Hold the heels. Being 5’4″ and under doesn’t mean relying on towering stilettos to feel polished during summer events. Instead, take your styling cues from one of the best-dressed petite women I’ve come across: Bel Powley.
Stepping out for a day of tennis at Wimbledon this week, Bel wore one of the chicest petite-friendly looks I’ve seen this summer. Her crisp white high-waisted shorts sat neatly at the waist, with the high-rise cut creating the illusion of longer legs and a clean, streamlined silhouette.
Rather than opting for expected heels, Bel grounded the look with a comfortable pair of Mary Jane flats. Choosing a soft butter-yellow style, the tonal palette createed one continuous line from top to toe, further elongating her frame whilst lending the outfit an easy elegance.
Dressed head-to-toe in Longchamp, Bel paired her tailored shorts with a crisp cotton shirt in a rich forest green, before finishing the look with the brand’s Looong Shoulder Bag in a vibrant blue tucked beneath her arm. Creating a refined, petite woman-friendly take on summer event dressing that goes to show that flats can feel just as elevated as heels.
Read on to shop Bel Powley’s look and discover my edit of the best high-waisted shorts and Mary Jane shoes below.
Shop Bel’s Look:
This classic button-down also comes in seven other shades.
Be quick! I can’t see these staying in stock for long.
The butter yellow colour trend isn’t showing any signs of slowing down.
Shield your eyes in style.
This is the perfect size for carrying around your daily essentials.
Shop High-Waisted Shorts and Ballet Flats:
Reformation’s Mason shorts are a fashion person’s favourites.
Style these with white socks to give your look a preppy feel.
These come in sizes 6—24.
These also come in white.
These also come in black.
Every great wardrobe starts with a pair of black flats.
Style these with a green shirt to get Bel’s look.
Style these with summer whites for a sleek, tonal look.
Style these with a simple tee or dress them up with the matching blazer.
These also come in half sizes, so you can find your perfect fit.
The linen composition ensures a light, breathable finish.
Add a pop of colour to your summer rotation.
