I have never done anything like this but I am extremely thrilled to provide my comments and opinions on trends in the petite world of fashion.
Here is the inside scope on MyAStyleS:
Age: 26
Height: 5'1/2
Style: Classy-Chic, is how I would describe my style and wardrobe. Shoes are important. In my opinion, you can tell a lot from someone's shoes. I take classic pieces and pair them with funky accessories and/or shoes.
Favorite Piece(s): I would have to say my red 3.5 inch round toe, Naughty Monkey, shoes, and for the summer season, my yellow jelly shoes (thanks Christa), and my Rock'N'Republic jeans.
Shops: I like supporting Canadian based designers. Currently, I am enjoying clothes from Bedo, a Montreal based clothing store. However, I have to say, I tend to drive down to Seattle, to do most of my shopping.
Wedding Dress: My wedding dress was a replicated Elie Saab creation. It featured a plunging V-neckline with sheer netting with hand sewen crystal beads. My evening gown/2nd dress, was a replicated Emanuel Ungaro creation. The features on this dress: sweet heart neckline and an empire waist, it was also open from midcalf. I paired both dresses with Silver strappy, Chinese Laundry shoes and simple diamond and pearl earrings, and a pearl necklace.
I am really excited to be part of PF. I look forward from hearing from all you petite readers.
It was a pleasure meeting Benita at the Holt's on Thursday. We sat and had great discussions on the petite world of fashion and why she developed her line. Benita is the designer and proprietor of House of Hsueh, a label who's emphasis is on bringing the average (<5'4") figure into the spotlight. You notice how I said average... that's because as Benita pointed out, 5'4 IS AVERAGE. She doesn't plan on marketing her new line as petite because she believes that it should fit the average woman. She doesn't want to limit the amount of ladies who look at her line because they may not consider themselves petite. Benita has a style all her own, to me it's like grown up street-wear that you could wear to the office. Her unique designs will appeal to the youthful and modern professional woman, they are completely multi functional and multi-use. Her designs are inspired by the idea of world travel, executive airport lounge aesthetic, and the functional yet designer style of stewardess attire. Everything is handmade limited editions of one of a kind items in new and vintage fabrics. Incase, you're not sure what "handmade" means (I didn't), it means that that same person sews that garment from start to finish, with a machine not with a needle and thread. To make her designs that much sweeter, everything is made in Canada.
WHAT ARE YOU WEARING? Benita wore a top and capri from her collection and accessorized with leather earrings from her collection. I wore a wrap dress from Forever 21 (FYI, Toronto ladies one just opened at Yonge & Dundas Square) and hoop earrings from H&M.)
HEIGHT 5'0
HER STYLE Mod-wearable, no bubblegum colors. She's inspired by the 50's & 60's, think coifed & elegant not hippie. She is inspired by aspects of the Space Age in the 50's and she loves Jackie O. She travels a lot and she likes her clothes to look great when she gets off the plane and you can see these features in her designs.
WHAT SHE'D WEAR TO THE ACADEMY AWARDS She'd dress Mod, in one of her designs and she'd choose red or orange.
SHE SHOPS Benita loves small Toronto boutiques and her favs are; Nathalie-Roze + Co and Belinda's Boutique, these shops also sell her line. She finds great vintage items at Estate sales, she loves the way that vintage clothing was made by hand and how people took care of their clothes.
DREAM PURCHASE A Chanel suit.
SHE NEVER LEAVES HOME WITHOUT Wearing a great pair of earrings.
WARDROBE ESSENTIALS A Cocktail dress, great Shoes with a comfy heel and 3/4 length jacket.
ON HEIGHT She has found her height to be an advantage in most aspects of her life. She thinks that she can get away with more because people don't see you as a threat. In the corporate world it's very difficult to get past the cute factor and get people to take you seriously. In her experience people thought she looked too young and it took her a while for people to take her seriously.
FASHION GRIPES She doesn't shy away from capris like post petites, but thinks heels are needed when wearing them.
ADVICE Wear what ever you want, just have it fit proportioned to your body.
Shop House of Hsueh online by clicking the title or visit her site.
I am thrilled is in introduce you to Mya (5' 1/2), PF's newest contributor. She has an ever changing style, which will make for fresh style advice and interesting posts. She likes to take classic pieces and mix them up with "something fun". Accessories are a necessity for her, you'll never find her without a great pair of earrings or a necklace. Mya confesses that she is a "Shoeaholic" and feels that whatever she's wearing, her shoes are the most important piece of her outfit. Her philosophy: "shoes can either make or break your outfit". Mya will be exploring all things petite from shopping to celebs.
I know I'm excited to hear what she has to say! She's got style! I really hope she reports on how she put this gorgeous look together for her wedding, what a pretty bride.
Look what I found on eBay! Size: xs Currently at $31.00 13 hours 12mins left
Ships to: Worldwide
So far, I have bought 4 C&C California dresses this summer (from Ebay). They're perfect for all shaped petites, they're casual day dresses that feel like you're wearing your pajamas but, make you look like a movie star. For size petites that are smaller then a size 0, buy the xs and wash it in warm/hot water and dry it the first time. They will shrink just enough to give you a more fitted look.
VAN CLEEF & ARPELS NECKLACE Reese Witherspoon (5'2) loves the classic Alhambra link necklace so much that she has it in three colors, including this black onyx version that she's worn all over L.A.
Africa has been getting more attention thanks to Oprah, Bono and many others. Any product whose proceeds go to help relieve suffering in this beautiful continent, I get excited about and want to support. These two T-shirts in many other colors and styles are available for purchase by clicking on the images.
(Mali, West Africa 2004)
The Omni Peace Tee in the newest item that is part of Signorelli’s campaign to change the world, one wearer at a time. Signorelli has teamed up with the Millennium Promise Project to eliminate poverty worldwide by 2025. As a consumer, you have the choice to make a difference – and you can, simply by wearing this shirt and spreading the word. This tank makes a great gift and features the peace sign with Africa-shaped palm in black. The tank has an inspiring message screen printed inside, and 100% of the proceeds benefit the Millennium Promise Fund.
The Divinely Dress features a jewel neckline. Made of 100% organic rayon. The princess seams are slimming and the shoulder straps allow you to wear your favourite bra. A wonderful dress for warm weather occasions. $150
You can buy this dress and other Petite Plus styles on Generous Fashions by clicking the title. Browse through the selection for petites. You probably won't love it all, but there are a few great finds mixed in with some duds. I'll let you be the judge.
Let me know what you think and other great sites to buy petite plus size garments.
At a New York City gala recently, Kelly Ripa (5'3) glowed in the same red-sashed Valentino gown Salma Hayek (5'2) showed off in Cannes two summers ago.
Two very different shaped petites, who suites this dress better?
If you live in Canada then I'm sure you're familiar with Reitmans. They offer 4 categories in sizes; Women, Encore 14+, Petites and Petites 14+. While it sounds like that covers just about every woman, they forgot someone. If you're a petite woman say under 110 pounds you'll have a very hard time finding anything that fits in the petite selection and the regular size (Women) will be like shopping anywhere else.
I'll still celebrate Reitmans though, because they're great for every other petite, who's not a size 0 or 2. If you're 5'3 and under shop either from the Petites or Petites 14+ depending on your size. The selection's great and the prices are affordable. Soon, you'll be acting like one of those ladies from the commercials. I LOVE those commercials. *Click the title to bring you to their site to view the collections, the TV ads and lots more!
Perfect Black Splendid Mini for these warm months. Jersey tube dress with elastic banding at top hem and 14 button closure at front. Drawstring and ruching at waist and patch pockets at hip. This looks so easy and carefree to slip on for day or night. This will work well on petites because of the vertical detail of the snap closures, also the cut and colour will flatter most skin tones and body shapes.
I'm trying hard not sing Shania Twain right now, incase you're not familiar the title is one of her songs. I realized that the items in my closet that make me feel the most comfortable and confident also make me feel most like a woman. To me this means I feel most like myself when I'm wearing these items, I carry myself a little differently, more gracefully. As a petite it feels amazing when you're wearing the clothes, not the other way around. Like Coco Chanel said "the closest thing to being naked is being well dressed".
Here are the items that make me feel this way:
1. A wrap dress 2. Most day dresses 2. Pearl earrings 3. The best white shirt 4. Heels that are comfortable 5. A pashmina 6. A great white dress shirt 7. Perfectly fitted dress pants
Its summer and we all know how important it is to have a pedicure. But sometimes it gets a little busy and we can’t always make it. If your heels get a little dry try using GLYSOMED Hand Cream (found at Shoppers Drug Mart). Warm it up in your hands and rub it on your heels. Then put on some spa socks.
This works best when you exfoliate your feet first and before bed. That way when you wake up in the morning you will have soft, smooth heels.
If you have any beauty questions you can e-mail me at velangeline@gmail.com!
"The Ugly Betty star went on the prowl in her leopard Nanette Lepore dress during a recent trip to N.Y.C, while the soon-to-be married actress showed off her spots while appearing on the Martha Stewart Show earlier in the spring."
Jodi's the most petite "Petite Professional" I have interviewed. Although, we didn't get out the measuring tape, she's about 5'1. Regardless of her height, this PF carries herself with confidence and grace. She is sunny, warm and exudes the strength of being an independent business woman. Jodi Foreman of Jode, designs primarily semi precious jewelry but her talents don't stop there. Her designs are "statement pieces" and works of art with the best canvas being a bare neck, wrist or finger.
I arrived at her studio on a sunny Sunday morning in the Annex (Toronto). Her studio matches her personality and style which is colorful and bright.
What She's Wearing Her hat is from H&M. The pants are either from Fairweather or Suzy Sheer (she can't remember) Her top is from the Canadian label, Fairy Pajama / Ethical Clothing. The boots (her pride and joy) are from winners.
Style Like the tag-line for her designs "be authentic" her style is unique. She wears what makes her feel great, she's no slave to fashion.
Most Memorable Fashion Moment Her first fashion memory was when she was a child and her parents always wanted to dress her in fancy designer clothes. The only problem was, that they were so fashionable that they were ahead of their time and she always felt out of place. While all the other kids were sporting jeans, Jodi was wearing haute labels like "Parachute" and the clothes were designed like the name, wide and flowy like a parachute. I wish I had a picture, she was probably adorable.
Academy Awards For this black tie affair Jodi would choose to stand out with something different, her choice in color would be "blood red". She would definitely accessorize with one of her "statement pieces" like the one below.
Shopping Jodi loves to buy unique pieces, but she also loves a bargain. Her stores of the moment are Winners and Costa Blanca. She also picks up great pieces at Toronto's Clothing Show. If she were heading south of the border she would make a stop at Chico's.
Shopping Spree With an unlimited clothing budget she would pick up some great summer dresses that fit her perfectly. She'd also make stops at her favorite Toronto shops, Risque and Fashion Crimes.
Her Accessory Of The Moment A headband which can also be worn as a scarf or belt (one of her designs).
Work Style If she's at a jewelry party for women she'll dress more sophisticated but, if she's throwing a girls jewelry party she'd dress like a princess with a tiara and lots of crystals.
Wardrobe Essentials Jodi has an amazing figure and I'm glad that she flaunts her petite frame in sexy little tops and tanks. Like many of us jeans are a staple for her and one of her fav's are her Silver jeans. Many of her pants are from Costa Blanca, because she has a lot of luck there.
On Height Jodi loves her height and doesn't shy away from dating taller guys either. While she is totally confident and loving being petite now, as a child she felt a little insecure and awkward. She was quick to add that her insecurity as a child could of had nothing to do with her height, just a growing up thing.
Advice To Fellow PF's "DO WHAT YOU LOVE", she says and think about the people you're helping or making happy with your product or service. Great advice Jodi!
I want to hear from you and all the readers out there, about why you love being petite. Either leave a comment or email me with a photo of you so I can post some of the responses.
Since, I love dresses so much for petites. Each week I will find a great dress that will flatter many PF's. Here's my first pick, I think I need this for my weekend trips to the Harbourfront...
The One Pocket World Top in Enamel is a nautical inspired top made from soft terry material. The top features a tube neckline with gold grommets that hold the rope-like navy and white straps. A zip front pocket lies below the neckline and circular pockets with buttons are placed below the waist. A tie in the back adds extra detail to this great piece by LaRok.
The length of the dress will elongate your legs and the empire cut will give you a longer look. This cut will work on both busty and small chested petites. Curvy petites don't shy away from this in fear of looking preggers, because it's more of A-line then babydoll so, it shouldn't give that effect. Also the rope detail that hangs down the front is vertical, so it's slimming.
Click the image to bring you to CoutureCandy to view more images.
Maureen Donohue from the jewelry company Splendid has produced these stretch Rose Quartz bracelets in conjunction with the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Fifty percent of our purchase has been donated to the Komen Foundation.
Comes in an ivory colored nylon drawstring bag with a card from the Susan G. Komen Foundation.
And it only cost $11
I know there are a million charity items out there to buy, but this one really cauht my eye. I like when it's a great bracelet first and the design wasn't an after thought. Why can't you give to charity and still look fab?
Hey fellow petites! Petite Fashionista.com now has a facebook group. I see what all the fuss is about! So, join today! Just click on the link above. It's a public group so you don't need an invite. There's not much going on yet, but soon you will be able to network with petites all around the world and we can discuss anything and everything related to being petite. See you on Facebook soon!
1. With gold accessories and shoes, it could be so glam for night. 2. With a clear lucite necklace and earrings worn with clear jelly flats. 3. Worn over my denim skinny walking shorts, with a pewter waist cincher, silver hoop earrings and heels. 4. With flip-flops, a long pendant necklace and a pony tail.
If I were chilly on a Summer night, I would throw on a...
1. Cropped denim jacket or 2. White linen wrap
This color can be worn on most skin tones because it has the warmth of pink and the cool undertones of purple.
Summer is here! The sun is shinning, the birds are singing, and a gentle breeze is caressing your skin. But wait. You’re also sweating bullets! What do you do when your make-up is coming off as fast as you can blot?
Primers. Your face is like a blank canvas. You want your make-up to look flawless after work, just as it did when you first put it on in the morning. Using a primer (like Laura Mercier’s Foundation Primer) helps to smooth skin texture, including larger pores and fine lines, and it helps keep your make-up on your face all day long.
Primers can come in a lotion consistency, and go on clear and smooth. You apply a primer after your skin care routine, and before your regular make-up routine. There are face primers as well as eye shadow primers.
Skin primers can also be found in moisturizers like Bobbi Brown’s Vitamin Enriched Face Base. This allows you to skip a step in your make-up application. Make sure you don’t use a skin cream with primers on your eyes unless it is made specifically for your eyes. Also if you do decide to pick-up this cream, use a pea size amount and warm it up between your fingers to break it down, and than apply it to your face and neck.
A primer is a good idea not just for summer, but all year long. It will help your make-up look fabulous, and it will last all day!
I always want to blog about these famous petites but, more often then not their looks are a little to goth or bag lady for my tastes. Lately to my surprise they have been wowing me, for their last 4 major events they have dressed elegant and glamourous. Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen (both 5'2) are not only appealing to my tastes, but also to the rest of the fashion world with another new line called "Elizabeth and James", named after their younger siblings. Unlike the other line they just launched called "Row", this line will be more affordable starting at $40. I have a strong feeling that this will be very popular, because they've done a a lot of experimenting with their wardrobes in the past few years.
Dear Christa, Whenever I want to buy a pair of jeans, I feel discouraged because it is really hard for me to find jeans that fit my bottom half. I'd love to wear jeans more often but finding the right fit somehow seems impossible. I was hoping you could help find a good pair of jeans for petite girls like me who have a much bigger bottom half. Thank You, ELLE
Dear Elle, I suggest that you check out Apple Bottoms jeans. They are made for more curvaceous women and depending on your size, they also come in "plus size". They are not labeled "petite" but, the inseam is only 33 inches. Which means they should fit someone between 5'2 wearing a slight heel to someone 5'4 in flats (depending on the length of your legs).
Hi Christa,
I saw you on Shaw cable when you were down in winnipeg. Question is I am very, very, tiny. I weigh about 95 pounds and I am 5"2. I have a really hard time finding jeans that fit my butt! I went all over winnipeg looking for jeans last week and found nothing can you please tell me what is a good jean company that well fit my legs and butt right. I checked out the joes jeans website although I don't think you can shop on there it looks like its just a fashion show type of thing.
Thanks so much. Marita
Hi Marita, I suggest that you check out Joe's Jeans which is described in detail in the post below with info on where to buy. Also, the skinny leg style by Abercrombie won't need to be hemmed and they'll fit your small frame for sure. Hope this helps!
Thank you for all the mail Winnipeg! I'm feeling the love!
Wedding Dress: My wedding dress was a replicated Elie Saab creation. It featured a plunging V-neckline with sheer netting with hand sewen crystal beads. My evening gown/2nd dress, was a replicated Emanuel Ungaro creation. The features on this dress: sweet heart neckline and an empire waist, it was also open from midcalf. I paired both dresses with Silver strappy, Chinese Laundry shoes and simple diamond and pearl earrings, and a pearl necklace.
