were tall.

It’s important to be comfortable with self and pay attention to attire and dress sense. A perfectly picked outfit makes a huge difference and makes you feel tall and confident. A lot can be done with just your outfit and the way you choose to mix match and wear it. The idea is to work with natural body type and dress up to bring out the best in us. 

The first rule of thumb for petite women is to follow the 2/3rd – 1/3rd rule. It just means that you do not split your body into two halves with your dressing. Instead, you cover 2/3rd of your body with the bottoms and remaining 1/3rd with your top. Layering is the best way to spice up your look, but make sure you do not overdo it.

If you choose stripes, choose vertical, especially for one piece dresses, trousers, etc. Tops can be horizontal. Do not choose dresses that stop in the calf region – either keep it short till the knees or till the ankle.

Be careful of where the shoulders are placed – they need to be on point and not be too tight or too loose. Stay away from outfits that are too boxy and square shaped; it does not suit your body type.

Make monochromes your best friend! Wear heels or some elevated footwear – most obvious way to look taller.

Accessories and belts – always keep them slim and narrow instead of broad and bulky.

Outfit Ideas
Choose maxi dresses over straight cuts. Asymmetrical hemlines, cap or flower sleeves, ruffled bodice, etc., are great. Dresses with lighter fabrics like organza, georgette, etc., are good. Pair it up with chunky accessories but ensure they are not too gaudy.

Pencil skirts complement your body type, but you need to style the outfit with something that does not shrink you further. Forget about those tank or tube tops and swap them with a plaid or chambray shirt that has the right amount of volume.  Tuck it in, and doll up in pointed heels – it is the most obvious way of looking taller.

Going in for a jumpsuit can make a lot of difference to the height. The tieable ones instead of the buttoned downs are even better. This w ith ankle length boots will never disappoint you. Boyfriend/mommy jeans, distressed denim, etc. add a filter to your outfit. They stretch your lower body and to make it seem longer.

If you are headed to an evening or cocktail party, go with crop tops and baggy pants, palazzo pantsuits, etc. that make your legs look elongated. Remember to always wear heels or wedges with this get-up.