How to Understanding Petite Sizing In Ladies Clothing

Understanding Petites sizing can be tricky for any woman. You may have problems fitting into tops, blouses, trouser pants or jeans because you should be trying Petite sizes and not even know it.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Know your height
• Patience
• Time to try on clothing

1. 
    

   In my line of work I dress women, like you, on a daily basis. I see the frustration and anxiety a woman feels while having to try on clothing. Women come in all shapes and sizes and as a good rule of thumb while clothing shopping, you should always TRY ON to get the best fit for your specific body type.

2. 
    
   How tall am I?

   The problem with Petite sizing is the connotation that goes along with the actual word PETITE. Most women view Petite's as not only a short woman, but also a very small-framed woman. In ladies clothing this is not the case. In ladies clothing, the manufacturers label, Petite really is based on a women LENGTH, or HEIGHT, not her size around.

3. 
    

   Petite clothing should fit women who are between 4'9" to 5'3" in height. Manufacturers do offer Petite clothing from sizes 0 to sizes 30WP (Women's/Petite). Being able to find Petite labeled clothing in sizes 12 - Plus can be difficult. Some clothing labels that you could try in these size ranges would be Talbots, New York & Company, Lands End, or Eddie Bauer. Often clothing ordered exclusively through catalog will offer petite sizing.

4. 
    

   If you are a woman who is short-waisted or shorter through the torso, try out some Petite labeled tops. If you have shorter legs or you measure 5'3" or less, you should absolutely be trying on Petite bottoms. You may discover that the Petite label is a perfect compliment to your body size. Don't forget to check out some of my other articles about putting outfits together as well!

Tips & Warnings

• Have the time and patience while shopping
• Have a friend come along and help
• Don't hesitate to ask the sales staff to measure you correctly to ensure fit

[kgraham344]

on 11/30/2009 I am 4'11''! And about 120 lbs. Petite, and sometimes juniors is the only way for me to buy! I usually wind up cutting the bottoms off of my jeans just to make them fit! In the end, I hate to shop! Thanks for the article!

[MyJB]

on 11/12/2009 Great article on the petite lady. 5*

[askapeach]

on 10/30/2009 This is a great explanation of petite sizing. I have had issues with this and agree with your tip to always try something on before buying it! Thanks for an informative article. 5*

[2besure]

on 10/12/2009 Great information of petite clothes sizing.