- Many chain specialty stores have petite clothing for women over 50, in-store or on their websites. Ann Taylor and Banana Republic both carry petite clothing in their retail stores and provide clothing that is appropriate for work and special occasions. Ann Taylor Loft offers weekend wear and chic casual wear in petite sizes. All three stores have modest designs that are appropriate and fashion-forward for the woman over 50.
- Sears, Macy's, Dillard's and other nationwide department stores have ample petite clothing departments, with everything from casual to career wear. The selection can be overwhelming, so arrive armed with a list of things you would like to purchase. You can be as general or specific as you like; the list's intention is to keep you on track when you might have too many options to choose from.
- Cable TV programming such as the Home Shopping Network, QVC and The Shopping Channel regularly feature women's clothing in petite sizes. They will often provide exact measurements of a garment online or mention them on air. If you aren't comfortable with ordering from a shopping channel, check out the channel's website, where you'll be able to peruse entire collections at your own pace.
- Online shopping provides you with many options you may not have in brick-and-mortar stores. Sites such as petiteclothesandshoes.com have modest yet stylish clothing for the woman over 50. Online sites by regional retailers such as Christopher & Banks make collections more accessible if you are not near an in-store location. Online stores usually provide measurement information alongside the item you're browsing, which means you have a solid idea of whether the garment will fit correctly.
- A relationship with a good tailor is the petite woman's best bet. A tailor can alter anything so it fits correctly. He can re-create seams and hems that are identical to those in the original piece, and can even implement darts to create a more flattering silhouette. You can get referrals from managers at stores such as Banana Republic, which contracts with local tailors to do its alterations. A tailor can be expensive, so it's best to start with a key wardrobe of four to eight pieces you wear regularly and build from there.
