Dress length depends on your height and desired style, but generally, shorter individuals (around 5'0"-5'2") suit dresses that hit above the knee or at the shin (tea-length), while taller people (5'9"+) can comfortably wear maxi or floor-length gowns, with mid-calf (midi) lengths working well for most by hitting the slimmest part of the leg, often just below the knee or mid-calf, though petite frames might need to hem midis to avoid looking shorter.
I read somewhere that if you want to look taller, you should show 1/3 torso and 2/3 legs. And if you're wearing a dress, it should hit either mid-thigh, a bit pass the knees but not a couple inches above the ankles.
For a 5'2" woman, flattering dress lengths include mini (for longer-looking legs), knee-length, just above/below the knee, or ankle-length maxis, while avoiding hemlines that hit at mid-calf (the thickest part of the leg) to prevent shortening your frame; the key is showing skin (legs) or creating an unbroken vertical line. Mini and knee-length create leg length, while ankle-length maxis elongate the body, and A-line/wrap styles are great choices.
Dress Styling Tips by Height
The 3-3-3 clothing rule is a simple styling method for creating many outfits from few items: choose 3 tops, 3 bottoms, and 3 shoes, which allows for 27 potential combinations (3x3x3) and reduces decision fatigue, often used for travel or building a minimalist capsule wardrobe. It's a versatile concept, sometimes expanded to include 3 layers (like jackets or cardigans) for even more looks, making dressing easier by focusing on mix-and-match versatility with core pieces.
The standard hem length for a formal gown is designed to graze the floor, with an allowance of 0.5 to 1 inch above the ground. This length ensures ease of movement without compromising the gown's elegance.
The most universally flattering dress length is often considered to be knee-length, as it hits at a naturally narrow part of the leg, creating a balanced, classic proportion (the one-third bare leg to two-thirds covered look). However, the best length depends on your body type and height; minis flatter petite frames and long legs, while maxis elongate taller figures, and midis are versatile but should ideally avoid the widest part of the calf.
The 70/30 rule in fashion is a wardrobe strategy where 70% of your closet consists of timeless, versatile basics (like quality jeans, neutral tops) that form the foundation of many outfits, while the remaining 30% is reserved for trendy, statement, or fun pieces that add personality and flair, ensuring your style is both practical and current without being overly fast-fashion driven. It helps create outfits by mixing staple items with expressive accessories or bold pieces, making your wardrobe more functional and less stressful.
Vertical Lines are Your BFF
Look for pieces with vertical stripes, seams, or even pleats to elongate your frame. Pro tip: Avoid horizontal lines, as they can make you look wider instead of taller. The eye naturally goes to a change of color or texture, that is why horizontal lines are not a short girls bff.
Wear More Fitted Silhouettes
While you don't have to go full bodycon, I find that less volume creates more height, and the more you can define your petite figure in a longer dress, the less likely you'll be to get totally swallowed up by it.
What is the golden ratio for dress length? The golden ratio is approximately 1.618 for the most flattering dress length. It creates two segments from shoulder to toe, the shorter segment is 1/1.618 of the total length. This creates a dress length just below the knee, or at the narrowest part of the calf.
If you're going to wear a short dress or skirt, don't be afraid to go quite short! Doing so will really elongate the appearance of your legs. Knee length skirts will actually make you look shorter - so try to go above the knee.
The average hip size for adult women in the United States typically falls between 36 and 40 inches (91 to 102 centimeters).
Choosing Your Size
Waistline measurements
Our research shows that a waistline of more than 94cm for men and 80cm for women increases the risk for some types of cancer, while a waistline of more than 102cm for men and 88cm for women greatly increases your risk.
The 3-3-3 clothing rule is a simple styling method for creating many outfits from few items: choose 3 tops, 3 bottoms, and 3 shoes, which allows for 27 potential combinations (3x3x3) and reduces decision fatigue, often used for travel or building a minimalist capsule wardrobe. It's a versatile concept, sometimes expanded to include 3 layers (like jackets or cardigans) for even more looks, making dressing easier by focusing on mix-and-match versatility with core pieces.
For a 5'2" woman, flattering dress lengths include mini (for longer-looking legs), knee-length, just above/below the knee, or ankle-length maxis, while avoiding hemlines that hit at mid-calf (the thickest part of the leg) to prevent shortening your frame; the key is showing skin (legs) or creating an unbroken vertical line. Mini and knee-length create leg length, while ankle-length maxis elongate the body, and A-line/wrap styles are great choices.
The ideal length for a maxi dress varies depending on personal preference and body type. However, a general rule of thumb is that the dress should be long enough to touch the floor or fall just above the ankle. This length will create a flowing and elegant look that is perfect for various occasions.
All our tops are slim and tapered, and we sell jeans, chinos, trousers and joggers in a variety of fits from a 34 inseam, which generally fits men up to about 6'3" (190cm) and a 36 inch leg will generally fit men from around 6'3" to 6'6" (190-200cm).
For many brands, a numeric size like 32 usually refers to a waist measurement in inches. In men's clothing, a 32-inch waist often falls into the Medium (M) category.