3 Summer Shorts Outfits That Elongate Petite Women’s Legs
As a petite woman, I used to avoid wearing shorts. That is, until I discovered the styles that best showed off my legs.
And so today, the focus is on three of those styles: denim, Bermuda, and colored shorts. Not only are these shorts types flattering for us shorter girls, but they’re also timeless styles.
Below I show you how to style these three classic styles that are the perfect answer to hotter days. Whether you’re headed to the beach, a weekend getaway, or shopping with friends, these looks won’t disappoint.
Bermuda shorts Outfit
It’s been many many seasons of trending Bermuda shorts and frankly, I don’t see them going anywhere. So regardless of your height, grab yourself a pair.
To help elongate your legs, be sure to select a pair of Bermudas that fall at least several inches above the knee. High-waisted and wider-legged styles (like the pair I’m wearing) are also especially flattering on petites.
A neutral-toned pair is always a safe bet but why not go for ones in a fun print or pattern such as gingham or plaid.
And plaid is a print that’s not just for fall. A pair in cool blue tones in the right fit for hot summer days and pleated plaid Bermudas are the perfect current style.
Style your walking shorts with a graphic t-shirt and white socks with loafers for a charming soft grunge meets back-to-school chic look.
This fit gives me major Gossip Girl 2.0.
– OUTFIT DETAILS –
NAVY LOAFERS | By Blanch (similar by Matt & Nat)
BELT | Peta + Jain (current styles by Peta + Jain)
PURSE | Kinds of Grace use code HARMFREEFASHION for 20% off
SUNGLASSES | Emporio Armani (current styles by Emporio Armani)
Mom jeans Outfit
Petites can never go wrong with jean shorts and while short shorts will have their time in the sun (no pun intended), longer-length mom-style denim shorts are a classic choice that also look good on almost all body types (including short girls).
Select a high-waisted version to create the appearance that you have longer legs and use a belt to cinch in the waist. Pair with a whimsical cottagecore blouse for a girly look or opt for animal print for something more exotic.
By styling with socks and sneakers (use coupon code HARMFREEFASHION for 15% off this pair from Humans Are Vain) you’re ready for all activities outside of work.
Wear with a brightly colored crossbody purse (red, pink, and pastel shades are all good choices) to show you’re ready to have some fun in the sun.
– OUTFIT DETAILS –
CHUNKY WHITE SNEAKERS | Humans Are Vain use code HARMFREEFASHION for 15% off
ORGANIC COTTON SOCKS | Pact
BELT | Peta + Jain (current styles by Peta + Jain)
PURSE | Angela Roi (current styles by Angela Roi)
Neon shorts Outfit
Shorter shorts are an easy style for smaller women to wear because they expose more leg, which naturally causes the eye to create length.
By opting for a statement-making pair (such as one in a wild print or a bold color like neon green) it can give you an added boost of confidence. And that jolt of confidence will cause you to stand up straighter and taller, thus tricking people into thinking your height is greater than it is.
Give this hack a try yourself, regardless of what you’re wearing and see how people respond.
A pair of neon green mini shorts also happens to fit a lot of current trends (neon colors, anything green, and short hemlines) but could any of these latest trends really be considered trends. I mean, when is the color green out of style?
In any case, I say that today and every day is the time to embrace bright shades and what better way than with a tic tac color palette. Color block your way into summer with punchy orange and neon lime, the ultimate citrus shades to quench your fashion thirst.
You can keep the footwear of this statement-making outfit simple and go with white sneakers or use colorful dad sandals to keep the palette fresh.
– OUTFIT DETAILS –
NEON SANDALS | Birkenstock
PURSE | Peta + Jain (current styles by Peta + Jain)
SUNGLASSES | Polaroid (current styles by Polaroid)
Final Thoughts
If you’re petite, then shorts should be your best friend. You can’t go wrong with any of these classic styles and short styles seem to have a longer cycle (think of how many seasons bike shorts have hung on) than some of the other more fleeting trends (remember the dirty sneakers trend? yeah I didn’t think so), which means Bermudas, denim, and colored shorts seem to be here for the long haul, so get styling.
For more styling hacks for petites check out my other posts for short girls on:
Looking for more summer styling inspiration? Check out my other posts on How to Style Green Clothing for Summer; Timeless Skirt Lengths for Summer; Track Jacket Summer Style Ideas; Trending Dress Styles for Summer; Dad Shirt Style Tips; How to Wear Pink for Summer; Easy Summer Vacation Outfits; and Black & White Outfits for Summer.
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As always, happy thrifting and styling.
Thanks so much for reading and taking the time to leave a kind comment! 💛
Michelle Rothenburger
Michelle Rothenburger is a vegan fashion blogger whose work has been featured in such publications as Marie Claire, InStyle, Woman & Home, and Vilda. Find out more by reading Michelle’s full story (from bullied to fashion influencer) and feel free to send her a personal message.
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