As a 5’ 4” (on a good day) fashion editor, I know all too well how tricky it can be to find clothes that fit well and feel like they genuinely suit you without endless trips to the tailor, who, yes, I’m on first name terms with (hi, Mark!). Over the years, however, I’ve learned that building a tight, considered capsule wardrobe is what will serve you well and ultimately stop you wasting your time and money on pieces you end up regretting. When you’re petite, it’s even more important to get the edit right: the wrong cuts or lengths can easily overwhelm a smaller frame, while the right proportions make you feel instantly put together.
Through a fair bit of trial and error (and many pieces I wish I’d bought sooner), I’ve finally landed on the items that really work hard for me. Each piece can be mixed and matched, works across different dress codes and seasons, and—most importantly—feels timeless enough that I won’t tire of it. And while you can absolutely add more directional or fabulous items outwith it, having a core capsule on standby will ensure you’re never left flustered when you need to pull together a look. Really, I’m giving you the gift of time and a calm mental state.
Let’s cut to the chase then, shall we? Below I’ve curated the nine key pieces that make up my petite capsule wardrobe. Every item has been chosen from personal experience, and together they form a foundation you can build on for years to come, just like any good capsule should.
The Perfect 9-Piece Petite Capsule Wardrobe
1. Cropped Tailored Trousers
Style Notes: It took me years to realise that, instead of long trousers which I thought would give the illusion of height, that a pair that hits just above the ankle works much better on my frame. Cropped trousers somehow manage to elongate the leg whilst also working with every shoe style, from loafers to heels and even ankle boots (I just ensure the boot sits underneath the trouser hem for a clean-looking finish). I prefer black, cream, navy or khaki as they look sharp enough for work but can also be styled casually, but your capsule can include your own colour preferences.
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COS
Pleated Barrel-Leg Chinos
ST. AGNI
Pleated Cotton-Blend Tapered Pants
ARKET
Press-Crease Cotton Trousers – Black – Women – Arket Gb
2. Column Skirt
Style Notes: While I love an A-line or full-blown circle skirt, if I had to choose one to add to my petite capsule wardrobe, it would definitely be a column skirt in a midi or maxi length. The simple, straight-up-and-down silhouette makes me look more in proportion with the top half of my body. Not only that, but it’s probably one of the more versatile skirt options out there as it neither feels too casual nor too dressy.
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ALIGNE
Mia Linen Maxi Skirt
MANGO
Cotton Skirt With Opening
POSSE
Emma Linen Midi Skirt
3. Slip Dress
Style Notes: A sleek slip dress is known for its versatility and, much like the column skirt we just discussed, I’ve found that it’s simple, no-fuss shape suits my petite stature much more than anything with more statement detailing, such as ruffles or proportions that don’t quite work. I’d opt for a style that hits just on the ankle too, again for the same reasons I laid out in the cropped trouser section—there’s something about this length that just works and looks much more considered than a hemline that falls mid-calf or trails on the floor.
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Ghost
Palm Satin Midi Slip Dress
ZARA
Satin Midi Dress With Bows
Omnes
Iris Jacquard Dress in Vintage Pink
4. Trench Coat
Style Notes: A piece you’ll find in many a capsule wardrobe is the trench coat, so much so it might sound cliché at this point, but it’s there for good reason—it’s the outerwear style you’re likely to get the most wear out of when you look at the year as a whole. What’s more, I think it’s perfect for petites. The fabric tends to be more fluid than other coat styles (thick wool coats, I’m looking at you), which ensures even longer styles won’t swamp petite frames. I also think they look great left unbuttoned or cinched at the waist with the accompanying tie, which also helps to balance out proportions somewhat.
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SKALL STUDIO
Mahsa Belted Cotton Trench Coat
Massimo Dutti
100% Cotton Water-Repellent Trench Coat
5. Straight-Leg Jeans
Style Notes: Rather than dramatic flares or overly wide cuts, I opt for straight-leg denim. It creates a clean line that doesn’t shorten the leg and works with everything from ballet flats to ankle boots. And by now, you’ll know it’s all about versatility when it comes to my petite capsule wardrobe. In terms of wash, that’s entirely down to you.
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ARKET
Snow Straight Jeans
M&S Collection
High Waisted Cropped Slim Fit Jeans
AGOLDE
’90s High-Rise Straight-Leg Jeans
6. Nipped-Waist Blazer
Style Notes: A blazer is a true wardrobe hero—personally I’ve never met one that I didn’t like. While I have boxy styles in my collection, I do prefer how more fitted blazers look on my body. An hourglass or, at the very least, slightly tapered waist adds definition without bulk. I also like slightly longer lengths when it comes to blazers too, as they generally help to lengthen your overall silhouette.
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ALIGNE
Daphne Waisted Blazer
Nobody’s Child
Black Tailored Blazer
7. Kitten-Heel Shoes
While there are a few shoes I would recommend for petites—minimal loafers, knee boots, ballet flats—in the interest of keeping things concise and capsule-like, if I had to choose just one, it would be kitten heels. Personally, I prefer a pointed toe for its elongating properties, while the kitten heel provides that little extra height (just enough to wear longer dresses and trousers) without compromising on comfort.
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Reformation
Wrenley Heeled Slingback
MANOLO BLAHNIK
Turgimod 50 Cutout Elaphe Slingback Pumps
H&M
Kitten-Heeled Pointed Slingbacks
8. Fine Knit Jumper
Style Notes: Chunky knitwear is by no means off limits, but more delicate, lighter weaves will look less cumbersome on petite people. I also prefer them for layering up a look—you can always add insulation by throwing a cardigan overtop. Neutral shades like camel, black, or grey mean I can pair it with every other item in my wardrobe but, again, colour is really down to you and what you enjoy wearing day-to-day; capsule wardrobes are very personal, and if you’re more likely to wear bright orange than you are beige, then that’s the shade you should consider.
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Autograph
Pure Cashmere Crew Neck Jumper
Whistles
Ivory Cashmere Funnel Neck
9. Fluid Shirt
A soft blouse adds polish to jeans, trousers, or skirts. More fluid fabrics like chiffon, satin, silk and viscose will drape on the body as opposed to shrouding it, eliminating any unnecessary bulk. Cropped lengths or tuck-friendly cuts are a bonus for petites, too, so you don’t end up with excess fabric.
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With Nothing Underneath
The Classic Shirt in Navy Blue
Massimo Dutti
Flowing Ramie Blend Shirt
DRIES VAN NOTEN
Casia Oversized Silk-Satin Shirt
