When you're on the shorter side, it might feel a bit tricky to find gorgeous petite clothes for over 50s but we're here to help. Whether you're on the hunt for flattering dresses for mature women or the perfect pair of jeans, we've rounded up clothes that will make you look and feel fabulous.
What counts as petite clothing?
Petite tends to refer to people who are 5'3" and under in height. Clothing in petite sizing is worth looking out for as it is cut proportionately shorter than standard sizes to create the ideal fit for you.
Petite clothes for over 50s tips
Sarah Ryan, The Style Coach and instructor at Goldster, shares her top tips.
Monochrome - Wear the same colour head-to-toe to elongate the body. Be sure to avoid high contrasting belts in the middle which will break the flow of the colour. Keep everything within the same hue.
Neat fitting fabrics - Oversized, billowy fabrics can swamp the petite figure. Opt for neater-fitting garments that sit close to the body.
Print size - Prints should be kept in proportion with the overall frame. If you are petite and slim, choose small prints. If you are petite and curvy you can go slightly larger with your print. Very large prints can look out of place.
Long lines - Whether it is a vertical stripe in a print or long vertical lines created by a coat worn open, this will help elongate the body.
Petite clothes for over 50s
Best knee-length dress
www.boden.co.uk
Looking for a comfortable dress that will actually sit above your knee? This versatile style ticks that box. It's perfect for wearing with tights and ankle boots during colder spells.
Pros:
Has pockets
Cons:
The price
Review: "So happy to find a great dress in a petite size. As I am only 5' 2", regular size dresses are too long for me. The one is a very flattering fit, and ends just above the knee - perfect!"
Best straight-leg jeans
www.wallis.co.uk
Everyone needs a good-fitting pair of jeans in their wardrobe to make them look and feel great, and that's exactly what these petite straight leg jeans from Wallis will do. They're available in five different washes and have a tiny bit of stretch to them for your comfort.
Pros:
Available in different washes so you can stock up if you like the fit
Cons:
Some people may prefer a different-fitting jean
Best smart trousers
www.wallis.co.uk
Looking for a smarter trouser option? From work to weekend, these trousers will have you covered for every occasion. We love the gold button detailing on the waist.
Pros:
Can be dressed up or down
Cons:
Some people may prefer a non-tapered style
Best roll-neck jumper
www.marksandspencer.com
A roll-neck jumper is essential for your winter wardrobe. This one from M&S is crafted using cotton and a hint of wool to give it a cosy, gentle feel on your skin. Pair with your favourite jeans and trainers for effortless, casual styling. Available in red and navy.
Pros:
Relaxed fit
Cons:
Print may not be in proportion with smaller, petite frames
Review: "Love a nautical style jumper and this red and cream version hits the spot! Comfortable to wear and a great length. Looks great with jeans, cream trousers or denim skirt and trainers/boots."
Best longline coat
www.johnlewis.com
Want a long coat that isn't going to swamp your small frame? This is a great option from Hobbs. It's both practical and stylish, with generous padding to keep you warm, and finished in a gorgeous green colour which is just perfect for this time of year.
Pros:
The length from the back neck to the hem is 87.5cm
Cons:
Has a high neck which some might not be keen on
Best denim jumpsuit
www.seasaltcornwall.com
Something to wear as we transition to the spring-summer months. It's got a stylish, cropped wide leg design with handy side pockets as well as pockets at the back, plus a fabric waist tie to give you some shape around your middle.
Pros:
Made using organic cotton
Cons:
Some reviewers had to size up
Review: "This is a lovely, chic jumpsuit that can be worn on its own or with something thin underneath. I’m 5ft 2 and usually a size 8 petite in Seasalt but this was too tight across the bust, I’m a 32DD with a narrow back. The size 10 P is perfect in every way. I replaced the 2 buttons with white corozo buttons to elevaRead more about review stating Tres Chic!te the style..very Toast!"
Best wrap top
www.wallis.co.uk
Whether you've got a meal with a partner or drinks with the girls in the diary, this top will be perfect. We love the colour and the statement heart print. Wear with a pair of black jeans or trousers, heeled boots and a leather jacket for a cool but glam look.
Pros:
Flattering wrap detailing
Cons:
No reviews
8.
Silk Shirt
Best ivory shirt
www.boden.co.uk
A classic shirt is a wardrobe staple, and if you're looking for one that feels a bit more luxe, you'll adore this one from Boden. It's made from 100 per cent silk and is cut in a drapey, relaxed silhouette for chic styling. You can wear it loose over trousers or tucked into skirts.
Pros:
Length finishes at top thigh
Cons:
Hand wash only
Review: "Fits perfectly, looks beautiful on. I love it"
Best maxi dress
www.seasaltcornwall.com
You may think that because you're petite you can't wear long dresses, but you can! You just need to find one that's made for your height. Reviewers of this dress have found it to be the perfect length for their short frame. It can be dressed with trainers for days on the go or paired with boots and a statement necklace for evenings.
Pros:
Available in sizes 8-28
Cons:
Some reviewers would have liked it to have pockets
Review: "Love the colour and the print. I bought petite because I’m 5’ 3” and it’s a great length. Can’t wait for the weather to wear it."
Best midi dress
www.wallis.co.uk
Ideal for the office or if you're heading out for a night on the town, this dress will be sure to add a pop of colour to your winter wardrobe. It's got a flattering v-neckline and elastic around the cuffs and panels to the side for added comfort.
Pros:
Funky print
Cons:
Some people may prefer a shorter or longer dress
Petite clothes for over 50s FAQs
What's the difference between petite and standard sizing?
You may think that the difference between petite and standard sizing is just the length, but it's more than that. Many believe that it's just your legs are a bit shorter, however, petite people are mostly a bit shorter all over. Petite sizing adjusts everything proportionately, meaning the waist sits higher, the shoulders are narrower, and the sleeves are shorter as well as the inside leg. So this means you can find trousers and jumpsuits that actually finish at your ankles and jumpers and tops where the sleeves aren't hanging over your hands.
While you can absolutely still wear standard-sized clothing, choosing specific petite sizing for certain clothing pieces really does make a difference to how you look and most importantly, how something fits, so it's worth scouting out shops that sell petite clothing.
Find the best stores for petite women’s clothing
More and more brands are taking note of the struggles faced by petite ladies when they’re shopping for clothes, so they've now introduced petite clothing ranges. They've been designed to ensure all items and cuts fit how they should on petite figures.
If you'd like to shop for more garments than the ones we've included on our stylish petite clothes for over 50s list, here are just a few of our clothing collections.
Boden
Wallis
John Lewis
Debenhams
Seasalt Cornwall
ASOS
Dorothy Perkins