There are many upsides to being considered “petite.” First, lots of legroom in any mode of transportation. Second, we can reach into narrow spaces, which is super helpful when we accidentally drop jewelry down the drain. While I try to think of more validating reasons, let’s talk about the troubles we shorter ladies face when shopping for clothes and accessories. I’m 5’1 and I can’t tell you how many times I didn’t purchase a fantastic piece I vehemently wanted. Even with the smallest size the waist is too loose, sleeves are impractically elongated, shoulders don’t line up, fabric bunches up on the torso or, most commonly, the bottom hem is too lengthy. Yes, we know tailoring is an option but multiple trips adds up in money and time. So if you’re tired of being disappointed and are seeking destinations where you know you can score silhouettes and lengths that are catered to smaller proportions, read on for the 22 top places to shop. From fast-fashion heavy hitters like ASOS and Topshop to highly curated boutiques dedicated to petites you need to know about, this is your guide to scoring stylish finds that are scaled down for ladies who land under 5’5.
Hey Shorty!
Petite Studio
The NYC-based brand—founded by Jenny Wang, a petite—houses elevated, editor-approved separates. Find cropped culottes that actually graze the calves and coats that aren't oddly huge.
Stature
A highly curated boutique filled with hand-selected clothes and shoes from independent lines, Stature is one to bookmark. If certain designers don't normally carry smaller sizes, Stature will work with them to release customized items exclusive to the store. The lineup boasts effortless cool, which includes Rachel Comey, Maryam Nassir Zadeh, Loup and Carleen.
Reformation
No need for an introduction, Ref's modern interpretation of vintage-inspired silhouettes keeps stylish girls wanting more. Its collection of gorgeous dresses is especially what makes the eco-friendly brand addicting, and its petite section offers shorter, slimmer cuts of select pieces that won't drown tiny frames—aka you can forgo hemming maxis.
Aritizia
Another reason to love the affordable Canadian design house? Its range of sizes. Starting from XXS and 00, you can find smaller sizes of Babaton, Wilfred, Community and its other labels that are friendly to petites.
Frilly
Its personalized, made-to-order process takes customization to new heights. You can choose the type of hardware, color, fabric, sleeves, neckline, waist, hem and, of course, the measurements.
Donni
Although it sells regular sizes, Donni's newly launched RTW range generally fits smaller. I'm personally obsessed with the Flora Pants. The tapered leg ends just above my ankles and the ultra-high waist is seriously flattering.
Revolve
Home to in-house LA-girl labels available in sizes XXS, Revolve's feminine, flirty lineup will fulfill your sartorial needs for festival season and summer getaways. Be sure to check out Lovers + Friends, By The Way, Majorelle and Privacy Please.
Bomb Petite
Shop workwear, occasion pieces, fitness apparel, lingerie and accessories from emerging labels for ladies under 5'5. While you're at it, read Bomb Petite's original editorial content on how to style trends for your body type.
J.Crew
We adore the iconic brand for its modern take on preppy, colorful all-American style, and they happen to have an extensive petite section you can't miss.
ASOS
The one-stop shop for wallet-friendly trendy finds welcomes petites with a bevy of smaller sizes for select items.
Topshop
Another British mega retailer that is brimming with everything of-the-moment, Topshop also has a collection for petites. It is particularly fantastic in sizing for skirts, trousers and jeans. Waists properly fit and hems hang where they're supposed to.
Paige
Jeans are often the hardest piece to shop for when you've got a smaller stature. Almost always the legs are too long or the waist is just a tad bit loose. Luckily, the It-girl denim line caters to those 5'4 and under with an impressive range of styles to choose from.
Ann Taylor
When you're in need of workwear staples, this is where you should head to. Classic trousers are abbreviated to flatter your height.
Banana Republic
Another solid choice for 9-to-5 clothes.
LOFT
Ann Taylor's sister store is more playful and feminine. Its bright, girly blouses that have slimmer measurements around the shoulders and chest are great for the office and during the weekend.
Nordstrom
From Vince Camuto to Halogen, check out its reliable petites range.
Macy's
The department store's dress category comprises a variety of styles and a good pants selection for plus-size petites.
Anthropologie
We can always count on the boho-chic store to deliver an array of gorgeous, floaty warm-weather pieces, and the petites section will ensure they won't swallow you.
Lane Bryant
The plus-size retailer's petites collection welcomes shorter curvy ladies with stylish finds that complement proportions.
Express
Express is where you can snag both essential basics and sleek, trendy buys. A Bordeaux striped wide-leg trouser is unexpectedly versatile, and we expect that it won't drag on the floor.
Boden
The UK's answer to J.Crew, Boden's range is easy to wear à la this adorable embroidered utility jacket that goes with anything.
Missguided
An endless compilation of head-turning numbers fit for petites with unbeatable prices to don on date nights and GNO. Boohoo, Miss Selfridge and River Island are also worth a peek.
