These are some of the clothes I reach for on these cold mornings when I want to be warm, comfortable and of course stylish.
Style Tip:
I'm one of those people who feels the cold so layering is really important to me to keep me warm. Layering is always the way to go for us petites as thick woolly jumpers make us look short and squat because we loose our body shape. Who wants to look like a "sack of potatoes"?
Layering gives us the opportunity to add in extra colour and try different combinations, either blending or contrasting. A few tops worn in many combinations is the secret to a good capsule wardrobe as it creates many outfits. Having more looks from fewer, well chosen clothes that fit and compliment our shorter body shape, will save us money and the choice makes dressing in the morning simpler and more fun.
I start with the long sleeved Olivia top (available in lilac, white and stone). This top not only looks really smart on it's own, but is a great base layer as it is made of Meryl a brilliant fabric which wicks any moisture away from the body, keeping me and my clothes fresh and dry. It washes like a dream too, and doesn't need ironing if you hang it up while damp. If it shows at the neckline, I don't worry because it's shaping means that it still looks right, like a camisole.
Then I pop on another of my tops such an an Ellie crossover top, Alicia or Polly polo (sorry not many left, will do more of this type of garment next autumn). There are also some sizes left of Jessica, Lottie and Kirsty which are great for layering too.
My Grace fine knit merino wool jumper also looks fab over Olivia as the blend or contrast colour of Olivia comes through the crochet.
I can create many looks from these to go with my Alicia, Erica, Chloe (beige) and Stellar skirts as well as my fab new high waisted Sarah trousers. Alternatively, I reach for one of my yummy petite dresses, Twiggy, Eliza, Gloria or Valentine. All you need with these dresses or skirts is a 40 denier pair of tights and your shoes (the more colourful the better) or boots. Finally, I finish off all these looks with a cardigan - Kelly or Alicia, even Kina works well. I love all these looks.
Layering is not only about keeping warm, comfortable and stylish, I feel I am also dressing for the planet and the pound in my pocket by keeping my heating bills down. Going outside, my Hattie coat and scarf is a garment I reach for if I am just popping out in my car, going shopping etc. It's lightweight, not bulky and warm, as it has a touch of wool in it (unlike many coats).
For a smarter look, say for work, I wear one of my Brigitte or Audrey suit jackets with a large Pashmina over the top. However, my Clarissa coat is vital if I am going to be outside for any length of time, I just wouldn't stand on a train station without it. This coat is long and sleek so, as well as keeping my whole body snuggly warm it gives me height, unlike many bulky, wide coats which makes a petite look like 'Queen Elizabeth 1st on castors'. I know this is a big investment, but it's about a classically styled coat perfect for petites, it's top quality and a lifetimes warmth. I have very few of these left, so don't miss out!
If, unlike me, you are naturally a warmer blooded person then I think layering also works perfectly for you as you can put on, or take off, as many layers as you need.
Whatever your needs, it's easy as a petite to look good whilst staying comfortable with my collection.
"Happiness is pretty, petite layering"
