Since we all live in boots this time of year, here are a few guidelines for wearing boots when you are 5′4″ or shorter:

1.  Be sure your hemline covers the top of your boot to create a long, unbroken line of color on the leg.

2.  Choose a boot in a color than blends rather than contrasts with what you are wearing.  A black boot with black pants is way more flattering on a petite woman than a red boot with black pants.

3.  Wear boots with opaque hose or ribbed tights in the same color as your skirt or dress to elongate short legs.

The weather is freezing across the country, even in Florida where I live.  But I feel pretty confident saying that only in Florida do residents wear sweaters and flip-flops when it is 30 degrees outside. 

This uniquely Florida fashion statement is something that I will never get used to.  Why would any reasonably intelligent person expose their naked feet in sub-freezing temperatures?  Yet everywhere I go, I see women wearing cashmere sweaters or sweatshirts on top only to look down and see flip-flops or exercise sandals on the feet.  I urge my fellow petite Floridians to invest in boots and opaque tights this time of year.  Not only will these cold weather essentials keep you warm, they create long unbroken lines of color that will stretch short legs.

Common sense dictates that no matter how many layers of clothing you wear on the top half of your body, you will still be cold if your toes are frozen. 

It is important for petite women to choose accessories that flatter rather than overpower their petite frame.  The wrong accessories can throw an entire look off balance.  That said, two current fashion trends are driving me crazy.  Everywhere I go, I see petite “fashion victims.”

“IS THAT A CHANDELIER HANGING FROM YOUR EARLOBE?”

Petite women simply must keep proportion and scale in mind at all times.  Without exception, earrings that graze your shoulder overwhelm you.  Go for the same look on a smaller scale.   

“YOUR HANDBAG IS BIGGER THAN YOU ARE.”

Avoid a handbag as big as your body.  Nobody has that much to carry, unless you are going away.  In that case, you will need a suitcase and not a giant handbag.

Tis the season for holiday parties and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune to look fabulous.  Want to know how to put together a dressy petite wardrobe that is stylish, versatile, and affordable?  When the occasion calls for dressing up, stretch your clothing budget by using the same mix and match strategies that work so well for career and casual clothes.

The first step is to invest in quality basics.  Topping that list should be the Little Black Dress, the best dressy basic you can possibly own.  The Little Black Dress never goes out of style and looks great on all petite shapes and sizes.  Go for a classic style that can serve as a canvas for self-expression.  The same Little Black Dress that you wear to a cocktail party with pearls and pumps looks just as good with chunky metal chains and suede boots for an office dinner. 

 You also need to invest in a really great pair of black pants in a dressy fabric like silk, velvet, rayon faille, or lightweight wool crepe.  Choose a cut that flatters your petite figure shape. 

 Next, start collecting blouses, tops, and sweaters that change the look of your holiday basics.  Start with a glittering sequin tank or metallic cardigan this year, and add new pieces each holiday season.  Endless possibilities include a feminine lace blouse, ruffled tuxedo shirt, colorful silk tunic, lingerie-inspired bustier, jewel-studded sweater, or beaded jacket. 

 “Must have” accessories for a dressy wardrobe include a basic black pump, strappy sandals, a glitzy clutch or handbag, and pearls, diamonds, or dazzling gemstones (real or faux). 

The formula is simple.  Invest in quality basics like a Little Black Dress and dressy black pants that you can wear for seasons to come.  Each year, add new petite tops and well-chosen accessories to give those basics new life.  You will never complain that you “don’t have a thing to wear” again because of all the dressy options hanging right there in your closet.  Save time, money, and celebrate the holidays in perfect petite style!!!