How to Appear Taller When You’re Petite With Short Legs
I am very short (4ft, 11inches) and have short legs. What can I wear to make myself look taller and long legged? (Nantwich, Cheshire, England)
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The trick to create the illusion of longer legs is to draw the eye upwards. Keep to well-fitting, streamlined clothing. Again, favor matching or monochromatic colors that do not create a body variance. Opt, for natural waist pants or skirts are a slight bit fuller in the tush and upper thigh to visually lengthen the lower torso. If you have great legs, keep your hemline short.
Here’s a no-brainer: avoid super flat shoes and, instead, select a low to mid size heel height. Always be sure that your pants break over your shoe instep to create the illusion of a longer leg.
Stay away from anything extremely tight that emphasizes the break between your butt and thighs. Over-sized clothing will only drown you. Avoid low-waisted or hiphugger pants that lengthen the torso. Just be sure that your clothes and accessories create a tonal, fluid appearance and you’ll look great.
–January 8, 2003