All girls would agree that finding the perfect outfit is not an easy task because you have to mind the fit, color, and design, among other things. There are a ton of factors to consider in finding the best dresses for your figure, and the job is only harder for petite girls. 

If you are short, you are probably all too familiar with the feeling of finding beautiful pieces that end up too long. So we have to take that extra trip to the alteration shop to have it shortened. But you can’t find a staple that fits your figure perfectly.

Short ladies have a beautiful and unique body structure, which can be highlighted with the right pieces. Shorter girls are indeed underserved when it comes to fashion and clothing, but brands are beginning to recognize the need to develop designs and sizes to suit short ladies. 

To help you find the right one, we’ve compiled the best fashion for girls this year. In this blog post, you can save yourself the trouble of finding flattering pieces that are also the perfect fit.

WHAT DRESSES LOOK BEST ON PETITES?

Editor's Choice Best Overall	Best Proportion	Most Flattering Fit
Sheath Pieces A sheath outfit is the go-to for petite women. It's versatile enough to be worn casually or in a formal event, it flatters the body, and it's a classic look that will never go out of style!	Belted Ensembles If you have an elongated torso and you want to achieve a proportional look, then a belted ensemble is the one for you! It brings a pleasing 1/3 look that would easily elongate your legs.	Wrap Outfits If you love highlighting your curves, wrap outfits are for you. These highlight your curves, giving a slim silhouette and removing unwanted bulks.
Functionality: Quality: Price:	Functionality: Quality: Price:	Functionality: Quality: Price:

LET’S GO OVER THE BEST DRESSES FOR PETITES

#1: SHEATH DRESSES

Form Fitting:     
Heightening:     
Comfort:     

Sheath pieces are ideal and perfect for those with a petite frame. Their fit, straight, and flattering silhouette removes the unwanted bulk and focuses on highlighting the shape of your body. 

It perfectly adheres to fashion’s “rule of thirds,” which requires the division of spaces to be 1/3 at the top and 2/3 at the bottom. Sheath pieces can achieve this, making them the most aesthetically pleasing attire.

Not only does it give the perfect proportion, but it can also make you look as if you are taller and leaner. This is one of our favorite ensembles thanks to its timeless look that you can put on for any special occasion.

PROS AND CONS OF SHEATH DRESSES

Pros	Cons
Flatters your shape Slimmer silhouette Versatile dress	Some styles can be uncomfortable

---

#2: BELTED DRESS

Form Fitting:     
Heightening:     
Comfort:     

Those with petite sizes tend to have a longer torso ratio, but you can improve this proportion. A belted ensemble is the key to changing how your vertical ratio looks.

Putting on a belt high enough to make your lower half look longer than your torso will make you look taller than you are. It’s best not to choose maxi dresses as they only make you look shorter. 

However, if you put on a belted piece, ensure the belt is high above your midriff. Avoid putting the belt directly on the midline because it won’t be able to do the magic of shortening your torso.

And much so should you avoid placing the belt below the midriff. This will make you look even shorter because it will elongate your torso instead of your lower limbs, putting your figure severely out of proportion. It’s the same for pants—you’d want to have the belt high up.

PROS AND CONS OF BELTED DRESS

Pros	Cons
Elongates your lower half Brings a proportioned look Comfortable	Some come in basic designs

---

#3: WRAP DRESSES

Form Fitting:     
Heightening:     
Comfort:     

Gowns with a front closure are a trend. Every girl, both tall and short, would look great with one, but it looks incredible for shorter ladies.

They can help define your midriff area and showcase your curves. It hugs your body and decreases unwanted bulks, thereby elongating your figure. 

They are also a universal favorite because they can highlight your best features and are appropriate for any occasion! You can don this for a formal event, a date, or even as office attire. Those below or above 5 feet should have a few wrap pieces in their closets.

Note that some wrap outfits do not effectively hug your body and showcase your form and features. Some are too loose at the top and slim at the bottom, which are the types you should avoid.

They can make you look stout and shorter than you really are, so you should always choose form-fitting wrap.

PROS AND CONS OF WRAP DRESSES

Pros	Cons
Accentuates your curves Versatile dress Makes you look taller	Some designs can be too tight or bulky

---

#4: BODYCON

Form Fitting:     
Heightening:     
Comfort:     

Bodycon dresses are a top choice for those with a petite stature because they bring a flattering silhouette without overwhelming the frame.

Unlike oversized or boxy ones, these pieces hug the natural shape, enhancing curves while elongating the figure. The form-fitting nature of these dresses helps maintain balance.

Choosing tailored designs and prints with strategic details, such as ruching or side panels, can further define the waist and cinch the midsection, giving a streamlined look that makes you feel confident and stylish.

For a versatile wardrobe, opt for lighter fabrics like silk for a relaxed, breathable feel or structured ones for added support. Classic colors such as black, beige, or a navy midi-length piece provide timeless elegance, while a white dress can offer a fresh, chic look.

When shopping, discover ones with vertical seams or asymmetrical hemlines to elongate the length further.

If you want to shop for a more elevated look, consider luxury brands with high-quality tailoring. These fashion tips will ensure you look polished, stylish, and effortlessly put together in any setting.

PROS AND CONS OF BODYCON

Pros	Cons
Can be for formal or casual events Makes you look taller	Can be difficult to match with

---

#5: MINI AND MIDI DRESSES

Form Fitting:     
Heightening:     
Comfort:     

Mini dresses and midi dresses are ideal for a petite frame because they provide the illusion of elongated legs and maintain balance in proportions.

Shorter hemlines elongate the legs, while well-fitted midi dresses with slits or vertical patterns prevent overwhelming a smaller stature.

Incorporating these into a wardrobe ensures versatility, offering both casual and sophisticated looks that align with a vogue aesthetic.

Whether paired with heels for a refined touch or sneakers for a relaxed vibe, these midi dresses help them feel confident and effortlessly stylish.

PROS AND CONS OF MINI AND MIDI DRESSES

Pros	Cons
Shorter hemlines build the illusion of longer legs Midi dresses offer both casual and sophisticated styling options Structured fits help elongate the silhouette	If not well done, midi dresses may cut off at an unflattering point

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

CONCLUSION

From this collection of outfits, you’ll notice a pattern that will tell you what’s the best outfit to put on. Number one, choose vertical. Second, follow the rule of thirds and elongate your lower half instead of your torso. Third, you can never go wrong with form-fitting clothing. Fourth, simplicity is beauty. And last but not least, always go with what suits your personal style.

Remember these rules the next time you shop for gowns to don on any occasion. Of course, don’t forget the little details, like accessorizing it with a watch or bracelet.

Editor’s Choice

SHEATH DRESSES

Sheath gowns are designed to hug the body and highlight natural curves. This brings a sleek and streamlined look that makes petite ladies appear taller.

Plus, it’s tough to find clothing that fits perfectly when you’re petite, but they offer a great fit that will showcase your figure. They’re also versatile enough to be worn for casual events, business meetings, or formal gatherings.

A sheath piece is the ultimate go-to for petite women. They offer a perfect fit and versatility. Plus, they’re a timeless and classic style that will never go out of fashion.

At long last, summer is finally over! I think we all have a love-hate relationship with the season. We love the sun but HATE the extreme heat.

Though we only experience two seasons in the Philippines, we’re still lucky enough to get a little bit of cold during what we call the ‘ber’ months, which usually starts in September.

Now’s the time to bring out those sweaters and boots you’ve been stocking in your cabinets all summer long — because outfits should change with the weather! Here are some wardrobe must-haves to stay stylish during the ‘ber’ months.

Coats

Yes, even in a tropical country like ours, we can actually rock a coat! The ‘ber’ months are all about layers. So spice up your wardrobe with a thin coat or jacket!

Pro tip: go easy on the fur. It will still be a little hot outside during the ‘ber’ months, after all.

Long Sleeves

Tank tops and spaghetti straps are out. Longsleeves and sweaters are in! Weather can be very unpredictable in the Philippines. Just remember that time you thought it was hot outside only to get soaked in the rain later in the day.

But you can never go wrong with long sleeves clothing — perfect for rain, cozy enough for cold, and bearable even during hot days.

Pro tip: Get creative with how you sport your long sleeves! You can wear them with jeans or a playful skirt.

Stylish Umbrella

The ‘ber’ months hold an arsenal of rainy days, so make sure you’re always prepared! Umbrellas come in handy during this season, but the last thing we want is to lug an umbrella around.

Pro tip: Get a collapsible or foldable umbrella that can fit in your purse to minimize the hassle.

Cardigan

Cue: Taylor Swift’s folklore album! Now you can get the ultimate folklore feals with a knitted cardigan during sweater weather.

A cardigan or cover-up is perfect if you still want to wear your tank tops and crop tops during the ‘ber’ months. That way, you’re prepared whether it’s hot or cold outside!

Pro tip: tie your cardigan or cover-up around your waist when you don’t need it. This will make for a sexy, laid-back, and girly look!

The ‘ber’ months give us the perfect opportunity to dress with class and sophistication. So if I were you, I’d take advantage of it!

With only one more weekend before Christmas, some probably have already attended their annual holiday party. But with December being travel peak season and overseas clients working all throughout the month, plenty of companies have organized their holiday parties past the 25th, with some even having plans to hold theirs in the new year. Whatever the case may be, it’s always helpful to know what constitutes as appropriate for these kinds of shindigs.

A couple years ago, we covered style tips for your Christmas and New Year’s Eve parties, but we have yet to discuss what a suitable ensemble would be for a company organized event.

You’ve likely already figured out that you can wear pretty much anything you would be okay with wearing to the office, even if it’s slightly dressier. However, we figured it’s best that we cover all the office party no-no’s, in case you needed a refresher.

All the things you should not wear at your office holiday party

1. Something that you’d wear to the club

Bars and clubs are places where you can totally experiment with your wardrobe, from the tightest of dresses to the lowest of plunging necklines.  One of the settings that should never see a bandage dress, or any other sexy silhouettes, is an office party.

It’s not just party dresses though. Anything super glittery or sparkly, basically in your face saying that you are a human disco ball, should be off limits. They’re great for NYE when partying with friends, not your office mates.

2. An outfit that makes you look like you just left the office

We get that you might have to wear a pantsuit to the office, but for everyone’s sake, loosen up a little. Sure, you do want to maintain some level of professionalism given that you are attending an office Christmas party; however, it won’t hurt to add some festive touches to your ensemble. Perhaps a green skirt with a bow tie on it, or maybe something as a simple as a white shift dress? You don’t have to go as far as wearing a white top, black waist belt and red skirt, but at least look like you dressed up for cocktail party and not a meeting.

3. A holiday themed costume

This one might seem a little silly, but in every office, there’s always at least one big personality that loves to go over the top for these annual events. Santa hats are harmless, reindeer antlers are welcomed, and Christmas brooches and jewelry do give ensembles a nice holiday twist, and unless you’ve been assigned by the party committee to dress as Mrs. Claus or an elf, leave the costumes at home. We’re all for getting into the holiday spirit, but if the memo doesn’t state that there is a specific theme for the party, then leave the costumes at home.

Also, don’t show up with Christmas tree hair.

4. Anything that lights up or jingles

Here’s another outrageous one for the list. LED lights are a beautiful way to light up a tree and decorate the entire house, but they do not belong on clothing whatsoever. While the Christmas party is a more relaxed environment than your usual office setting, there is no need to wear anything obnoxious, such as a blinking-nosed Rudolph top. Plus, how inconvenient is it to wear something that needs to be plugged into a power source?

Another thing that’s probably more distracting than clothing with flickering lights is clothing or jewelry with bells on it. While sleigh bells may look cute around your neck or wrist, they’ll only get on your nerves later on in the evening. Bells ringing every time you move an inch? Doesn’t sound like a good time to us.

5. Ugly Christmas sweaters/vests

This one depends on how big the event is, whether it’s a company-wide party or a department get-together at a bar. The ugly Christmas sweater, or any warm weather alternative to it, works among friends and family, so if it’s decided among everyone in the group that the party is gonna be of casual nature, then there are no issues. Though just to be on the safe side, you might want to go for something that is deemed a little more professional.

I remember when my mom used to pick out my clothes and tell me they were pang tinedyer.

She made a clear divide of what teenagers could wear and what was reserved for adults. I didn’t get it. And a lot of the time, I wanted to borrow her clothes. I hated the idea that age should restrict me from wearing certain things, especially when I despised most of the trends popular among my peers.

I learned over time that personal style is ever evolving, not necessarily to keep up with the changing fashion landscape, but more so to suit your transformative taste. As you mature, so does your personal style.

That’s not to say your style ages. Rather, you’re on the path to discovering what your true sense of fashion is, and so with each year you grow in age, you’re fine-tuning your image and personality through your wardrobe. So my mom kind of had it right when she told me that polka dot pleated skater skirt was for teens. Although I disliked the item itself, your youth is the time you can explore and experiment, no matter how strange the trend, to see what you like and don’t like. Besides, you can’t knock anything until you try it.

While there isn’t really a clear divide between what clothes are appropriate for each age group, we all have a sense of what pieces are better on an 18-year-old, a 38-year-old, and a 58-year old. However, there are loads of clothing styles out there that works throughout the generations. Other than the obvious classic pieces that are essential for a capsule wardrobe, there are several dresses that any woman at any age can certainly pull off.

Have a look at our list of age-defying frocks:

1. A Wrap Dress

Last year, we wrote a feature on the significance of a wrap dress, sharing its history and highlighting the benefits. To briefly reiterate, it’s a year-round piece that looks good virtually on every body type, as it creates a waist even for apple-shaped figures. Plus, a wrap dress can be easily dressed up or down, and there aren’t a lot of frocks out there that can slip through the cracks of several dress codes.

An item with three-quarter sleeves like a V-neck long sleeve loose mini dress would look especially good on more mature women, however ladies in that age group might opt for a midi hem. Because some might deem a dress like this too matronly for their taste, thus women under their 40’s might go with the mini hem instead.

2. A Sleeveless Sheath Dress

The bodycon silhouette is pretty problematic for some, though some are all for it. Hell would probably freeze over before the Kardashian sisters retired their skintight sense of style, but others might say that there is an age limit for bodycon pieces that put everything on display. A sheath dress, on the other hand, does not discriminate in age or figure.

Fitted with some wiggle room unlike a bandage frock, a Dot pattern pencil midi dress shows off your curves without making the dress look like a second layer of skin. A dress like this is appropriate across various environments, from your workplace to church events, as well as cocktail parties and weddings. You can also wear a sheath dress with a snug jacket or a fitted cardigan.

3. A Skater or Fit and Flare Dress

No matter how old or fit you are, the problem area that we all commonly struggle with is our midsection, or our tummies. We love anything that conceals our bellies, and skater dresses are perfect for that. Fitted from the neck and flared from the waist down, the Vintage floral print midi dress is an example frock that could potentially be worn by a 20-year-old or a 60-year-old.

The silhouette offers retro vibes and has proved its worth over the decades. It’s fun and flirty, and offers a youthful look for senior women. You can also throw on a fitted cardigan for a more conservative look.

Do you have all of these dresses in your wardrobe already? If not, make sure you check out our dresses so that your wardrobe is filled with pieces that will last you.

Is it just me, or do you also find the traditional suit kind of boring?

Sure, black is classic, and you can never go wrong with solid colored suits, but the conventional blazer and slacks or pencil skirt combo just seems so stiff. Even when you end up mixing and matching these workwear pieces, they somehow still appear inflexible, in the way that there isn’t much room for personal expression.

While paisley print and short skirts may be out of the question, there are ways you can add more interest into your power suit, without sacrificing the original intent of looking like the boss that you are. Even though you’re still expected to follow the etiquette of either business casual or formal, that doesn’t mean you can’t incorporate your personality into your professional attire.

To give your power suit your own personal touch, do the following:

Make sure your suit fits

There is nothing worse than an ill-fitting suit. In order to look your absolute best in terms of style and respectability, you have to make sure that your tailored separates fit. A Korean-style mid-length blazer, no matter how sleek the design, would look awful if the shoulder pads didn’t sit exactly on your shoulders. Unlike with other kinds of clothing where you might be able to get away with a size smaller or larger than what you normally wear, a suit that doesn’t fit just makes a person look silly.

It’s so important that you feel comfortable in your officewear, given how restrictive it can be. If a store doesn’t carry your size, or none of the items have that fit you’re looking for, go a size up and get it tailored to your shape. You can also get a couple suits tailored to ensure they are the perfect fit.

Don’t be afraid of prints

Solid colored suits can appear rather uptight, so if you feel like changing things up, feel free to explore with some printed pieces. Obviously, there are certain prints that won’t work in strict environments, so you just have to be mindful of your office surroundings, gauge what is acceptable within your workplace. Subtle patterns that work across all offices include pinstripe, windowpane check, and glen plaid. Others like houndstooth, graph check and a Checkered Karylle midi skirt would also be options for office appropriate patterns.

If you’re unsure of the whole printed pantsuit, mix and match with solid color separates to tone it down.

There’s nothing wrong with pairing flats with a suit

Most stylists will probably tell you that heels are the best for power dressing. While heels do offer the height that mirrors empowerment, flats can look just as good, if not better, with your favorite suit. A suit is no less powerful if you replace your peep-toe pumps with Lace-up leather flat shoes; the latter just offers a slightly more masculine vibe without taking away from the formidable nature of your power suit.

As long as your flats are clean, polished, and basically look good as new, there’s honestly no reason why you can’t command the boardroom in Spring pointed flats instead of uncomfortable stillettos.

Add some flair into your suit

Although you don’t want to go to crazy with your suit, you can make adjustments throughout to give your outfit a little something extra. On days you’re wearing a solid hued matching skirt or pantsuit, consider going for a print or a ruffled blouse underneath. Or if you’re going with classics on top, such as a white button-up, opt for an interesting shape at the bottom, perhaps Wide leg pleated cropped pants or a Peplum pencil skirt. Little details like these that stray from the typical pantsuit silhouette are what help businesswomen make their office wardrobes much more wearable, while still giving them the confidence they need to be as successful as they are.

With a great suit comes the power needed to command the respect of others, though a great suit with your personal touch comes with the confidence that you don’t need to be anyone else but yourself in order to succeed.

Boots don’t seem to be a popular choice of footwear for a tropical country like the Philippines.

It’s not all that surprising, really, considering boots trap heat and can make us sweatier than we need to be. However, people need to stop associating the category as winter wear, since there are plenty of styles out there that can be worn even in the warmest of climates. Plus, boots keep your feet dry from the dreary, daily downpour. As long as you’re not wearing fur-lined boots, and choose a pair that is water resistant, there’s really nothing wrong with wearing boots in Manila.

With boots not so prevalent in local street style, some people might have trouble incorporating these shoes into their everyday wardrobe. If you happen to be one of them, here’s a quick guide on the various boot heights and how you can wear them:

Over-the-knee (OTK) or Thigh-high Boots

Let’s tackle this one first, since OTKs are probably the most difficult to tackle out of the bunch (but really, it’s not all that difficult in the grand scheme of things). Anything thigh-high is usually automatically deemed as sexy, so some find it extremely hard wearing these without feeling conscious of their appearance.

The key to wearing something like High heel long suede boots is making sure you minimize the amount of skin shown on your legs. So for skirts and dresses, go with knee-length instead of mini. If you’re thinking of layering, longer cardigans and thin coats help cover up that sliver of skin. As for other bottoms, jeans will be too thick and warm, but leggings are thin enough to be layered underneath.

Knee-high Boots

Probably the easiest to wear in the list, knee-highs are great with skinny jeans and other pants with a slim fit, since these shoes are much less restrictive than thigh-high boots. The height is also perfect for knee-length and mini hems. Thus for Suede tassel boots, a simple jersey t-shirt dress that stops mid thigh on top would make a comfy yet stylish ensemble for the weekend, whether it’s wet or dry. Midi or maxi skirts and dresses also have potential for a nice boot outfit, although that combination may seem more appropriate for fall and winter, so save that for when you’re traveling to places with cooler temperatures.

Shorts are also a possibility, but it also depends on the style of the boot. Flat boots work, but heeled ones might be a little too skimpy.

Calf Boots

Calf boots are pretty similar with their knee-length cousin, in terms of clothing options. One additional bottom you can try on with flat calf boots, such as Mid-calf moto boots, are knee-length leggings or skinny capri pants. Just because boots cover up more than other shoes, it doesn’t mean you have to TOTALLY cover your entire leg. If you want to wear shorts, try experimenting with socks longer than the boots, pairing them with a tee and denim shorts ensemble.

One of the best qualities of calf boots is that there isn’t a dress length you can’t wear them with. Whether you’re in the mood for a denim mini slip or a plaid A-line midi skirt, calf boots will do your outfit justice.

Ankle Boots

Because of where ankle boots end, a lot of people prefer skinny pant silhouettes to lengthen their legs, or wear shorter dresses and skirts so that their legs don’t look short and stumpy. With Suede ankle boots, you can opt for leggings for the tucked in look, or cuff your skinny jeans if they don’t fit in the boots. Long socks scrunched down are also an option for flat ankle boots. The only item you really want to avoid with these are midi skirts, as they’ll make your ankles appear chunky.

Booties

Although they are often confused as ankle boots, there is a difference. Booties generally end at the ankle, while ankle boots are normal a couple inches taller. Low Martin boots can pair with mostly anything listed in the previous section, keeping in mind that midis and maxis are a no-go. Personally, I believe booties pair better with pants than skirts and dresses because of how short the boots are. However, the bunched up sock trick does give them the appearance of taller boots. Just remember to stick with socks in neutral colors.

(INSTAGRAM // iamhearte)

It’s no secret that celebrities like Heart Evangelista lead a lavish lifestyle. About a month ago, the Pinay sweetheart was branded as one of the real life Crazy Rich Asians, featured in a Harper’s Bazaar segment that had her hanging out and discussing fashion with author Kevin Kwan, among other affluent style icons that fit the bill. Ah, the front row seats at NYFW, the personalized fittings with couture designers. If only we were Crazy Rich Asians, am I right?

While we may not be able to live as opulently as they can, we can certainly mimic their style. Although most of us can’t afford designer labels, there are a few notes we can take from Heart: our very own beautiful, talented, Crazy Rich Asian.

Steal Her Style: How to Dress Like Heart Evangelista

1) Say “no” to skinny jeans

(INSTAGRAM // iamhearte)

Skinny jeans don’t seem to be part of her style repertoire, and we totally get it. Instead of pairing her eccentric feather blouse with second-skin denim, she opts for the boyfriend fit, indicating that you don’t need to showcase every curve and crevice of your body to dress it up. Looser pant silhouettes, like High waist cropped boyfriend jeans and Retro flared jeans can be just as easily incorporated into a sophisticated outfit, so take it easy on your skinny jeans.

2) Embrace the midi

(INSTAGRAM // iamhearte)

Although you’ll see that she wears a mini or knee length skirt every now and then, the majority of her snaps feature the midi hem. Whether it’s a dress or skirt, it’s clear that she’s fond all things midi, and who can blame her? It’s elegant without being overly formal, it’s the least offensive of the hemlines, and it’s easier to walk in compared to minis and maxis. Plus, it’s the perfect length to show off her shoes, and as you might have noticed, she has an exquisite heel collection.

3) Don’t forget your handbag

(INSTAGRAM// iamhearte)

If there’s one item that you should really be investing in, it’s a handbag. Clothes and shoes will experience the inevitable wear and tear, but the one accessory that will potentially last your whole life is a handbag. Looking through her photos, Heart never forgets to show off her bag of the day. Her sense of fashion is impeccable, from her makeup all the way down to her choice of purse. They say that shoes really make an outfit, but the right handbag bring an entire ensemble to the next level.

4) Have a wide range of blazers

(INSTAGRAM // iamhearte)

The fit, the collar and the tailoring—there’s nothing in your wardrobe that polishes an ensemble quite like a blazer. Heart is all for them blazers evidently, and she’s not just limiting them to the classic black staple. Other than this checkered piece above, she’s been seen wearing items in bold colors as well as muted tones, such as pastels. In fact, she’s yet to be seen in a black blazer, at least on Instagram, that is. Of course, with that many blazers in her collection, there’s no doubt that she does have at least one in black hanging in her closet.

5) Always wear heels

(INSTAGRAM // iamhearte)

Who would have thought that a PAWS t-shirt could be dressed up like this? Heart makes everything possible style-wise, and with this kind of outfit, she’s showing everyone that you can wear almost anything with heels. Yes, heels can be pretty uncomfortable, but when you wear them as often as Heart does, they won’t bother you as much. Also, heels just makes everything look better. Switch that midi with distressed jeans and she would still look oh-so-chic.

6) Make sure your hair always looks good

(INSTAGRAM // iamhearte)

If you look through her Instagram, one of the other things that’s consistent in her posts is how sleek her hair is, including this photo above. The fact that she looks this good while having her morning coffee on the weekend is unfair. It’s rare for most to look this put together on their day off, but a simple ponytail or bun can make all the difference in your appearance.  Even though she is in a slip, she still looks put together.

So there you have it. You may not be a Crazy Rich Asian like Heart, but you might be able to look it by following in her fashion footsteps!

As pinays, we’re not really blessed in the height department. Although our country continuously breeds modelesque beauty pageant contestants, the average Filipina stands at a mere 5 feet. Because of our genetic shortness, there are a lot of things we’re told to avoid in order for us not to look any shorter than we already are, steering clear of things like maxis, as well as jumpsuits.

Well, I’ve proven in the past that short gals can wear maxis, and today, I’ll prove that they can also wear jumpsuits.

Style experts tend to forget that as long as you tailor an item to your body shape, there isn’t a trend out there that you can’t try.

To give you a little inspiration that petite women can do a jumpsuit justice, we looked through Instagram and saw a bunch of pinay celebs donning a one-piece, such as Coleen Garcia and Maja Salvador, who are 5’4 and 5’0, respectively. Although, you can’t really tell they’re that short, can you?

(INSTAGRAM // coleen)

(INSTAGRAM // iammajasalvador)

Of course, not all jumpsuits were made to fit a petite frame. There are a few things to be on the lookout for, but as long as you follow these style tips, you’ll find at least a couple jumpsuits that will hug you in all the right places, and elongate those legs.

1. When in doubt, go with dark solid colors

A black one-piece like the Sleeveless bodycon jumpsuit is always a safe bet, but let’s not limit ourselves. There are a range of darker hues you can go for, such as maroon, deep purple, navy, etc., so don’t think that black is the only color you can wear.

While a darker palette seems to work best for smaller girls, you can try on jumpsuits in other colors. Just remember that solid shades are much easier to work with, as prints tend to make your outfit more busy, which may in turn result in you being swallowed by the fabric.

2. Choose details that will elongate your stature

If you are in search for a jumpsuit with some kind of pattern, pin or any kind of vertical stripes lengthen your body, adding a couple more inches into your 5-foot figure. Other elongating details you can look for are high slits, or a diagonal sash that layers as slits like a Summer clubwear jumpsuit. The one-shoulder characteristic of the item also works to balance the amount of skin shown with the amount covered.

3. Opt for a deep v-neck

Whether you’ve got a larger bust or a flat chest, the deep v-neck is a good look on anyone. It works especially well for shorter sisters that are on the lookout for jumpsuits suited to their height, as again, it seeks to balance out the fabric versus skin exposed, elongating your neck. If the Deep v-neck floral jumpsuit is a little too sexy for your taste, one shoulder and tube jumpsuits also have the same effect of making you look taller than you actually are. 

4. Wear a belt

A lot of fashion bloggers might suggest you go for fitted jumpsuits, but if short girls can wear wide leg pants like tall ladies can, then there’s no reason why you have to squeeze into a body-conforming one-piece. The Summer wide leg jumpsuit may seem like there’s too much fabric for your entire body, but a waist belt breaks everything up. Feel free to try belts with different thicknesses to see what works for your waist, as well as your jumpsuit.

And if the wide leg is not for you, remember that there are various pant silhouettes you can experiment with. It’s all about what you look and feel great in. There are also loose cropped styles if that’s more your style.

5. Make adjustments

Not everything you buy will fit you perfectly, and that’s okay. If the jumpsuit is a little long, get it hemmed. If the jumpsuit has more of a sheath silhouette, wear a belt or have your tailor create some sort of elastic waist. As long as you have a good tailor, you can make the adjustments you nee in order for the jumpsuit to fit your body.

If you’ve got a love-hate relationship with heels, you’re not alone. With that height comes great power and even if you’ve got blisters and lost all feeling in your toes, there is no denying how great a woman looks in a pair of stilettos. They lengthen your legs and improve your posture.

There’s an authoritative presence that comes with a gorgeous pair of heels. But why must we sacrifice our comfort to feel that sense of empowerment? Seems hardly fair, in my opinion.

So what do we do, then? Easy. We look for alternatives. Though heels seem to be the more appropriate choice of footwear for various settings–such as a cocktail party, club and maybe even some offices– you always have another option.

Don’t believe me? While “black tie” does indicate formal attire, the choice of footwear is not as specific. Heels are merely implied. It’s all about the design of the shoe. Obviously, black leather flats are a much more appropriate choice for a fancy even compared to wedge sandals. You just have to find those loopholes.

Now, I’m not saying you should get rid of your heels all together. From court shoes to peep toe pumps, most of your heels in your collection will outlast most shoe trends, and the key takeaway from this is that you can explore other footwear options if you’re not in the mood to wear anything above three inches.

If you’re heading to the office, swap out your pumps with oxfords.

Oxfords might be an odd suggestion if you’re used to typically feminine silhouettes. When we’re talking about the workplace, most women would opt for ballet flats instead of heels. But let’s face it, black ballet flats don’t do much to enhance an outfit. Picture these Lace-up Flat Leather Shoes with gauchos and a tailored blouse, or a red A-line dress and a black boyfriend blazer. The oxfords make a big difference in adding more personality into your office uniform.

If you’re attending a wedding, swap out your chunky heels with pointed flats.

Why it’s an unspoken rule that you must wear heels at a wedding is just baffling. It doesn’t matter if you’re a guest, a bridesmaid or a bride, you can wear flats that will do right by your wedding outfit. Non-traditional brides have gone as far as wearing sneakers on their big day, while others have opted for a lacy ballet flat. Another pair of shoes that is elegant enough to hold its own is pointed flats.

Looking at our Pointed Toe Flat Shoes with Ankle Bracelets, these flats are well within most wedding attires. Bridesmaids can wear these if they’re within the bride’s chosen color palette, and guests can wear these with a dress or even cropped pants.

If you’re headed for a night out, swap out your stilettos with flat boots.

Saturday nights can be unpredictable. One minute, you’re having dinner with your high school friends, and the next minute, you’re heading to the dance floor at your favorite club. Heels are never a good idea on a spontaneous night out. The shoes that will last you through the night are flat boots. May they be OTKs or Military Combat Boots, boots will work in your favor 

If you’ve got a lunch date, swap out your wedges with white sneakers.

A little white dress looks super cute with wedges or Mary Jane court shoes, but if your heels aren’t practical on your date, change into some white kicks. Leather ones are preferable, similar to our Casual Leather Sneakers that will match any day dress you have hanging in your closet. If you feel like that may be too casual, you can dress up the ensemble with some jewelry and a nice clutch.

If you’re going to a pool party, swap out your heeled sandals with flat sandals.

I always found it quite ridiculous when movies show ladies walking around in bikinis and heels. It’s even more ridiculous that it happens in real life, despite it being a hazardous combination. Shoes like our Scotland Flat Sandals are just as trendy as heeled varieties, and definitely the safer option around the pool.

(INSTAGRAM // solenn)

Growing up with a strict Filipino mother, modesty was always the best policy. Nothing too short, nothing too tight, and absolutely nothing low cut. But as I grew up, I learned to love my body for what it was, and wore clothes because they fit me well, and I looked good in them. I started buying clothes that I loved and stopped shopping according to other people’s expectations. Why try to please others when you’re the one who’s going to wear the clothes, not everyone else?

When I discovered my body type, I learned that v-necks and low cut tops balanced out my broad shoulders. From there, I learned to dress according to my shape, but it wasn’t always smooth-sailing. Cleavage-baring tops and dresses are categories hard to navigate when you grew up with a conservative wardrobe, especially if you’ve been taught that any kind of cleavage makes you look trashy.

It’s true that too much exposure of your chest will be perceived as tasteless. But the trick is cover up in other places so you’re not showing off your entire body. A good rule to live by is to show off either your legs or cleavage, never both, unless skimpy is the look you’re going for.

One celebrity that seems to have mastered the art of the classy cleavage exposure is Solenn Heusaff. Known to be more daring in terms of personality and style, she is never one to shy away from showing off her figure, making her the appropriate role model for today’s topic.

Whether you were A’s or Double D’s, there are plenty of clothes out there you can give the girls the attention they deserve, without appearing indecent. Here’s how Solenn does it:

Tip #1: “Cover up” with a long-sleeve v-neck

(INSTAGRAM // solenn)

An simple way to put the spotlight on your rack without going overboard is finding a long-sleeve blouse with a v neckline. Whether you choose to wear a cleavage enhancing bra underneath or not is up to you. What a top like our Asymmetrical Wrap V-Neck Blouse does is put the focus on your boobs while covering up the rest of your top half, making your outfit modestly sexy. Opt for a choker to keep things simple while creating a triangular shape as a focal point for your cleavage.

If you haven’t got a long-sleeve blouse with a plunging neckline, no worries. Using the same concept of covering up your arms when wearing a boob-centric top, finish the outfit with a blazer, denim jacket, or maybe a cardigan.

Tip #2: Wear overalls

(INSTAGRAM // solenn)

Got a corset or a bustier top you want to wear? Contrast any lingerie-looking items with something playful, like overalls. This childhood staple balances out the overall sexiness exuded by the bandeau or tube top. Plus, it’s honestly one of the best ways to wear overalls as a grown-up. In case you’re wondering what kind of silhouette to go for, think Wide Leg Vintage Denim Overalls.

Tip #3: Throw on some high waist jeans and an oversized shirt

(INSTAGRAM // solenn)

Crop tops are best with high waist bottoms like jeans, but something you want to keep in mind is how revealing your crop top is. What Solenn did with her bralette looking top was quite clever, pairing two conventionally feminine and sexy items (heels and deep v crop) with traditionally masculine clothes (ripped jeans and a shirt).

While the concept seems like it would clash, it actually works in a cohesive manner. What happens is that the overall outfit doesn’t end up being about your cleavage, which is a major bonus for those that feel uneasy about showing off their chest. And it doesn’t have to be a plain white shirt like Solenn’s, as an Oversized Plaid Shirt would work just as well.

Tip #4: Wear your hair down

(INSTAGRAM // solenn)

Perhaps the easiest way to provide a little more coverage around your boobs is by letting your hair down. Beach waves are a great way to dial down the seductive nature of your cleavage without losing the overall sex appeal in your outfit. So, just keep that in mind the next time you’re styling your favorite bodysuit or a Bustier Crop Top on your next night out.

And if our short to medium-haired sisters are feeling out of this one, don’t fret! You can always experiment with hair extensions.

Have any other suggestions for showing off that cleavage with revealing too much? Leave your tips in the comments below!