When you are short and everything sits too low

Short answer: Choose garments with a short back and a high waist, and have sleeves and legs shortened. That is cheaper than hunting for the perfect cut.

What goes wrong

On a short body the shoulder seam lands on the upper arm, the waist sits above the hip rather than at the waist, and the sleeves cover half the hand. That makes the garment look big even when the width is right.

The two measurements that matter most

Back length from neck to waist, and sleeve length. If you own a garment that fits, measure both and use them as your reference when reading a size chart. See bamboo clothing for women.

Cuts that work better

Tops with a high waist, short or three quarter sleeves and dresses with a defined waist sit better than long, straight cuts. Avoid styles where the shoulder drops down the arm. See bamboo dresses and bamboo tops for women.

Alterations that are easy

Shortening a sleeve or a trouser leg costs little at an alterations shop and changes everything. Trousers and sleep trousers are the easiest, dresses the hardest. See bamboo trousers for women.

Frequently asked questions

Should I size down

Only if the width is also too big. Otherwise the garment pinches without getting shorter.

Are petite ranges always better

Often yes, but measure anyway. Petite does not mean the same thing at every brand.

What about rolling the sleeves up

That works on shirts, but on knitted sleeves it gets bulky and unrolls itself.