Wrap Dress Styling for Petites: 5 Hacks to Flatter Your Frame
The wrap dress has been a staple in women’s fashion for decades, with its ability to flatter and accentuate different body types. However, for petite women, finding the perfect wrap dress can be challenging. The wrong fit or length can overwhelm a petite frame and make you feel lost in the fabric. But fear not, with a few simple hacks, petite women can rock a wrap dress and feel confident and stylish. In this article, we will explore 5 hacks to flatter your frame and master the art of wrap dress styling for petites.
1. Choose the Right Length
The first and most important step to styling a wrap dress for petites is finding the right length. Aim for a hemline that hits just above the knee or mid-thigh. This length will create the illusion of longer legs and make you appear taller. Avoid ankle-length wrap dresses as they can overwhelm your frame and make you appear shorter.
Short Petites:
For women under 5’3, a wrap dress that hits just above the knee is ideal. This length will visually elongate your legs and create a balanced look. Avoid longer lengths that can make you look disproportionate.
Tall Petites:
Taller petites, between 5’3 and 5’5, can opt for a slightly longer wrap dress that hits at mid-thigh. This will still create the illusion of longer legs without making you look too short. Try to avoid hemlines that hit at the widest part of your calves, as they can make your legs look shorter.
2. Define Your Waist
One of the greatest benefits of a wrap dress is its ability to cinch in your waist and create an hourglass figure. To flatter your petite frame, make sure to define your waist by tying the dress at your natural waistline. This will create an elongated, slimming effect and visually add inches to your height. Avoid tying the dress too high up, as this can make your torso look shorter.
Tip:
For a more defined waistline, try adding a belt over the wrap dress. This will not only accentuate your waist but also add an interesting detail to your outfit. Avoid thick belts, as they can overwhelm a petite frame. Instead, opt for a slim or medium-width belt.
3. Opt for Vertical Prints or Solid Colors
When it comes to petite frame, vertical lines and prints are your best friend. They create the illusion of length and make you appear taller. Opt for pinstripes, thin stripes, or any vertical print that catches your eye. Solid colors can also have the same effect, especially when paired with a statement accessory like a belt or statement necklace.
On the other hand, horizontal lines and large, bold prints can make you look wider and shorter. If you’re drawn to a wrap dress with a horizontal print, make sure it is small and not too bold.
4. Pay Attention to the Fabric
The fabric of your wrap dress can also play a crucial role in how it flatters your frame. Lighter, flowy fabrics like cotton, chiffon or silk can drape beautifully on a petite frame without overwhelming it. Avoid heavy fabrics such as denim, leather, or bulky knits, as they can add unnecessary bulk to your frame.
Tip:
If you’re looking for a wrap dress that has a heavier fabric, try to balance it out by opting for a more fitted style. This will prevent you from looking overwhelmed by the fabric.
5. Accessorize Strategically
Accessories can make or break an outfit for petite women. To flatter your frame in a wrap dress, opt for accessories that will draw the eye upwards. Statement earrings, a statement necklace, or a scarf tied around your neck will create a vertical line that can make you look taller. Avoid oversized or chunky accessories that can overpower your petite frame.
Tip:
If you’re wearing a wrap dress with a V-neckline, opt for a delicate pendant or a long pendant necklace to create a lengthening effect. For a wrap dress with a higher neckline, opt for earrings that dangle downwards to create a similar effect.
In conclusion, with the right length, defined waist, strategic prints, appropriate fabric, and strategic accessorizing, petite women can pull off a wrap dress with confidence and style. Remember to experiment and find what works best for your unique frame. With these 5 hacks, you’ll be turning heads and mastering the art of wrap dress styling for petites in no time.
