I am a petite size 6-8 in bottoms. And I can honestly say it is HARD to shop for skirts that don’t make me look even shorter, and/or that don’t make me look frumpy.
Here are my pros and cons when looking for skirts:
Pros:
- STURDY fabrics and structure. This will help accentuate your shape.
- Mid-thigh length for my petite girls is your best friend.
- If you are looking for a longer skirt, petite girls, look for one with a slit! It can be big or small, but this will help make your legs look longer :)
Cons:
- Good top structure, but falls flat at the bottom (see green skirt pictured).
- Nothing too high waisted. We want to keep our hourglass shape, so a perfect fit right at the dip of your waist is what you want.
📝Occasion: Corporate/Office
📝Fashion style: Business Casual Skirts
👀 Body shape: Petite Hourglass
👖Outfit details: Forever 21 and JCrew are the brands.
Additional tips: Look for skirts that have sturdier fabrics. This will help keep your figure the focus! Notice the first skirt pictured is thicker fabric, versus the second is thin.
... Read moreShopping for skirts as a petite hourglass can be a real challenge, especially when you want to maintain a balanced and flattering silhouette in a professional setting. Through my experience, I've found that prioritizing certain features in skirts can dramatically improve how your outfit looks and feels throughout the day.
One key insight is the fabric quality and structure. Sturdy fabrics like thicker cotton blends or structured knits help hold the skirt's shape and accentuate your waistline, which is crucial for hourglass figures. Soft, flimsy materials might seem comfortable, but they often lose shape quickly, leading to a frumpy appearance that hides your curves.
Length matters—a lot. Mid-thigh skirts have been my go-to because they strike the perfect balance between professional and flattering for petite frames. They prevent the 'shortening' effect that longer skirts can have unless those skirts include features like slits. Even a small side slit can elongate your legs visually, which is a game changer when you’re petite.
Waist placement is another factor I never overlook. Skirts that sit right at the natural waist—the narrowest part of your torso—do wonders for defining the hourglass figure. Avoiding high-waisted styles that rise above this point helps keep your proportions balanced and flattering.
Lastly, practical details enhance wearable style. I love skirts with pockets or elastic waists for comfort, but these details should not sacrifice the skirt's overall shape. For example, elastic waists can sometimes loosen the fit and obscure your waistline, so careful picking is important.
Pairing these skirts with tailored blazers and heels like boots or kitten heels completes the corporate chic look without overwhelming your petite frame. These tips have helped me feel confident and polished in my skirts at the office, and hopefully, they help you too!