The Petites Size guide
What is considered "petite"?
At The Petite Frame, we believe style is the ultimate form of self-expression - but true style starts with a flawless fit. While "petite" is a common term in the fashion world, its meaning can be a bit nuanced. We’re here to demystify the proportions for you.
What Defines a Petite Fit?
In the most traditional sense, petite refers to stature. If you stand 5’4” or under, petite sizing is designed specifically for your frame, allowing you to skip the trip to the tailor.
However, height isn't the only factor.
At The Petite Frame, we look at proportions:
The "Taller" Petite: Even if you’re 5’4” or so, you might be petite in your torso or your arms.
Mixed Sizing: You might find that you wear a "straight" size in trousers but require a petite fit in tops to ensure the shoulders and sleeves align correctly.
The verdict? If you’ve ever felt like standard clothing is "wearing you" rather than the other way around, you are likely part of the petite community.
More Than Just a Shorter Hem
A common myth is that petite clothing is simply "regular" clothing cut shorter. At The Petite Frame, we know it’s about re-engineering the entire garment so every detail lands exactly where it should.
Finding Your Perfect Fit
If you’re 5’4” or under, you’ll almost certainly find your best fit in our petite collections. If you’re taller but find that standard sleeves are always too long or waistlines sit too low, give petite a try. It’s not about the number on the measuring tape; it’s about how the fabric moves with you.
petite fit check list
Here is a quick Fit Check list to help you audit your current wardrobe. If you find yourself nodding along to more than two of these, your "straight-size" clothes are likely working against your proportions.
Start Here:
1. The Sleeve & Shoulder Test
The Shoulder Drop:
Do the shoulder seams of your blazers or shirts hang off the edge of your natural shoulder line?
The "palm" check:
When your arms are at your sides, do your sleeves cover your knuckles or most of your palm?
The armhole gap:
Can you see your bra through the armholes of sleeveless tops because they hang too low?
2. The Torso & Waist Alignment
The "Low" Waist:
Does the "narrowest" part of your dresses sit closer to your hips than your actual waist?
Fabric Pooling:
Is there a "bubble" of extra fabric sitting right above your bottom or at the small of your back?
The Armhole Gap:
Can you see your bra through the armholes of sleeveless tops because they hang too low?
3. The Leg & Knee Geometry
The "Lowered" Knee:
In skinny or flared jeans, does the narrowest part of the leg hit your mid-calf or shin instead of your knee?
The Crotch Drop:
Does the rise of your pants feel "saggy" or create unwanted folds of fabric in the front?
The Flare Fail:
If you hemmed your favorite flare or bootcut jeans, did you lose the entire "flare" shape in the process?
The results
0-1 checks:
You likely have a long-scale frame; "straight" or "tall" sizes are your best bet.
2–4 Checks:
You are likely "Proportionally Petite." You might need petite sizes for specific items (like tops or dresses) while staying standard in others.
5+ Checks:
You are a True Petite. Transitioning to a petite-engineered wardrobe will likely change your life (and save you a fortune in tailoring).