Q. Can you give us size 4 shoe gals any new new new tips on places to buy shoes besides shoemall and zappos? Or, hints on what children's sizes work for a 4.0 or 4.5 shoe size? I love your site, just found it. It is wonderful.

Thank you so much.

Susan in Atlanta

A. Hi Susan!

Here are some great places to buy small shoes online:
Vintage Designer Clothing.com

petitefeet.com

Shoes.com

cinderellaofboston.com****

millershoes.com

shoedini.com

dance4less.com
"Character shoes" are offered ast this website, in sizes all the way
down to 3 and 1/2 (in medium width), 4 & 1/2 for narrow width. If
you’re not familiar with this type of shoe, they’re usually pretty
good for dancing (swing dancing etc), comfortable to walk around in.

store.nordstrom.com
If you want to actually look at the shoes before you buy, Nordstrom
offers a selection in size 4.

In Children's sizes you should be either 2, 2.5 or 3 depending on the brand.

A Few Brands that start at sz.4 and great kids shoes:

Stuart Weitzman
Mephisto
Naot
Birkinstock
Ferragamo
Nine West Kids
Nina Kids
Kenneth Cole Kids
Diesel Kids
Geox Kids


If you live in Toronto I LOVE Varello
They're located at Yonge & Eglinton.

Let us know how your shoe search goes!

A great addition to the pinking shears post came in via Facebook. Here's what Kristina has to say:

Christa,
To follow up on what Lucy wrote about the pinking scissors..you can use those scissors then hem up your pants without a sewing machine...the stuff is called "Stitch Witchery". It is heming tape that you iron on, it keeps the hem up (easy directions on the package). This tape comes in different weights so you can probably use it to hem up jeans too! My mom has done several of my work pants with the regular weight tape and it works great (I've had the pants for 3 years...through the washer and everything)! You can buy the tape at Wal Mart or where you buy fabric (fabric stores). An additional use for this tape is to use it to mend holes or tears in clothing by getting a similar piece of the material/patch that matches the piece of clothing with the hole and then you put the material(underneath) stitch witchery(underneath)clothing and iron as per directions on package.
I just thought it may be an interesting follow up to the pinking scissors blog on your website.
Take Care
Kristina

Like many of you reading this blog, I love to shop. But, I also love to shop in different places to find unique items in small sizes, sounds like a small feat right? No, not really.

Here's where to shop:

* the following may require patience, time and a shopping buddy or stylist.

Consignment Shops/Thrift Stores/Vintage
At these places clothes are often already altered or if it's vintage (older then 20 years), many of the garments were actually made for petite women. The shoes in the picture below have been my favs this summer, they're so comfy, gorgeous and they're leather from Italy.....I bought them for $4! At Value Village

Chinatown/Asian Malls
Here, you'll find clothing to fit a slender petite. I've never bought anything that needed altering at these places. Like the outfit below, which I picked up for; $15 for the top, $5 tube top and $6 for the leggings.

As much as I like a bargain, it's important to mix high quality with low end (no matter what price you paid for it).

Besides the usual (key, wallet, cell phone) here's what's in my bag:

1. Tide to Go: This has been my saviour, especially after a morning coffee on the go.


2. A Lip-Gloss.
Currently: "Darling you look Fabulous" by Balmshell


3. A Lara Bar. This snack will keep you going and prevent a chocolate bar fix.


4. A Purse Size Book or Magazine.
If I'm not reading a soft cover at that moment, I'll see what peaks my interest that's in digest size.


5. Other essentials; note pad & pen, bobbie pins, gum, handcream and Purel.

What's in your bag, that keeps you fresh and functional all day long?

This is a petite fashion DO!

Rachel Bilson (5'3) looks like she just stepped out of the pages of a Fall Editorial Spread. She's the perfect example of how to wear wide leg jeans. She has made her legs look extra long, with the emphasis on her natural waist and casually peeking out are her killer platforms. I recommend platforms or heels with wide legs. She looks like a confident woman who is looks fabulous going about her everyday routine.

Also, wide leg jeans are great for PF's with larger busts, they will balance the curves on top, while making you look leaner.

I found the jeans! They are by:
Seven Jeans Ginger Denim Pant

A great tip came in from a reader, who referred me to a post on her blog. I think this could be very useful for more inexpensive pieces and around the house.

Here's what Lucy wrote on her blog:

"As a short person I often have to take my clothes for shortening or hemming. It takes money and effort, and sometimes for a cheap trendy piece it is not worth it. I found an alternative to save money and time.
This pinking scissor/shears cuts a zigzag or scalloped edge instead of a straight one. The edge is ravel-resistant, which means it won't fray. I also use it to cut the curtains because I am too lazy to set up the sewing machine. My curtains look stylish with this finish. So use it to cut your pants, jeans, skirts or sleeves etc. But I would not recommend it for high end or high quality garments."

Click the title to bring you to her blog: The Sophysticated & Sarcastic Soul
Petite, Beautiful and occasionally produces wise cracks

P.S So far I have used this idea for pj bottoms (who wants to hem pj's?)

Thanks Lucy!

At last, small bras designed by petites for petites!


Check out these bras for PF's with small chests! I love what they have to say about their designs:

"Just because we're small busted doesn't mean we don't have big bra dreams!"

Amen to that!

They're available in a wide range of sizes:
Sizes: 30A, 32AA, 32A, 32B, 34AA, 34A, 34B, 36AA, 36A, 36B, 38AA, 38A

Lula Lu Petite Lingerie answered the pleas for AA cups from the their customers, who were frustrated with the sizing of the AA cups currently out their. They found they were innacurate and too large.

To find the perfect sizing Lula Lu Petite Lingerie used a group of AA cup store customers to find the right fit of the bra cups.

“We wanted to be as accurate as possible when it came to the AA cups so we enlisted the help of our customers, who were more than happy to provide feedback,” comments Ellen Shing, owner of Lula Lu Petite Lingerie. “We were as frustrated as our customers because we couldn’t fit some of them with the existing AA cup styles on the market so we decided to make our own!”

The first collection of Lula Lu Petites includes three styles, two basic T-shirt bras and a more frou-frou one with lace. Bra sizes start at 30A and one of the styles even comes in a 38AA, an extremely hard to find size. T-shirt bras retail for $45- 48; lacey bra retails for $48. Matching panties and thongs are between $16 - 18 and come in sizes S, M and L.


Lula Lu Petite Lingerie is located at 212 E. 3rd Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94401. Store hours are Monday-Thursday from 11am to 6pm, Friday from 11am to 7pm and Saturday from 11am to 5pm. P 650-348-8858. Most styles can be purchased online at www.LulaLu.com.

Check out fellow PF, Shoshanna Lonstein (5'2) new collection for Fall.

Her designs include; dresses, underwear and swimwear - that can be worn by women who, like Lonstein herself, have a substantial bust and small waist.

I love her dresses this Fall, they will work great for many petites and they're gorgeous! Just pair either of these dress's with tights and boots for day and heels for night.

I'm so promiscuous when it comes to sticking to a hair stylist. I think I found someone great, then I wander into a new place "just to try a blowdry" and go to them a few times. When I realize it's been to long to go back to the old place, I move on again to somewhere new.
But, now I think I found someone I can stick with, his name is Vincent and with his team of assistants they will give you the smoothest, shiniest hair ever! I loved the blowdries so much that I moved up to color services and haircuts.

The 2 things that will keep me coming back; the prices (so cheap) and the scalp, neck and shoulder massage (included). You will leave there spending less the usual and looking & feeling amazing.


Highly Recommended:

See Fu Hair Studio
222 Spadina Ave #106
Toronto ON, M5T 3B3

Phone: 416-260-9994

If you use eye liner, line top lashes', or both top and bottom lashes' (for a more dramatic look).
If you only line the bottom lashes’ it makes you look tired and adds emphasis on dark circles.

I recently purchased a "Free Bra" to wear with strapless, halter, and backless numbers which were waiting to be worn in my closet. Being that I am very small chested, I could go out without a bra (since I don't need the support). Except, I just love the way it looks when I fill out a dress or top.

I could see this being even more useful if you actually NEED the support and you still want to wear all the flirty cuts and styles. I highly recommend this over a strapless bra, because it's more supportive, provides more cleavage and you don't have to worry about the back strap (or any other straps) showing.

How do they work? They are sticky silicone cups that you apply individually and then click together for extra cleavage (optional). They are forever sticky, but they don't rip off your skin or leave a sticky residue. If you get them dirty or full of lint you just rinse them in cold water and soap.

Anywoo, they're great but, I'm starting to sound like an informercial.

This retails for about $45-$50 at department stores and drug stores. I found them from a wholesaler in T.O for $30.


They come in sizes A, B, C. Let me know if you want a pair! They have expanded my wardrobe and my bust size!


Email me to order, free shipping

This vibrant blue is eye-catching whether you wear it as a full outfit, like Eva Longoria, or accent piece. If you want it to pop even more, pair it with black for more contrast.

What do all these PF's have in common?

Raised Hemlines & Raised Necklines

How do regular PF's adapt this style for the Fall?

Try opaque tights and keep the cleavage to a minimum!

Q: What length do you suggest if your legs are short but a bit plump.?

A: Take cue from petite starlets such as Salma Hayek (5'2) & America Ferrera (5'1)

Both ladies have chose (or their stylists chose) styles that end just above the knee in A-line cuts for a casual chic look. If you choose this length feel free to show a little cleavage. My golden rule is: If you're showing lot's a leg, raise the neckline and if you're showing lot's of cleavage lower the hemline.

PF's can do both!



Kelly Ripa in Sweetees




























Rachel Bilson in Alexander Wang






















We can elongate our looks with both lengths (as shown above). The only length we should avoid is anything that hits us mid calf, this will make our legs look short & stumpy :( instead of long & sassy :)

I came across this email from Who What Wear Daily and I noticed that what Gemma Ward is wearing here would be ultra flattering on every petite frame. I love every piece and wouldn't change a thing!

Would you pick this outfit or a variation?

So Frugalicious Writer Profile- Tressie


Hello petite fashionistas! I'm glad to be a part of your club. I am 5'0", and I'm constantly asked if I'm really 4'11". I could run a marathon in heels (if I was actually a runner of course). As you know, the average shopping excursion for a chic petite isn't always easy. We can't try on a pair of designer jeans without tucking in a foot of fabric to get an idea of what the jeans will look like. Trends don't always work with your body type because those flare jeans don't really flare as much when you have to hem the bottom half. Nordstrom never has any 5 ½ stilettos left, and petite clothes are often buried in the senior's section on the third floor of a department store. Luckily, the Petite Fashionista brings us daily tips to remind us that good things do come in small packages!



My blog, So Frugalicious , focuses on fashion and beauty products that are $25 or less. I'm certainly a budget conscience shopper so I wanted to share some tips for petite women with a tiny pocketbook.



Don't hop on the bandwagon for every trend.
Only choose trends that work best with your features. A trapeze dress will not give me the right shape and short shorts will add focus to my not so petite thighs. Stick to what works for you, not everyone else. You'll save money in the long run because the trends will be out next season anyway.



Don't fight the crowds looking for shoes in your size if you are a 5 or 5 ½.
You'll just get depressed that nothing is left in your size! Thankfully Payless and Target stock small sizes properly, especially if you visit their websites. I am extremely impressed by the selection and trend watching at both places. Plus, you will save yourself the hassle and the money. Shoe Shopping Tip: Avoid heels with straps around the ankles because they will shorten your legs.



Rely on Old Navy and dELiA's for inexpensive pants and jeans in your length.
These new trouser jeans from Old Navy are just as cute as the 20 similar pairs I tried on at Neiman Marcus, and they come in short length. I didn't find the size variations at the store, but their website has an amazing selection. dELiA's went past the ankle length sizing and added petite, and they fit beautifully!



Suck it up and go to the alterations shop.
I must admit that I truly hate getting my clothes altered. It's up there with laundry and going to the dry cleaners. Plus, who wants to spend $50 on a pair of pants and another $20 getting them hemmed. However, petite friendly shops like Unique Tailor in Dallas are charging only $5.00 to hem jeans, and they'll take care of it in an hour. It's also worth paying $7.00 to take up the straps in your favorite dress because you won't look sexy constantly pulling the top up.

Looking for an elgant pair of shoes? Look for satin shoes with jewlery or rhinestones like these Enzo Angiolini Red Satin crystal shoes. If the stones are too much for you, a nice bright Satin colored strappy sandal will give character to any outfit.




If there's one thing I most enjoy about fall, it's the selection of boots!! Boots are soo timeless and just soo versitile. I think boots are an essential piece to any women's wardrobe. Wether you're looking for a comfortable pair or looking for a more sophisticated pair of boots, they can easily take you from day to night!

The only advice I have for all you petites, is you need to be careful with the height of the boots. Because boots are usually designed for "average" height women, some of the styles are not flattering for us petites. I suggest when looking for boots, look for calves height boots, the height of the boots will be perfect for our petite legs. Make sure the boots hugs your legs and that there's no more than a finger space between your leg and the top of the boot.

I don't think these boots will be in stores yet, but I'm sure in the next 2-3 weeks you'll be able to locate something similar to these.

Town Shoes is a great Canadian shoe store, they carry everything from BCBGirls to JLo to Lacoste. Another favorite is of course Aldo. These stores has the most up to date trend in shoes, like the ones I have shown, for the fraction of the price. However, if you're looking for the real thing, check out Holt Renfrew!!

Petite Fitness Pants are available at Activa Sports

This outfit is by Adidas


They carry many brands and styles of pants that have a Petite 30" Inseam. Which means, that myself who's 5'2 can wear them without any alterations and they'd be the perfect length with my runners.

Activa dosen't turn away any size also carrying Tall sizes, Plus sizes and everything in between.

As most PF readers know, I often recommend accentuating your "natural" or "true" waist. I love dresses, blouses or skirts that highlight the smallest part of a woman's body and also it's the best way of elongating a petite frame. Another great item for this look, is the "waist cincher" we've seen it strongly for a few seasons now, but I think it can always be worn in a classic style.

Here's what's the latest and greatest according to 2 fashion insiders.

LLOYD BOSTON
author, Before You Put That On, and NBC Today Contributer

"This season you have many choices of a skirt silhouette and length that work for you: miniskirts with tights and opaque hose, longer skirts that are ankle skimming but full, and the pencil skirt. For women with hips, the A-line is always a friend, and there are plenty. A black patent wide belt spices up the little black dress you already own for very little cash"

CHRISTINE SCHWAB
author, The Grown-Up Girl's Guide to Style

"Geometric prints are everywhere, but to spend a lot on them is ludicrous: They're trendy they're faddish, they're reinvented retro. The minute they come off the runway, they're knocked off--look for them at very inexpensive stores."

Like this dress from Forever 21:

If there's one thing I like about the season's changing is how fashion changes. I enjoy fall, the summer heat is still there during the day but in the evening the air is crisp and the gentle breeze just sets the mood...in fashion that is!!!

Here are some of the latest shoe trends for fall!!

You can still wear your flats into fall, the only change is the added strap to make the shoes a little more sophisticated. These Marc Jacob shoes are great, they have the contrasting colors and added feminine touches, which will make any outfit!

These Capped shoes are great for the office or any night out. The color of the capped toe should pull your outfit together, I suggest to use these shoes to accentuate your outfit to add a little color or contrast!

These are just a sneak peek into what to look for!! More shoe trends to come!

For more great shoes from Marc by Marc Jacobs try these links:

Marc by Marc Jacobs Shoes Round Toe Sling Back Flat


Marc by Marc Jacobs Shoes Satin Flat

Last night, I went out for a bite on the lively King St. West restaurant strip with Cynthia C (writer, blogger and petite activist).
It was the first time I wore jeans this summer, it felt good being covered up for the slightly cool evening. I feel Fall and "Back to School Shopping" in the air. Even though, I'm not going "back to school" I still feel the desire to buy pretty stationary, notebooks and markers.

My entire outfit last night was such a bargain I realized as I took inventory of what I was wearing, Cynthia and I usually exchange info and where we bought everything. My top and shoes were from a Yard Sale across the street from my building where a hip fashionista was clearing her wardrobe, because she was moving to Halifax to open a boutique. The top and shoes totaled less then $10, tank is from American Apparel and my fabulous petite Provocateur jeans are by Joe Jeans.

Amongst all our talk about shopping I have all the stores mixed up in my head, she was giving me the rundown on her cross border shopping experience (check her blog by clicking the title). So, I can't remember where her outfit came from. "Cynthia darling, can you leave a comment about your outfit". xx

This week I will be doing a series of posts that will help us to build stronger wardrobes on a budget. So, check in daily and let me know what you're missing from your wardrobe and I'll try to find a petite version for a great price.

This trend is still around and I think it will be until at least the rest of this year. This look is NOT petite friendly, because it cuts off your leg and will make your legs look short & stumpy. This look can work; under pants where you can't see them, if you wore them with black tights or if they were a lighter color. It's about modifying the trends to suit your body, not copying them from the pages of magazines.

Readers: Do you agree? Have you worn them? Would you wear them?

Need I say more? 25 years in showbiz and Miss Kylie (5'0) is as radiant as ever! I love so many things about this dress, why do you think it works so well on her petite frame?

Jill Stuart Shoes
Maritime Ankle Strap Pump
These shoes are elegance with a touch of vintage inspiration.
Leather d'Orsay pump with removable ankle strap. 3.75" heel.

Original Price: $328.00
Sale: $164.00

As most readers already know, my favorite color of shoes is gold. It is a great neutral shoe and when wearing a skirt, shorts or dress they make your legs look fab!

Click here to go to shopbop.com!
You'll see all the sales menu, select "70% off" for a huge selection of discounted clothes and shoes. Many of which can easily take you into the Fall and Winter.