What To Wear If You Have Short Legs: Style Rules To Lengthen Your Legs

If you weren't blessed with mile-long legs and can't imagine living in heels there's no need to panic. Just because you have short legs doesn't mean everyone has to know! If you know what to wear, you can instantly add a few inches to your bottom half. Here are all the tips and tricks you need to know to make the most out of the stems you were born with.

No, short-stemmed girls may not get to strut their stuff down the runway, but there are certain perks to being vertically challenged. Sure, we may be closer to the ground, but we can wear heels without overshadowing our boyfriend and can tie our shoes without falling to the floor. The best part about having short legs is that when you dress properly, you can make it seem as though your legs are longer than they are.

We understand your #shortgirlproblems, and we're here to help! Follow these tips and we guarantee you will add at least 3 inches to your height instantly!

Your short leg shopping list:

High-waisted trousers
Mini skirts
Jackets no longer than your hips
Monochromatic suits
A-line skater skirts
Empire-waist dresses
Maxis
Vertical stripes
Nude heels
Platforms

Here's why they work...

1. Go high

By wearing bottoms with a higher waistline, your legs will appear loads longer. High-waisted trousers and shorts allow you to decide where your legs will start and your torso will end. Whether you prefer denim, satin or prints, high-waisted is always the way to go.

2. The shorter the skirt, the longer the legs

Now we're not telling you to wear a belt around your waist, but we are telling you to make sure your skirt is no longer than above the knee. When you show more skin, it gives the illusion that your legs are longer than they really are because the ratio of skin to fabric is larger. Wear opaque black tights in the winter time for a year round leggy look.

3. Shape-framing jackets

Don't hide your body with over-sized jackets and coats. Instead, embrace your proportions by wearing fitted, cropped jackets that will help distinguish your shape, and establish a waistline.

4. Monochromatic magic

Wearing one colour allows the eye to see an elongated silhouette since there is no blocking of colours. Whether you choose a neutral tone like grey or nude, or dare to be bold in a royal blue, this style rule is definitely one to follow in as it will not only leave you looking longer, but will have you looking like an instant fashion icon.

5. Skater chic

A-line skater skirts are great for girls with short legs because they lead the eye away from the hips, allowing the focus to be on your waist. Not to mention, they're easy to walk in!

6. Wonderful waistlines

Empire-waist dresses are a no-brainer for women with little legs. By accentuating the smallest part of your form, you hide the starting point of your legs making them look infinite. Another great trick is adding a belt to cinch your waistline.

7. Maxis are your BFF

This is by far our favourite fashion tip, and it works well for women of all shapes and sizes. Many girls are afraid maxis will leave them looking short and wide under layers of chiffon and silks but the trick is to wear a maxi that is the perfect floor-length with a pair of heels on. Simply put on a pair of platforms and you'll instantly add a few inches to your legs, and no one will ever known you're cheating!

8. It's all about the illusion

Vertical stripes will help create a long & lean silhouette. Look for pinstripes, thin stripes, and any vertical print to trick the eyes of those around you!

9. Nude heels are a necessity

Every girl should have a go-to pair of nude heels to wear religiously. Not only do they match with everything, but they elongate your legs by creating a continuous line of your skin tone rather than breaking up the foot and leg with contrasting colours.

Fashion DON'T: Make sure you stay away from thick ankle strap shoes that will cut off your leg, they will leave you looking a lot shorter than you actually are!

10. Platforms are always a plus

Anytime you can add an extra 2-3 inches to your height, take advantage of it! Platforms and wedges are a great way to elevate your height and style. For summer, invest in a pair of flatforms that are comfortable for walking in!