I’m 5″1 (and a half) and although I’ve never had a problem with my height, I definitely have had to learn what does – and doesn’t – work for my wardrobe.

Add to that I now have a young baby, means I pretty much surrendered to the fact I can’t wear heels every day!

But after lots of trial and error and talking to my lovely customers who have similar issues I’ve come up with some tips for you petite ladies.

THE KEY TO REMEMBER IT’S All ABOUT PROPORTION..

There are so many ‘rules’ in fashion that a lot of women labour under the misapprehension that they can’t wear stripes, crop trousers or even maxi dresses. Not so, in my opinion.

With hemlines – generally a petite woman will opt for a length that hits just below the knee as opposed to mid calf, however it’s always best to try things on and make sure that your top half balances the bottom half – whatever your shape, showing off your waist – cinching with a belt will even you out, but equally if you’re slender – a looser top will still work – try to ‘bag’ it a little to disrupt the sense of a column.

A-LINES CAN BE YOUR FRIEND

For curvier and bustier girls it’s key to balance out proportion – a fitted top or empire line that emphasises the waist works well with an a line skirt.

KEEP IT FITTED...

Long, overtly shapeless dresses will make you look shorter but a maxi dress that fits neatly up top falling away into a long skirt can be super flattering – make sure the dress is a petite fit so the body of the dress falls to the waist and not below.

 FIND A TAILOR STAT 

Always consider sourcing a great tailor as you may find the perfect jacket, trousers or top etc that needs the tiniest tweaking to ensure the perfect fit. Baggy sleeves and lose waistlines on jackets can swamp. It’s all about fit.

I recommend Jeff at EXPRESS ALTERATIONS on Clarendon Street, Dublin 2.