Shorter than 5'4"? Then you have a petite figure. You might still be athletic, curvy or plus-size, but I've come up with some style tips to help you shop for your shape. The key to dressing for your shape is to buy well fitting clothes that don't swamp your small frame but rules are sometimes there to be broken - if it looks great, wear it!

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ON TOP

Depending on your figure, shorter tops can be super flattering. If you do opt for a tunic then make sure the empire line is not too low down. V-necks and scoop neck tops can be great for a smaller frame and petite collections will have the best proportions. Avoid big, baggy styles which will fail to show off your fabulous figure.

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SKIRTS & TROUSERS

High-waisted trousers and skirts can make shorter legs appear longer but beware if you have a fuller bust as it can accentuate it. Cropped trousers or calf length skirts can be a concern, but if they're cut for your shape they'll still look fab. If in doubt, a pair of high heels can work wonders. Skirts that finish above the knee or tailored shorts will always look fantastic.

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DRESSES TO IMPRESS

For your absolute must-have party outfit, a fitted dress will always be most flattering. Don't hide in the background either - wear colour and be proud of your size. A great tip is to stick to one colour or print from top to toe to avoid breaking up your body's silhouette

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JEANS GENIUS

Straight leg jeans with a sharp front seam on the leg give the illusion of height and longer legs. Debenhams has a great range of jeans designed especially for petites which are cut to perfectly flatter your figure. My top tip is to have one pair of jeans that are the perfect length to wear with heels and another that are the right length for flats.

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COATS & JACKETS

Choose jackets designed especially for petites for a better fit in the body and arms. The perfect length for coats is mid thigh, longer coats can make you appear shorter so are best avoided. You could also opt for the 3/4 length sleeve - proportion-wise it's genius, plus you can instantly change the look with long leather gloves in winter.

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ACCESSORIES

Skinny belts and clutch bags will fit your proportions perfectly. Avoid carrying large oversized bags and chunky scarves which can make you look smaller than you are. Long necklaces that hang vertically down the body are a great jewellery option, but beware oversized statement necklaces which can easily swamp a small frame.

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SHOES

Nude heels can make bare legs look leaner and longer - it's been a style trick of models and celebs for decades and nude heels are a must-have for every petite's wardrobe. Avoid shoes with an ankle strap as this will cut the line of the legs and make them appear shorter. When wearing black tights go for dark coloured shoes.

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DESIGNER COLLECTION

At Debenhams, The Principles by Ben de Lisi collection offers the same great style and design as the main range but has been designed to fit and flatter a smaller frame. Plus we've got other big brands like Precis Petite and Minuet Petite available online too.

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STYLE ICON: DAYTIME

Lily Allen is one to watch for inspiration. She follows the rule of wearing black tights with black shoes, plus plays with bright coloured accessories and a bag with small proportions. The cropped sleeves of her Chanel coat are perfect on her and she's even added extra height with a chic up-do.

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STYLE ICON: EVENING

Reese Witherspoon may be petite but she's big on style and knows how to flatter her figure. She always manages to look sophisticated opting for fitted dresses and nude shoes or ones without ankle straps to cheat the illusion of lovely long legs.

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