The Best Brands for Petite Ladies

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Finding clothes that actually flatter a petite woman can feel like hunting for a unicorn, right? Thankfully, a few smart brands have figured out how to design clothes for our smaller frame, from jeans with the right inseams, to dresses that hit just the right spot above the knee, not mid-calf (ha!). Today I’m sharing some of the best brands for petite ladies petite and a few adorable pieces to refresh your wardrobe this season.

Show Your Legs To Make Them Look Longer

Talbots try on in June, blue sweater and navy scalloped skirt
Charming Cardigan (Medium) | Scallop Wrap Linen Skirt (Size 8)

For my petite ladies, showing your legs helps to give the illusion of height. I’m sure you already know this. That is why so many of you resist wearing midi or maxi dresses and think they make you look shorter. However, remember that if you buy a “petite” item, they have been adjusted for your body.

I would love for all of you to try things, even though you think they won’t work for you. If they work, fantastic! If they don’t work, well… no big deal, at least you gave it the old college try.

Denim Shift Dress – Talbots

Talbots always nails it for petites, and this Denim Shift Dress is proof. It’s designed with petite sizing, so it won’t swamp your frame or look boxy. The slight A-line shape skims your hips gently, making it a perfect staple piece for casual days.

  • Designed specifically for a smaller frame
  • Soft denim feels comfy and easy to move in
  • Looks cute with sandals now and layered with a blazer later

Lightweight Woven Stretch Wide Leg Ankle Pants – Talbots

If you’ve struggled to find pants that don’t pool around your shoes, you’ll love these Wide Leg Ankle Pants. The wide leg and ankle length work wonders for shorter inseams, making your legs look longer. I’ve seen petite gals wear these with flats, sneakers, or low heels, all adorable!

  • Stretch fabric keeps you comfy all day
  • Ankle length means no awkward hemming
  • Perfect trousers for work or brunch

Flowy Tie Waist Pull-On Shorts – Talbots

For sunny days, these flowy Pull-On Shorts are so flattering. They have a tie waist that lets you adjust for your best fit, no gaps or tugging. Plus, the shorter inseam hits just right, giving your legs a little spotlight.

  • Adjustable tie waist for a custom fit
  • Drapey fabric feels breezy and light
  • Cute with a tucked-in shirt or tank

High-Waisted O.G. Straight Cut-Off Jeans – Old Navy

Old Navy is another great retailer for petites on a budget. These Straight Cut-Off Jeans have that cool laid-back vibe but come in petite sizing, so you get that ankle-grazing look without hacking them yourself. Great for weekends or casual Fridays!

  • High waist flatters a petite shape
  • Raw hem gives a relaxed, trendy touch
  • Good stretch for all-day comfort

High-Rise Pixie Ankle Pants – Old Navy

I swear by Pixie pants, and if you haven’t tried them yet, do it now! They come in a petite range, so you get a polished, tailored look with zero alterations needed. These Ankle Pants work with flats, loafers, or heels, whatever your day holds.

  • Great wardrobe basic for work and weekends
  • Smooth fit that hugs just right
  • Tons of colors to mix and match

Petite Palazzo Jeans in White – LOFT

These Palazzo Jeans from LOFT are so chic! The wide leg keeps it modern, while the shorter inseam means no dragging hems. Pair them with a fitted top to balance the volume, and you’ll feel like you walked out of a style blog!

  • High-rise flatters the waist
  • Crisp white denim for fresh summer style
  • LOFT’s petite offering always impresses

Linen Long Sleeve Feminine Shirt – Lands’ End

Lands’ End may surprise you with its solid petite section. This linen shirt is a gem, not too long, with sleeves that don’t drown your hands. It’s a timeless piece for warm weather, and the breathable fabric is so good for everyday wear.

  • Soft linen keeps you cool
  • Feminine shape avoids that boxy feel
  • A classic to wear with jeans, shorts, or skirts

Lightweight Jersey Ruffle Peplum Top – Lands’ End

I love a good peplum on a petite woman; it defines your waist without adding bulk. This jersey version from Lands’ End is comfy and cute, with just enough ruffles to make it flirty but not too fussy. Dress it up or down!

  • Soft jersey fabric drapes nicely
  • Peplum hem highlights your waist
  • Ruffle detail adds a playful touch

Wide-Leg Cropped Jean in All-Day Stretch – J.Crew Factory

Cropped wide-leg denim is having a moment, and this pair nails it for petites. The shorter length shows your ankles, which helps balance the wider leg. Plus, the stretch makes them extra comfy for all-day wear.

  • Cropped cut is perfect for petite sizing
  • All-day stretch means no pinching
  • Cute with sneakers or wedges

Linen-Blend Faux Wrap Skirt – J.Crew Factory

A midi skirt can be tricky on a petite frame, but this Faux Wrap Skirt style keeps it flattering. It’s cut just right to skim your knees or mid-calf, not your ankles. Pair it with a tucked tee or a lightweight blouse for effortless style.

  • Faux wrap style looks chic but stays secure
  • Linen blend keeps you cool on hot days
  • A great skirt for work or weekend fun

Other Brands That Carry Petite Styles

There are a lot of brands that carry petite clothing, and here are a few of my favorites.

Wrap-Up

Shopping for a petite woman doesn’t have to mean endless alterations and guesswork. With these brands and pieces, you’ll build a wardrobe full of clothes made just for you, your body type, your proportions, and your style. If you’ve got a favorite petite find, share it below!

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91 Comments

  1. Congratulations to Stephanie. Good job!

    I was so happy to see the articles on petite sizes. I used to be 5’1″ and over the past couple of years, I am now only 4’10” !! In fact I am probably shrinking more as I write this. So this column has been a godsend for me. Thank you.

  2. sue koren says:

    🙂 Interesting post

  3. Rosemary Bravo 🌹 says:

    Thanks! I’m always looking for petite clothing. You made my day. The information is invaluable to me . Looking forward to a brand new wardrobe 😄

  4. Vicki from Oklahoma says:

    Thank you for all the information on Petite sizing. It’s good to know who has what. 🤗

  5. Thank you for not forgeting us petite ladies Tania.
    Especially loved those J Crew white crops. 🙂 🙂
    Double smile today..

  6. 🙂 Happy for all those petite ladies today.

  7. Elaine Patano says:

    Very helpful- as my upper arms are not my best feature, I need looks for a 78 year old petite gal