Nikki’s Inbox: Breaking All The Rules?

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Let me put your mind at rest, even a little, Lily. Whatever is said about body shapes, and dressing in general are not absolute. It’s not the law, and no one is going to jail for violating them (even if sometimes we think they deserve to). Fashion is inherently a very personal thing, and a way of self-expression. Thus, even in this column, it’s all just advice, all are simply suggestions. After all, this is your body and personality we’re talking about, so the final decision is always in your hands.

Let’s break down all those recommendations you read in manageable bits and pieces, okay?

A Longer Upper Body

Having a longer upper half means you can wear empire and high-waist cuts, even if you’re petite. Such styles will also flatter your bust area. I cannot stress how important it is to have good, well-fitting foundation garments underneath. It makes a huge difference in streamlining your outfit.

Make sure to wear tops that hit your hips at most as anything longer will overwhelm your petite frame. Try tucking in your tops into the waistband in order to look more visually proportioned.

Rocho : Bornite : Hazy Dazy : Jolly Club

More Legroom

With us petites, sometimes we need to show a little more to compensate for the lack of height. In this case, it’s your shorter legs, which can be remedied by a higher hemline. I’m not asking you to wear something skimpy or scandalous. If you’re used to wearing shorts and skirts at knee-length or below the knee, try shorts that hit mid-thigh and skirts that are a couple of inches above your knee. It will instantly make your legs look longer. Even better, make sure that youtake care of your legs to make sure they’re worth displaying.

Avoid wearing baggy jeans as they will add visual bulk to your frame. Mid-rise skinny and ankle-length jeans and pants are better as they’ll minimize the disparity between your upper and lower body. Lastly, please make sure your pants and denims are cut to your inseam. Bunched-up fabric at the ankles never looks good.

J-ANN : CHERRYKOKO : J-ANN

MyFiona : Hyoty : HOTPING

The Question of Color, Prints and Patterns

For this particular concern of yours, Lily, I think there isn’t actually a right or wrong answer. Prints, patterns and colors are used for emphasis. But in your case, it’s not just about having a longer upper body or shorter legs. You’re 4’9 and if you wear giant cabbage rose prints on top, it’s not going to look good on you. If you want to wear prints and patterns, stick to small and tiny ones. As for color, that’s really up to you. You can wear all black and still look good even as a petite, or wear all white and rock it. If you’re not confident about mixing colors, just remember to pair a bold hue with a neutral one, e.g., purple with white, red with black, green with beige, etc. It’s easy to do and you’re not breaking any “rules” with it.

Jolly Club : MAGJAY : Ozipan

Good luck!

P.S. If you’re sending a question, please don’t forget to include any helpful information about your body type or shape, your tastes or personality. You can include a selfie (link only please) or a photo of your clothes (which I will never publish without pre-approval). Thank you!