8 ways for a woman to look taller (that actually work)

Do you want to add a few inches and instantly look taller? With the right clothes you can. Here’s how.

1. Your pants should be a light colour, as it elongates the leg.

2. High heels are a big plus. To optimize the effect, match your shoe colour with your trousers to create continuity. A contrast between the two colours will shorten the leg line.

3. The right dress is your best asset. A dress in a solid colour or subtle pattern with a knee skimming hemline is simple but effective.

4. Don’t shy away from blazers and jackets. To create a longer line, jackets should be taken in for a snug fit that is tailored to your body’s measurements.

5. High-waisted skirts and pants will lengthen the look of your legs.

6. Obviously vertical patterns will help, but so will diagonal prints.

7. Wear anything with a V-neck.

8. Wear monochromatic colours and outfits as much as possible. When paired with a colourful accessory, the look will streamline your figure and draw attention to your best feature.

• Belts, especially wide styles. They look disproportionate on a short waist and will make you look even more petite. The only exception is an ultra skinny belt, worn on a high rise waist.
• Excessive jewelry around the neck.
• Tunics. These are ideal for flattering larger women, but on you will look like you’re wearing your boyfriend’s oversized shirt.
• High collars and turtlenecks.
• Layering. This will only add volume to your size and make you look heavier.
• “Baggy" pants, like palazzos, will make you look shorter.
• Bermudas on a small body are too long to look like shorts, but too short to look like capris.

• Of shoes with a round toe and ankle straps (like Mary Janes). They’ll draw attention to your legs, but not in a good way.
• Of tall boots, it’s better to opt for ankle boots.
• Scarves should be light and worn lengthwise, and not tied at the neck.
• Large and bold patterns will overpower your frame.

Scoff if you must, but petite is sweet. Clothing here is strategically designed to flatter women of a smaller stature, for example:

• You won’t have to alter your pants, as the inseam is perfectly proportionate to smaller sizes.
• Dresses will fit right and the waistline will be well positioned.
• Skirts (and dresses) will be the right length to give you an edge. Regular size knee skirts will always fall a little too low on petite legs.