As a fashion editor, a large part of my job consists of keeping watch for each season’s biggest trends.
Whether analysing runway looks or refreshing TikTok (all in the name of research, of course), I spend a good part of my day eating, sleeping and scrolling fashion content so I can predict and pre-empt what we’re all going to be adding to our baskets in the coming months. Yet, whilst I’d like to think I’ve become somewhat of an expert at spotting trends before they’re trending, so to speak, I must admit, when it comes to incorporating them into my own wardrobe, it doesn’t always go quite as smoothly. Any fellow petite person will know the struggle: what looks good on a model (or influencer) doesn’t always translate for those of us 5’4” and under.
Over the years, however, I’ve found that rather than diving headfirst into every trend, being selective about which ones work best on a petite frame is the answer. Thankfully, when it comes to spring/summer 2025 trends, we’re spoilt for choice. You see, not only do they deliver on the style front, but many of spring’s biggest trends can easily be translated for shorter heights, thanks to a few clever styling hacks. Plus, for those who want to give the illusion of being taller than they are (not a requirement but a camp I fall into), there are a whole host of trends that can be used to our advantage.
So, to help you navigate the style season ahead, I’ve pulled together a handy guide on the best spring trends that are perfect for petite frames—no trip to the tailor necessary. Keep scrolling to see them for yourself.
The Best Spring Fashion Trends for Petites, According to a Fashion Editor
1. Colour-Drench Dressing
Style Notes: Colour-drench or tonal dressing, where someone wears one shade from top-to-toe, has been trending for a few seasons now, but it’s a look that is showing no sign of slowing down for S/S 25. This is a great trend for petite women, as by wearing one single column of colour, you can elongate your proportions, giving the illusion of extra inches. Whilst I love Julie Sergent Ferreri’s bright co-ord here, this look can be translated to any tone, so if bold colour isn’t your style, try wearing top-to-toe cream or black for a more minimalist finish.
Shop the Trend:
Toteme
Embroidered Silk-Twill Shirt
Leave untucked for a more relaxed fit.
Toteme
Embroidered Silk-Twill Wide-Leg Pants
Pyjama-inspired styling with a luxe twist.
Mejuri
Chunky Large U Hoops
& Other Stories
Floral-Embroidered Ballet Flats
2. Maxi Lengths
Style Notes: When it comes to this season’s trending dress and skirt styles, maxi lengths are the way to go. Whilst you may think these floor-grazing styles would overwhelm petite frames, they actually do the opposite, elongating by drawing the eye downwards. When shopping for the perfect maxi-length pieces, if you can’t find a style you like in the petite section, opt for midi lengths from main collections, as they’ll usually hit full length on those 5’4” and under.
Shop the Trend:
A ribbed vest will work hard in your wardrobe.
Free People
Free-Est Lowen Midi Skirt
This midi style will double as a maxi on petite heights.
Every great wardrobe needs a classic black bag.
AEYDE
Nettie leather sandals
3. Cuffed Jeans
Style Notes: I’m a huge fan of denim; however, as I’m sure you know, it isn’t always easy to find great-fitting petite jeans. Thankfully, one of this season’s trending jean styles, the cuffed jean, makes it a little bit easier. Simply turn up a pair of regular jeans to achieve the perfect length—no alterations necessary!
Shop the Trend:
M&S Collection
Cotton Rich Ribbed Slim Fit T-Shirt
Abercrombie & Fitch
High Rise 90s Relaxed Jean
Abercrombie’s jeans come in both short and extra-short lengths.
Bottega Veneta
Ciao Ciao in Matcha
Khaite
Kyanite Loop 35 Snake-Effect Leather Sandals
A low heel will give extra inches without sacrificing comfort.
4. Sculpted Tailoring
Style Notes: Tailoring is one of my favourite petite styling hacks to ensure I not only look chic and sophisticated but also don’t get confused for someone much younger than I am! Rather than oversized styles, opt for fitted shapes, like slim-fit waistcoats and sculpted blazers. They won’t swamp petite frames and still tap into this season’s love for suiting.
Shop the Trend:
This scoop-neck waistcoat is the perfect cherry-red hue.
Reformation
Petites Alex Mid Rise Pant
These can double as chic office trousers.
Tan tones give a vintage feel to the look.
Dune
Loupe Flat Slider Sandals
The perfect go-with-everything sandal.
5. Sporty Stripes
Style notes: If you checked out our S/S 25 trend report, you’ll know that sports-inspired outfits were all over the spring/summer runways. To give the trend a petite-friendly spin, shop for styles that feature athletic stripes as part of their sporty design. Much like vertical-stripe prints, these clever lines create a lengthening effect, acting as an optical illusion for added height.
Shop the Trend:
Adidas
Premium Originals Rib Dress
Adidas Originals
Samba OG Trainers
Still the ultimate fashion-person trainer of choice.
4th & Reckless
White Branded Half Zip Cropped Sweatshirt
M&S
Jersey Side Stripe Wide Leg Trousers
For an elevated look, pair with a white shirt and loafers.
6. Draped Shapes
Style notes: I’m still not over the boho revival, and it’s a trend I predict we’re going to be seeing much more of in S/S 25, especially when it comes to spring weddings and events. On petite frames, I recommend using these floaty, draped shapes to your advantage by opting for light fabrics which skim the full length of your outfit. Not only will they add a softness to your look, but the delicate draping will give you a statuesque appearance no matter your height.
Shop the Trend:
Mango
Pleated 3/4 Sleeve Dress
The clever pleates will elongate a petite frame.
Zara
Patent-Effect Slingback Heels
These look much more expensive than their price tag.
TALLER MARMO
Berenson Draped One-Shoulder Fringed Crepe Gown
Perfect for hen parties and pre-wedding events.
Charles & Keith
Asymmetric Strappy Heeled Sandals
You’ll get so much wear out of these.
7. Shirt Styling
Style notes: If you’re looking for a fresh way to rework your favourite shirts and blouses this season, I’ve got you. On the runways, shirts were left loose and unbuttoned, creating a deep V which cleverly draws the eye downwards—a great styling hack for petite frames. If you don’t want to go bra-free, make like Jessica Skye and layer a white T-shirt underneath for an interesting texture clash and added coverage.
Shop the Trend:
This shirt comes in seven shades for all denim tastes.
Agolde
’90s Pinch Waist High-Rise Straight-Leg Organic Jeans
A staple straight-leg style.
Loewe
Puzzle Edge Small Textured-Leather Shoulder Bag
Take a break from classic black.
COS
Leather Ballerina Flats
