The trends to try this season, plus a few tips for getting the proportions right.
Fall trends are here, but not every trend translates perfectly to a petite frame. That doesn’t mean you have to skip them. It’s about achieving the right proportions.
Here are 5 fall trends I’m loving and how I’d approach them as a petite woman.
Flare and bootcut jeans
A great pair of flare or bootcut jeans can be very flattering on a petite frame. The key is getting the rise, length and overall proportions right.
Too much fabric pooling at the bottom can overwhelm your frame, while the right inseam creates a long, clean line. A rise that sits at the right point on your waist can also make a big difference in how the entire silhouette comes together.
Neutrals and warm, earthy shades
Shades like chocolate brown, burgundy, olive and rust are classics for fall.
Whether you go for a monochromatic look or simply add one warm-toned piece to an otherwise neutral outfit, these colors are an easy way to bring a little more of a fall feel into your wardrobe.
Unique prints and patterns
Checks and plaids, dark florals and abstract prints are all making an appearance this fall.
Whether you prefer something classic or a little more unexpected, adding a unique print can be a fun way to bring more personality to an outfit or make a simple look more visually interesting.
Straight leg and relaxed fit denim styles
Straight leg and relaxed fit silhouettes continue to be popular, and these styles can give you that effortless feel without overwhelming a petite frame.
If your jeans have more volume, pairing them with a more fitted or streamlined top can help keep the overall look balanced.
Layering
Fall is the perfect season for layering, and for petites, the key is being intentional about it.
Instead of piling on multiple oversized pieces, try keeping one layer more fitted or structured. Whether it’s a classic leather jacket or a long trench coat, the right outer layer can pull an outfit together while still keeping your proportions balanced.
And if you’re looking for petite-friendly pieces to start building your fall wardrobe, explore our latest styles designed with petite proportions in mind.
2 comments
@Dulcinea Thank you! I completely agree that proportions are such an important part of what makes a pair of pants truly petite.
I actually just published a new post that goes into more detail on inseam length, rise and knee placement, and how each of these plays a role in designing pants with petite proportions in mind.
As for hemming regular jeans, shortening the inseam doesn’t change other proportions of the garment, such as the rise or knee placement. So while hemming can help with length, it doesn’t necessarily make a regular pair of jeans fit like a true petite pair.
And that’s also why I wouldn’t assume that every pair of pants labeled “petite” is proportioned the same way. It’s worth checking the actual measurements and looking at how the garment is constructed, rather than relying on the word “petite” alone.
Love the article. I hope in future posts you will discuss the importance to us petites of proportions. You mentioned rise and inseam, and I’d like to hear about knee placement. Also wondering if these proportions are problematic if I get a regular pair of jeans and hem them. Do all “petite” pants get the proportions right, or are they just a scaled down version of the pants that taller women wear?