Petite Styling Tips: Effortless Ways to Choose Shoes That Flatter

As the saying goes, "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step," but we all know that first step can be a bit tricky without the right pair of shoes. And if you're a petite fashionista like me, finding shoes that fit our unique proportions can be a real challenge! 

Today, we are excited to share some tips and tricks that will make your shoe shopping experience a breeze. Whether you're looking for shoes that add some height, create the illusion of longer legs, or simply fit your feet perfectly, we've got you covered. So, get comfortable and let's dive into some helpful tips for petite shoe shopping!

Disclaimer:

Just a friendly heads up - this site contains Amazon affiliate links for the shoes that I'll be talking about. If you do end up making a purchase through my links, I may receive a small commission, but don't worry, it won't cost you anything extra. All opinions on this site are my own, and I want you to know that there's no pressure or obligation to buy anything. It's essential to choose shoes that you truly love and feel comfortable wearing. It's also important to know that I'm not a physical trainer, so the opinions I share are purely my own and not professional advice. 

As we strive to create original and authentic content, we kindly ask for your support in not reproducing or copying our blog post content without our permission. By doing so, we can ensure that our readers receive high-quality and unique information. We value your trust and appreciate your understanding.

As our brand specializes in resort style, we'll begin with 5 tips that are specifically geared toward choosing shoes that are perfect for a resort getaway:

1. Look for shoes with a low-cut vamp:
   Let's start with one of the most important factors when it comes to petite shoe shopping: the vamp.
   
   When it comes to finding the perfect shoes for petite frames, the vamp of the shoe can make a big difference in how your legs and body look. The vamp is the part of the shoe that covers the top of your foot, and shoes with a lower vamp can work wonders in making your legs look longer and your body taller.
   
   Ballet shoes are a type of low vamp shoe that is very popular among dancers and athletes because they allow for greater foot flexibility due to their low-cut design. In addition to their functional benefits, ballet shoes also have a sleek and simple design that makes them a versatile choice for everyday wear, adding both comfort and style to any outfit.
   
   If you're petite, you can use the same low-cut vamp design to your advantage when shopping for shoes. Shoes such as flats, pumps, or sandals with a lower vamp will show more of your foot and create a longer line from your toes to your ankle, making your legs look longer and leaner. It's worth noting that the vamp length that works best for you may depend on your individual proportions, so it's important to try on different styles to see what looks and feels best on you. With the right shoe, you can create a longer, more proportionate look for your petite frame. 
   
   I came across a low vamp shoe style that I think is both versatile and comfortable, thanks to its cushioned sole. However, it's worth noting that this shoe style has a pointed toe, so you might want to consider sizing up for a better fit.

   

2. Choose heels that are proportionate to your body:
   Choosing the right height and shape of heels can be crucial for petite women. If the heels are too high, they can throw off the proportions of your body and make you look disproportionate. On the other hand, heels that are too chunky or heavy can weigh down your frame and make you look smaller than you actually are.
   
   The key is to choose heels that are proportionate to your body size. A moderate heel height, such as 2 to 3 inches (approximately 5 to 8 centimeters), is a good option for most petite women. Classic styles like pumps or kitten heels are a great choice because they are timeless and versatile, and they can easily pair with different outfits. They also tend to have a sleek and elegant shape that can elongate your legs and create a flattering silhouette.
   
   Comfort is also important when choosing heels. Look for shoes with a well-cushioned insole and a stable heel for added support. And don't forget to break in your shoes before wearing them for an extended period to avoid blisters or discomfort. 
   
   I personally prefer a lower heel since I'm not used to wearing high ones, and I recently found a great pair of shoes that work for me. They're the strappy slip on heels, and I love that they have a heel height of only ~1.8 inches (4.5 cm). The light purple color also blends in nicely with my legs, and the strap style highlights the front of my feet. This shoe style is also available in different colors, which is an added bonus.

   

3. Choose ankle straps with care:
   Now, let's talk about ankle strap shoes. While they may work for other body types, they can be particularly tricky for us petites. Ankle straps can cut off the leg line and make our legs appear shorter and bulkier. But don't worry, there's a solution!
   
   Choosing the right ankle strap shoes that blend in with your skin tone can be a game-changer for us petite women. Wearing ankle strap shoes in nude or skin-toned shades can help create a seamless, elongating line from our feet to our legs, visually elongating our frame. This is especially important for us petite women who want to create the illusion of longer legs and an overall elongated silhouette.  

   

4. Embrace pointed toes:
   Embracing pointed-toe shoes is a simple yet effective way to flatter your petite frame. Pointed-toe shoes create a streamlined look that elongates the leg line, making your legs appear longer and leaner. You can try pointed-toe flats for a casual yet sophisticated look or pointed-toe pumps for a dressier option. Pointed-toe boots can also be a great option for fall and winter outfits, providing both style and function.
   
   Imagine yourself wearing a pair of pointed-toe pumps with a knee-length skirt or dress. The pointed toe helps to visually extend your legs, while the heel adds height and definition to your calves. Alternatively, you can try a pair of pointed-toe flats with cropped pants or jeans. The streamlined shape of the shoe will balance out the shorter length of your pants, creating a cohesive and polished look.
   
   In my opinion, this ankle-high boot would look great in both the neutral (tan) and classic black colors. If you go for the black option, it would look fabulous paired with leggings, a cozy poncho or a sweater dress, making it a perfect choice for a chic fall or winter outfit. On the other hand, the tan color is incredibly versatile and can be effortlessly paired with numerous outfits for any occasion. 

   
5. Opt for nude or skin-toned shoes:
   Opting for nude or skin-toned shoes creates an illusion of longer legs because they blend in with your skin tone, creating a seamless line from your legs to your feet. This uninterrupted line draws the eye upward and makes your legs appear longer.
   
   In our previous blog post, we talked about finding your unique style that flatters your skin tone. The same concept applies to choosing the right shoe color. It's essential to choose a shoe color that matches your skin tone as closely as possible to maximize the effect. By doing so, you can create an elongating effect on your legs and make them look leaner.
   
   If nude is not your color, you can also try shoes in other neutral shades such as beige or light grey, which can achieve a similar effect. Neutral tones are versatile and can easily pair with a variety of outfits, making them a great investment for any petite woman's shoe collection. 

We're almost at the end of our petite shoe shopping journey, but before we wrap up, we have just a couple more tips to share for other occasions:

1. Try platform shoes:
   Platform shoes are a great option for those who want to add some extra height to their look without sacrificing comfort. Unlike high heels, platform shoes have a thick sole that raises the foot and adds height without increasing the angle of the foot. This means that platform shoes provide the height boost that you desire without putting unnecessary pressure on your feet. Additionally, the chunky appearance of platform shoes can help balance out petite frames and create a more proportional look.
   
   Platform shoes come in various styles, making them versatile for any outfit or occasion. From sandals to sneakers to ankle boots, there is a pair of platform shoes for everyone. The added height that platform shoes provide can also create the illusion of longer legs, which is a great benefit for petite women. However, it's important to choose a platform that is proportionate to your body size to avoid overwhelming your frame.
   
   When selecting platform shoes, look for ones with a lower platform that is proportionate to your body size. A platform that is too high or chunky can make us appear top-heavy and unbalanced. With the right pair of platform shoes, we can add some height to the look while feeling confident and comfortable. 
   
   I have found a platform shoe style that I believe would be suitable for resort styles and travel. Interestingly, it has both a pointed toe and a low vamp, just like we discussed earlier! 

   

2. Experiment with different styles:
   Petites often feel like their options are limited when it comes to shoes. However, there are actually plenty of shoe styles that can work for petite frames, it's just a matter of finding the right ones for your unique proportions and personal style. 
   
   The key is to not limit yourself and to try on different styles to see what works best for you. It's important to keep in mind your individual proportions, but also to have fun and experiment with different looks. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. With the right shoes, petites can feel confident and stylish, no matter what their height! 
   
   Personally, I think the ankle bow heeled sandal is adorable and would make a great addition to any dress outfit.

   

I hope you found these tips helpful and that they will make your search for the perfect shoes a little easier. If you're looking for more fashion inspiration, don't forget to check out our previous blog posts on finding your unique style and creating a capsule wardrobe. These resources can help you refine your personal style and build a wardrobe that reflects your personality and lifestyle.

We believe that fashion should be fun and empowering, and we hope our blog posts have helped you feel more confident and stylish.

Thanks for reading! 😊