Growing up as a short girl, well not that short maybe average height, I always wished I was taller. It seemed like everything in the fashion industry was designed for the taller ones and more painfully, shopping was a soul-crushing experience. It was difficult to find anything that fits my frame perfectly and whenever I did, it would always need a little amendment. You know how they say great things come in small packages? Well it's very true. I've grown to love my petite frame and looking back at all the times I went to bed at night praying for more inches, I couldn't be happier I stayed 5'1. Petite is the new cool that birthed midi skirts which became a trend. This is a piece on the concept and styling of fashion's new favourite length outfit.
What are midi skirts and dresses?
When you think of midi - think of anywhere from just below the knee to the mid-calf. Originally, midi length wears were ideally mid calf - hence the name, however, they have evolved with style and individual preference to whatever length flatters you the best. Midi skirts and dresses are stylish and elegant; there is a vast collection of styles and a wider array of styling options for whatever look you're going for. If you're a petite girl like me, and you've been looking for ways to rock that midi skirt or dress, then you've come to the right place. This article will give you all the guidelines, tips and style inspiration on how to slay this trendy piece and leave all your tall friends wondering why they ever thought petite wasn't the new cool.
How to wear midi skirts.
First and foremost, get your proportion right. Not all midi skirts are the same and the length that worked on your friend may not be flattering on you. Whether it is right below the knee or extended to the mid calf, there are no strict rules when it comes to how long your midi skirt should be. Experiment and find out what gives your petite frame the drama you desire.
Midi skirts are everything but boring. These skirts come in all patterns and designs. For a more formal look, a pencil-cut midi skirt will do the trick. On a casual day out with friends, your A-line or frilly midi skirt will come in particularly handy. Your pleated or button down midi skirt is work appropriate as well, who said you can't be stylish in the office? Feeling a bit sexy? Try out midi skirts with thigh high slits. It's ultra flattering and will give you a chance to flaunt those legs.
Deciding what kind of top to pair with your midi skirt is easy; t-shirts, off shoulder tops, blouses and of course sweaters whether oversized or form fitting will go perfectly with your midi skirt. Tucking it in creates the illusion of a slimmer waist.
Midi skirts are a fashion statement on their own but when paired with a jacket, you'll be turning heads as you walk down the street. Regardless of if its your metallic bomber leather jacket or the corporate blazer, nothing takes it up a notch like jackets.
Shoes can make or mar your look and you do not want to ruin your look with the wrong shoes. The length of your skirt maybe conservative but your shoes don't have to be. Ankle boots and gladiator sandals will keep you from looking dowdy in your midi skirts. Your classic stilettos and high heeled pumps are considered classics for a reason, pair them with your midi skirts and get in vogue. What's more? You get to look your tall friends in the eye.
How to wear midi dresses
Tips on wearing midi dresses are quite similar to those of their skirt counterparts.
Go for dresses that have a nipped in/ tapered waist. Avoid boxy dresses or anything with too much fabric, you want something that accentuates your shape and flatters your petite frame.
Go for dresses with vertical lines, they draw the eyes from top to bottom effectively elongating your frame. Horizontal lines are your enemy.
Choose smaller prints over larger ones which tend to overwhelm you.
Bold and solid colours are great but there's also nothing wrong with being colourful. Midi dresses with bright and warm colours are what you need in your wardrobe.
Just like with midi skirts, you cannot go wrong with a thigh high slit in your midi dress. What is wrong with showing some skin? Nothing, that's the answer.
With shoes, if it goes with your midi skirt, then you can wear it with your midi dress. Whether it's your knee high boots or ballet flats, pimp up your look and laugh at the tears of the tall ones.
If you want to elongate your legs (not literally) pair your midi dress or skirt with tights and matching coloured shoes, high waisted midi skirts will also give this illusion as well. Ultimately, the best style tip is to know what works for your frame and harness all the possibilities. Midi skirts and dresses are trendy and fashionable and everyone is in love with it.