As a 5’1 Girlie, These Are the 10 Style Tips That I Swear By To Help Me Look More Put Together
Photo Credit:Towani Mutale
Girl,let’s be real—as a 5’1 petite girlie I can say that it has its perks. You get extra leg room on planes. You can shop in the kids’ section and no one will know. And you’ve never hit your head on a cabinet in your life.
But let’s not pretend it’s all sunshine and clearance racks.
Because sometimes, finding jeans that don’t bunch at the ankles feels like a miracle. And let’s not even talk about maxi dresses that look more like floor dusters than fashion moments. If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and thought, “Why do I look like I shrunk in the wash?”—same.
But the good news? You don’t need to grow 5 inches or live in 5-inch heels to look taller. These 10 style tricks work overtime to help you appear longer, leaner, and more put together—even when you’re just running errands.
Let’s get into it.
Also grab our 365 Outfit Prompts here so you’ll always know what to wear—no matter the season or your size.
Disclaimer: This article does include affiliate links which I may earn a small commission for every purchase at no extra cost to you.
1. Go for One Color Head to Toe
This is the easiest trick in the book. Wearing one color (or shades of the same color) from top to bottom creates one long visual line, making you look taller instantly. Matching sets, jumpsuits, and even coordinating loungewear are perfect for this.
Meshki
Denim Button Up Top - Indigo Blue
$79
2. High-Waisted Bottoms Are Your MVP
High-waisted pants are a petite girl’s secret weapon. They give the illusion that your legs start way higher than they actually do. Whether you love wide-leg trousers, straight jeans, or chic skirts—go high or go home.
Tip: If you have a short torso, balance it with a cropped or tucked-in top.
Curve Love High Rise Loose Jean
$90
3. Say Yes to Pointed-Toe Shoes
Even flats can give you a little lift if they’re pointed. Pointed-toe shoes extend the line of your leg, unlike rounded ones that can cut it short.
Bonus points if they’re nude or close to your skin tone—they make your legs look even longer.
The Bow Point II
$165
4. Tailoring Is a Game Changer
Petite-friendly brands are great. But a tailor? Even better. A small tweak to your pants, sleeves, or blazer length can make your outfit look 10x more expensive—and way more flattering.
No tailor? Try hemming tape for a quick fix (Amazon to the rescue).
Cinched Waist Blazer - Chocolate
$225
5. Choose Smaller Bags
We love a statement tote, but let’s be honest—giant bags can overwhelm a petite frame. Stick to mini to medium-sized purses to stay in proportion and let your outfit shine.
Look for: Crossbody bags, top handle satchels, or small shoulder bags.
Dior Saddle Bag
$2,200
6. Add Structure with Cropped Jackets
Oversized blazers are cute, but they can easily swallow a smaller frame. Cropped jackets that hit at the waist help define your shape and make your legs look longer.
Layer over: Bodysuits, tanks, or a simple fitted tee.
Jean Eyelet Jacket
$59.99
7. Stick to Clean, Straight Details
Forget the fashion lingo. Here’s what works: long hemlines, clean seams, and sleek cuts. That means no chunky ruffles, oversized pleats, or anything too busy up top. You want pieces that visually glide down the body—not out to the sides.
Button-Down Ribbed Top
$19.99
8. Tuck Your Tops (Even Just a Little)
A French tuck or full tuck is a petite styling staple. It creates the illusion of longer legs and a more defined waist. Letting your shirt hang loose can make you look boxy or shorter than you are.
Tip: Use a bodysuit or a fitted tank as your base—no tucking required.
Double-Layer Cami Bodysuit
$24.99
9. Go Monochrome (Again)
Yes, I’m saying it twice because it’s just that good. If you don’t know what to wear, pick one color and build from there. Even neutrals like white, gray, or camel can look sleek when styled all in one tone.
Bonus: Matching sets are everywhere right now.
Summer Two Piece Outfit Set
$29.99
10. Check Yourself Before You Wreck Your Look
Before you leave the house, give your outfit one last look in the mirror. Are your proportions working? Is your bag too bulky? Are your sleeves eating your arms? A quick mirror check saves you from an outfit regret spiral later.
Forester Dress
Amanda Uprichard
$246
Looking taller isn’t about tricking the world—it’s about feeling confident in your clothes. And when your outfit works with your frame (instead of against it), you show up a little taller, a little bolder, and a lot more you.
Want more style tips like this? Grab our 365 Outfit Prompts here so you’ll always know what to wear—no matter the season or your size.
