I'm not very tall and of average build and would like to look taller ... however, heels just aren't my thing. How can I dress to look even a little bit taller?
Remember stretching racks! Kidding.
The key to help you appear taller is to create a narrow, long silhouettethrough your styling.
*Wear one colour top and bottom or complementary tones. Contrasting colours have a visual stop-start effect.
*Wear tops, jackets, trousers, and dresses that are more fitted. I'm not suggesting they have to be figure-hugging but more closely follow the contours of your body as opposed to loose-fitting garments; a more streamlined look.
*Garments with side design panels, in a contrasting colour or pattern from the centre panel, can also help achieve this. This style can also give a slimming look.
*Wear open-front footwear, have as much of your skin/tights showing so it gives the appearance of a longer leg line. Be careful with ankle straps and ankle boots as they can visually cut or interrupt the leg line.
*Even the smallest of heels, say 2-3cm, can make a difference to your height appearance and are still very comfortable. Wearing a heel also narrows the calf. Opt for a finer heel rather than chunky/platform because visually it's more slimming.
*Vertical stripes draw the eye up and down, which can lengthen your look.
*Keep your styling minimal - garment lines, detailing. For example, a pencil skirt (narrow top to bottom) will give you more length than a full skirt. Same with patterning - opt for small patterns or no patterns at all. Too much going on may dwarf you.
*Wearing a skirt or shorts at, or slightly above the knee, together with an open-front shoe, will make your legs look longer.
