This blog is my attempt to explore the confusing world of styling a short-waisted hour glass figure...the size they like to call "Petite." Not the best name because many of us are NOT petite but simply short-waisted and over the size 5'3" or 5'4" that is usually stated as "Petite." So this blog is for those of us taller, but still have an hourglass figure. 

THE TRUTH ABOUT PETITE SIZING

Many of us have found out by trial and lots of error, that just seeing "petite" on a label is not a guarantee that it will really fit us. Many low end labels don't bother to "retool" their patterns for true petite sizing...(I probably don't have to tell you this) but it is annoying when you discover that the top is short, but still too large on the top...they just wacked off a couple of inches from the bottom. You've also found that the long sleeves are bracelet length and the 3/4 sleeves are elbow length...oh and don't forget the petite turtleneck that is practically cutting off the blood supply to your face!

On the other hand, with the popularity of tunics, even some petite tunic tops are too long and hang down past your crotch! Here's hoping the tunic style runs its course soon!

As for buying missus sizes and having them tailored, you might get away with it if all you have to have done is shorten the sleeve length. But unfortunately, most times you'll discover that you'll still look like a "fullback" in a missus sized jacket with that ugly extra horizontal pleat of fabric across your mid back and the extra room on the top shoulder seam. Too expensive to have the whole garment tailored!...you'll double your investment. 

It's disappointing I know to see a great jacket in the missus section but not find it in the Petites. That's where you just have to say "NO!" and move on. No point in buying something that doesn't begin to fit you properly. Curating those labels that DO have REAL petite sizing is important and I'll get to that.

Of course if you're over 5'4" then you shop in the missus section for pants, and probably for so called "high rise" or "mom jeans" pants. A mid rise turns out to be a hip hugger and gap in the back for most of us. Again with all jean brands, it's truly trial and try on...there doesn't seem to be any one brand that you can trust to deliver the same cut time after time...

More in my next blog on brands that have worked for me.