Although I'm currently in my 20s, I've been 5'2 since the sixth grade. Finding clothes that fit on the first try has always been a constant struggle. There are so many fashion trends that look great on the hangers or mannequins - until you actually try them. If you're a shorty like me, going shopping can be the best or the worst thing that's ever happened to you. Here are just a few of the daily struggles that all short girls can relate to.
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1. Wondering if You Have the Height to Pull off That Maxi Dress
This has the potential to be a total success or utter failure.
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Maxi dresses may seem like the domain of taller women, but it's all about the cut and fit. Shorter fashionistas, fear not! You can rock this look too! Opt for high-waisted styles that elongate your legs or choose a hemline that doesn't drown your frame — think petite sizes or a breezy side slit. A pair of wedges or heels can add those extra inches to perfect the outfit. So go ahead, embrace that flowy fabric and own your style, because it's not about height; it's about attitude.
2. Similarly, when You Say "screw It" and Buy the Dress
...Only to do an awkward shuffle-tango to avoid falling flat on your face. #Shortgirlproblems
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3. When That Cute Shirt You've Been Eyeing for Awhile is Conveniently Placed on the Highest Rack in the Store
Yoga, don't fail me now.
4. Oversized Sweaters Are a Gamble
Stealing your boyfriend's sweater can either be really sexy (which equals cuddle time) or make you look like you're playing hide and seek.
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The key is balance. Pairing an oversized top with more fitted bottoms keeps you from disappearing into a shapeless silhouette. But beware, some sweaters have the magical power to engulf your entire frame, leaving onlookers questioning if you're smuggling a yoga ball under there. Pro tip: a cute belt cinching at your natural waistline can transform that baggy look into a form-flattering fashion statement. So, before you take the plunge into the realm of knitted giants, remember that proportion is your best pal. Your favorite chunky knit should say "chic" not "blanket with sleeves."
5. Shopping Online is Also a Gamble
Since when did retail therapy equal torture?
6. Jeans Make Your Legs Look Nonexistent
Without proper tailoring, your jeans will bring a whole new meaning to cuffing season.
7. Leggings Make Your Ankles Look Nonexistent
The amount of times you have to roll up your waistband to get rid of that awkward bunching is. Too. Damn. High.
8. Midi Skirt? What's That?
Midi skirts and maxi skirts are basically the same thing.
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Actually, midi skirts are a different story. Falling anywhere from below the knee to just above the ankle, they are a fashion minefield for the vertically challenged. It's all about proportions, and hitting the wrong length can make those petite legs look awkwardly truncated. Sure, a chic French gal might pull it off with ballet flats and a sense of nonchalance, but when you're on the shorter side, it often calls for some strategic styling with heels or a cropped top to help elongate the silhouette and avoid the dreaded "I'm-wearing-my-big-sister's-clothes" vibe.
9. Heels Are Your Best Friend and Your Biggest Enemy
You look fierce in them and they upgrade you to supermodel status, which means taking them everywhere is a must. RIP toes.
10. One Word: Jumpsuits
Not only do they hit your crotch at a super awkward angle, they do nothing to balance your leg-to-torso ratio.
11. Two Words: Bright Prints
Good luck getting out of the "You're HOW old, again??" zone.
12. Three Words: Long Sleeve Shirts
Getting tangled in your sleeves is like hugging yourself in advance for all of your future shopping troubles. #EverydayImStruggling
What are some of the struggles that you go through when you're getting dressed?
Comments
Marmar99: I'm 5 feet :'D
Nychicky: I'm 5'0 but curvy (not fat)it is hard because you can't buy petite!
KADIJAA: It's hard being 5'1
Caro: Im 5'! And do relate to a few of those! 😜
Amy: I'm 5'1" & 23 years old. People think I'm in high school.
Adriana: Yes!! I haven't found a perfect maxi dress 😂
RKylii: this explains exactly what happend to me yesterday😂 #LittleLadies
Pat: I have several friends who are barely 5'0" tall. I sympathize sooooo much!
j: I'm 4'10 & 23. Ppl tend to give me dirty looks when I'm holding my 3 month baby 🙈 Since they think I'm still in high school
Aali-died: So relatable I'm 4'11 and almost 15 and still haven't reached 5 feet
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