Number one rule: The longer your legs appear, the taller you seem to be.

If you’re statistically-challenged in the height department, the easiest and most obvious way to add a few centimetres to your length is to put on a pair of heels, or platform shoes if you can’t walk in the former.

While we all want to look a little taller (because no one likes looking stumpy), there are ways to get around it without having to be in uncomfortable shoes that add height all day.

1. Nude flats and strappy sandals

Showing more skin helps elongate your legs. When it comes to flats, opt for a good pair of pointed shoes as that’ll help add length visually.

2. A long cardigan

This helps create an uninterrupted vertical line, which enhances and elongates your silhouette. Wear your cardigan strategically though. Don’t just pull it over your top and let it hang – that will truncate your shape, which is counterproductive. Instead, wear it over a top that’s either cropped or tucked in, with a pair of regular or high-waisted pants.

3. Get fitted

A fitted outfit, as opposed to a billowy, voluminous dress helps give the right proportions to your shape and size. You can even wear maxi dresses (long said to be unsuitable for petite girls) as long as they’re the right fit.

4. Don’t cut off at the ankles

Skip shoes with ankle straps or ankle-length sneakers or boots. These “cut” your legs off, and it’s not a look you can afford, or want to get on board with.

5. Ankle-length pants

That said, a good fitted pair of pants cut at the ankle help “extend” your legs a little. The hems should rest nicely against your ankle, and not suffocate it. You’re not trying to look like a sausage.

6. Consider thigh-high boots

When in cold climates, thigh-high boots are a boon – not only do they keep you warm, they look stylish, and of course, add height.

7. Keep things simple

Outfit yourself in an ensemble that is either monochrome, or with a complementary palette that adds height. What you don’t want: colour blocking that doesn’t do anything for your silhouette.

8. Smaller bags

If you don’t need much with you on a daily basis, opt for smaller bags instead. A bigger bag will overwhelm you.

Overall, there are many tricks and tips to create the illusion of height, but remember that confidence and self-assurance are the most important traits that make a person stand out, no matter their physical height!

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