Ask Our Style Techs | Print Pants for Petites

Q: I love the ultra-patterned pants that are in stores right now, but I’m petite and having trouble finding some that work for my body type. Help! – Mara K.

A: One of the trickier fashion trends to wear, there is an art to choosing the right graphic print or patterned pants, especially when you are petite. It’s easy to have a print on your bottom half make you look shorter than you are, not to mention the print can overwhelm your frame. Never fear, Mom Style Lab to the rescue! We have some tips to help you find the perfect pair.

Look for a print or pattern that is vertical and elongating. This could mean a tuxedo stripe down the side or simply that when you step back from the print, you see a vertical flow to the design vs. a horizontal one. Check out our styled outfits below for ideas.

Always wear with a heel. Pumps, wedges or platforms — pick the style you prefer, are most comfortable in, and pair best with the look of the pants.

All cuts are not created equal. Avoid voluminous pants and look for styles that skim your body or have a tailor take them in if you are love with a certain print.

Make sure your pant length hits at the right spot. If they’re too short, your legs will look shorter. With straight or narrow-leg pants, they should cover your ankle and top of your shoe and break right before they start to bag at the bottom. With a wide-leg pant, they should reach almost to the floor without dragging.

Proportion is key. If you are curvy, go for a wide-leg pant and chunky shoe that will help balance out your figure. Those of you with broad shoulders and/or a larger chest should wear a darker color like navy or black on top to downplay your top half and play up the printed bottoms.