As someone who stands at just 4ft11, shopping for clothes hasn’t always been easy. Regularly you’ll find me turning the sleeves up on a jacket, chopping the hem off a pair of jeans, or, when I can convince my sewing machine-savvy mum to help, adding tucks into the waist of skirts and trousers to get the perfect fit.
In order to cut down on the need for these styling tweaks whenever possible, I tend to avoid main line collections and head straight to the petite section to shop for pieces specifically designed for those of us who are 5ft3 and under.
But, while some brands deliver exceptional petite options, others sadly fall short (excuse the pun) in terms of both styles and fit. So, here are my pick of the best petite brands on the high street, so us shorties can shop smarter and hopefully save some money on tailoring bills too.
ASOS
When I’m on the lookout for something new, no matter whether it’s a top, trousers or trench coat, ASOS petite is always my first port of call. Its own-brand selection is definitely one of the largest online – and that’s before you even get into the host of other petite brands it stocks.
My favourite thing about ASOS is that while most brands alter its designs for the petite section, for example a midi dress in the main line section will turn into a mini in petite sizes, ASOS rarely alter the styles, and as someone who tends to avoid mini lengths for fear of coming off “cute” this is a huge draw for me.
My one gripe is if you’re shopping for outerwear I’d always suggest sizing down. While a majority of the petite sizing is spot on, the coats and jackets run on the large side, even if they aren’t described as an oversized fit, so size down accordingly.
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Abercrombie & Fitch
The return of Abercrombie was one I never knew I needed, until I looked a little closer at the sizing, that is. You see, you’ll be forgiven if you didn’t even know Abercrombie had a petite section, as it isn’t signposted on their website or in store, but instead petite lengths are available across all the dresses, trousers and some additional pieces like coats as standard. This for me is a revelation as there’s no risk of falling in love with a style only to find out it doesn’t come in petite length.
Plus, if you’re in the market for jeans, it not only offers a ‘short length’ designed for people between 5ft-5ft3in but also an ‘extra short length’ for those under 5ft, which I’m a big fan of.
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Read more on petite fashion:
- I’m 5ft1 and these are my chic petite outfit ideas for elevating your wardrobe
- Meet the knitted dress: the only dress petite ladies need to know about this season
- The best new season trousers for petites
Warehouse
Warehouse is my go-to for smart tailoring and printed midi dresses, ideal for wearing to the office or when you want to feel put together. The petite offering is in keeping with the ethos of the brand ensuring pieces feel grown up, something that’s especially important if you’re on the petite side as, for me, too many frills and playful prints often lead to me getting mistaken for someone on work experience (it’s happened in the past and I dress to avoid it happening again).
Pieces are available in sizes 4-16, which isn’t the largest range, but they are true to size meaning you aren’t left guessing at what will work for you. Just order your usual size with the added bonus of petite length and fit tailoring.
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Topshop
RIP OG Topshop. It was one of the best high street stores for us petite gals so I was pretty devastated when they closed in 2021. Thankfully ASOS has continued the legacy and Topshop Petite is still going strong with on-trend pieces that have short heights in mind.
Topshop Petite is my go-to for more trend-led pieces like the It denim maxi skirt and chic cut-out dresses, but they also do great basics, like Topshop denim which will always be a classic.
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Reformation
Great petite occasionwear can be hard to come by, so if you’re looking for something to wear to a big event I’d suggest looking at a slightly higher price point in the form of Reformation’s petite section. Packed with pretty floral prints and luxe fabrics like silk and sustainable linen, the fits are sure to turn heads at spring weddings and garden parties.
And, if you’re not petite, check out Fashion Editor Krissy’s article here on the best new season pieces to buy from Reformation right now as well as some equally lust-worthy dupes if your shopping budget is smaller this season.
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Marks & Spencer
M&S is a high street stalwart for a reason and the brand’s diverse fashion offering has to be high up on the list of reasons why. While it may not be the most exciting, the petite collection is filled with classic cuts and timeless pieces, making it my go-to for staple styles like tailored trousers and simple knitwear.
I never regret a M&S purchase and they tend to last in my wardrobe season after season making them a great sustainable fashion choice too.
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