Who Wears Short Shorts?

The answer: American Eagle and Hollister do! Just in time for spring (well, the fashion industry's spring), both stores have introduced their latest shortie shorts, in denim, twill and nylon.
Check out Hollister's ultra-cute and ultra-dark Stone Steps Beach ($34.50), or American Eagle's light wash Studded Denim Shortie shorts ($39.50).
For an adorable preppy look, try the AE Favorite Short ($29.50, with a choice of eight cool colors like Radiant Coral and Lime Sprout). Or try HCo's patterned Surfer's Knoll ($34.50).
The best beach look, hands down, has to be Surfrider's Beach ($29.50, from Hollister), which is available in white, pink, bright turquoise and navy. You'll be sure to stand out on the waves or in the sand in these.
So this spring, don't forget to go short!

Less is More!

Have you ever wondered why less actually is more? It's hard to get a real answer for that one, but one possible answer (for petites anyway), is that less makes you look "more", and by that I mean taller. In this case, the shorter the dress, the longer and leaner you'll look...to a point, of course (I'm not suggesting skimpy dresses, just ones that fall above the knee).
It's almost the season for dresses, and with all the styles out there, it's easy to be confused about which ones look best on your frame. Maxidresses are a no-no for petites; they are way too overwhelming. That's where a shorter dress comes in.
If the fabric only falls to your knees, it will really elongate your legs and make them look miles long. Also, a fitted look is nice; it will create curves but not look too trashy.
Try Hollister's Sycamore Cove ($49.50) for a classic, cute dress. If you're more conscious about your arms, El Porto Beach ($24.50) offers the perfect solution: three quarter length sleeves. And wherever you go, seek out styles that have an empire-style waist and a smaller bust area!

Spring Ahead!

What's hot this spring? Updated pastels, bright florals and cute short shorts!
While Hollister still offers their winter 2009 apparel in stores and online, they have a preview of springwear to come on their website. Check out Faria Beach ($39.50), a classic plaid shirt that looks springy with its pastel palette. Or Clobberstones ($49.50), an adorable summery dress with a tropical flair. And the shorts (1000 Steps Beach, $34.50) (Stone Steps Beach, $34.50) are also not to be missed and are perfect for springtime picnics and shopping sprees.
If these don't appeal to you, check out their other new tops, available online only until February 12. Happy shopping!

Springy, Swingy Skirts

Wanna know about a spring trend before anyone else does? The answer is...spring-like skirts.
They're popping up everywhere, from Hollister to American Eagle. They come in florals, solids and other patterns. And they're one step ahead of the summery miniskirt, because they have a longer knee-length fit.
These breezy skirts are perfect for a spring picnic, shopping with the girls and even a cute fashion statement at school. They look great with solid or graphic tees (for a more casual look) and blouses or tanks (for a dressier style).
Check out AE's Ditzy Floral Skirt in blue or chalk ($34.50) for a sweet daytime look. Or Hollister's Swami's Beach ($49.50) for school. And AE's Nautical Skirt looks nice enough to wear to work and on a date.

Accesorize Wisely!

It's not all about the perfect jeans, or the cute top. Sometimes, the accesories really make (or break) the outfit.
You may think, "What's the big deal? How can I possibly not know how to pick the right accesories? It's all about matching, isn't it?" But that's wrong. It's good to match, of course, but you don't want to end up with a look that's too matchy-matchy. Instead, look for a necklace, handbag or shoes that draws out one of the colors in your outfit--this will really make it pop!
For petites, though, it's also about scale. And by that I mean, don't get something that's too big for your frame. Don't pick out an over-the-top statement necklace; get a more delicate version that still screams, "Cute!". And skip the huge totes in favor of smaller purses (unless, of course, you have a lot to carry, but you should still stick with the not-so-big bags).
If you want to enhance your outfit, without overwhelming your frame, use these tips the next time you go acccesory-shopping for the perfect style, every time.

End-of-Season Clearance At American Eagle!

While most of us are well-aware that winter has barely begun, the clothing world is already a step ahead of us: they are already getting rid of their cold-weather merchandise. But that's good news for anyone with a small budget and a big need (or maybe just want) for some winter apparel.
American Eagle Outiftters is currently having a great sale on tights, outerwear and even their ever-popular jeans. Some styles of socks are as cheap as $3.95, stylish tights are available for $6.95, flats cost as little as $11.95 and jeans range from $29.95-$59.50! Most coats and vests, perfect for chilly days, are also great deals.
Take advantage of end-of-season sales to get your winter gear cheap and before it disappears!

Petite Pick of January

I am starting a new type of post that will appear every month: my Petite Pick. It's a showcase of a recent (or not so recent) outfit I have purchased that really highlights a petite figure in a flattering way.
This month's pick is the AE Classic Cardigan in bell navy (now in clearance for $19.95), a blue floral babydoll tank from Hollister, the AE Slim Boot jean in deep indigo and the AE Cable Knit Clog in grey (also only $19.95).
Cardigans are very flattering for petites because they don't drown you and hit above the waist for a torso-lengthening look. Also, they are great to throw on before class or even a night out on the town, and can be easily dressed up or down.
The babydoll style tank is perfect, because it is dressy enough so you look put-together for day time but isn't too elegant. The style is also great, because it enhances smaller bustlines. And the floral pattern is big enough to draw attention to your small figure but not overwhelm it.
The slim boot cut jeans are just right; they don't tend to drag on the floor like regular flares do and the dark wash is dressy and makes you look long and lean.
Finally, the clogs are a simple but cute go-to option when you will be on your feet all day and don't want to risk breaking a heel. For a date, try some nice looking neutral heels.
Try making your own outfit for a look that really makes your amazing frame pop!

Flattering Jeans for Petites: American Eagle Boot Cut

If you're like me, you have trouble finding the 'perfect' pair of jeans. I have fairly long legs for my height, so I normally can get the regular inseam, but often, they're way too long and I have to hunt down the elusive short inseam. At Aeropostale, I can wear size 0, but many stores don't carry 00, or even 0.
But then I discovered American Eagle. I've been shopping there since about 8th grade, but only for tops, jewelry and shoes because they never used to stock size 00. Over the summer, I bought a corduroy skirt that was size 0 and I always have to wear it with a belt.
My mom had a $10 off coupon if you spent $30, and she said we could check out some of the jeans since I'd been complaining about my old ones.
I found four pairs in size 00 regular (YES!) and went to go try them on. The skinny jeans were too tight for my taste, I didn't like the styling of the Artist pairs and...finally, I tried on the pair: AE Slim Boot in deep indigo. I loved the color, the slight flare and most of all, the fit. I didn't have to try and find a 00 short (which can be pretty impossible) and the thighs and waist were the right snugness.
If you're also having a hard time finding jeans that aren't too long, or too loose or too tight, try on a pair of AE Slim Boot jeans. You'll be surprised...and want to buy even more!

Amazing Jeans For Less Than $50?!

For many people, jean shopping can be a nightmare. It's bad enough that there isn't a universal sizing system; the prices can also be ridiculous. Many nicer, non-designer jeans can go for as much as $100! It's pretty simple to find jeans that are a lot cheaper...but a lot less well-made.
I usually get my jeans at Aero, where the prices are under $50. However, I am getting a little tired of their denim, because they don't always fit as well as they should.
Then there is American Eagle. A mid-range store as far as prices go, their jeans are usually 40 or 50 bucks, which doesn't sound too bad, but it's a lot for a teenage girl who makes about $7 a week. It would take me about 7 weeks of allowance just to buy one pair! But now, AE is having sort of a clearance on jeans. The best deals are on the boy fit crops ($29.95-$39.95), the dark vintage skinny jeans ($29.50), dark indigo straight jeans ($29.50), medium vintage slim boot ($29.50) and the vintage destroyed wash Artist jeans ($29.95).
Besides the great prices, American Eagle jeans are well-made and fit the way they should, so if you're ready to try some new denim, get into American Eagle soon!

New Years Resolution: Save $$$!

If you're like most people, you may have made a resolution or two in the past week that, as of right now, you intend to keep. However, in about a month, it will most likely be a forgotten goal of the past.
But this year, make a resolution that you're sure to keep: saving money. If you want to have enough cash to go on a shopping spree, or just spend a few dollars here and there on clearance items, you'll want to make sure you keep up with this resolution.
One easy way to do this is scour your closet. Organize it by store, color or style to make sure you aren't wasting any hard-earned bucks on something you already have.
Another way is to sign up for store rewards programs. American Eagle, among many others, has one of these and it's a good way to stay up to date with sales and save some moolah on that sweater you just have to have.
Finally, clear out that wallet! Throw out any expired receipts and call the toll-free numbers on the backs of your old gift cards to check the remaining balance. That way, you won't let those gift cards go to waste.
With these tips in mind, you can go shopping...without feeling guilty!

Hate Heels? Here's How to Achieve a Taller Look Without 'Em!

If you're someone who's always on her feet, whether at work, school or just like to roam the streets, you know what a big pain in the...erm...foot it is to wear heels all day long. However, most petite females want to look at least a little bit taller, and here are some tips you can use to leave the stilettos at home and still stand tall!

1. Wear pants that don't drag on the ground. Obviously, this is a rule for all, whether you're barely 5 foot or taller than most guys. Check out some styles, such as the boyfriend jean, where you can roll up the legs and still look polished, without tripping over your pant legs. Consider getting your longer pants tailored to fit you.
2. Buy some heel cushions. You can even wear these in flats and sneakers and add an extra inch or two of height, with the added bonus of ankle support.
3. If you're not totally opposed to the idea of high heels, try some lower-heeled wedges. They look just as cute and are way more comfy!

Instead of struggling with uncomfortable heels,

try shorter-inseam jeans or heel cushions!

Sweaters for Winter

With winter already upon us (well, not according to clothing stores...but that's another story--see our sister blog's post about spring apparel already in stores), it's time to start thinking about what staples look best on a petite frame.
One really good universally-flattering piece is the sweater. With a variety of styles, textures, cuts and colors to choose from, everyone can find the sweater of their dreams.
For petites, stick with the cardigan and long styles. The cardigan cut highlights a small bust and wasitline without making them stand out in an unflattering way. Longer sweaters help elongate your body, especially if they're worn with tights or legging jeans.
Most stores carry both of these types in a wide range of prices to fit every budget and lifestyle, so indulge in a great cold-weather trend!

Spring Stuff In Stores?!

Just a week ago, I went shopping up in Denver to spend my Christmas gift cards. I was psyched to have gotten $75 towards any purchase at Abercrombie & Fitch! Since there are no stores in Colorado Springs, I can only shop at A & F once or twice a year. Considering the expensive merchandise, I was lucky to have gotten more than $50, which could have maybe bought one full priced cami. Or two clearanced tees. But I had my sights set on the Marissa sweater--originally $60 but now a great deal at only $39.89! With a variety of colors (I chose dark pink) and its versatility (it can be paired with anything from a basic tank to a ruffly cami), the Marissa sweater is something you shouldn't pass up if you're scouring the racks for some last-minute deals. And by last-minute, I mean before the stores start moving in all their spring apparel. Some stores, such as Hollister, have already introduced some springtime staples online and it's only a matter of time before floral mini skirts and pastel flip-flops start encroaching on the knit sweaters and puffy vests. So stock up on some great winter gear now before it disappears...