Hi Shortie,

How’re you? I’m still deep in my read-every-personal-style-book-I-can-find phase. I’ve noticed that nearly every author pushes the idea of a wardrobe must-have checklist.

The exact pieces vary, but you know the usual suspects—the T-shirt, button-up shirt, blazer, blue jeans, etc. Some books even compare them to kitchen condiments, claiming they’re the foundation of every wardrobe. But I’m still not sold.

I’ve always resisted the idea that everyone needs the same 10-ish items in their closet. Our bodies, lifestyles, and preferences are so different—why should the backbone of our closets be identical? I’ll even go out on a limb and say that not everyone needs a pair of blue jeans.

Take blazers, for example. They often make the must-have lists, and while I own a couple, they’re far from a staple for me. In fact, I hardly ever wear them as intended—I style them as dresses instead!

And when I recently sold off a batch of clothing, most of the pieces were so-called closet essentials that I never actually wore. I bought them because I felt I should have them, not because they suited me.

I understand why these checklists exist—they make it easy for readers to take action. But I believe your fashion essentials should be tailored to you—your body, your lifestyle, your preferences.

I know I’ve refined my style without relying on these so-called staples, and you can, too! My intuition tells me there’s a more effective approach that empowers you to decide what truly belongs in your wardrobe. I’m still figuring out what that is, but when I do, you’ll be the first to know.

Sincerely short,

Lwany

P.S. What is one piece of clothing you couldn’t live without?❣️

SHORT QUESTION

Q: How to dress a thicker shorty who is widest in the hip with slight curves at the bust?

I'm open to all sorts of styles. I need help.

– Amelia

A: Great question! I recently had to troubleshoot this for myself.

I know I’ve said this a million times, but think of your body as a canvas. Like any other art form, the most compelling outfits strike a balance.

Think of your favorite painting—the artist carefully uses shapes, colors, and strategic placement to create harmony. Interior designers do the same, considering the space before arranging furniture and decor. Fashion works the same way.

Since your figure’s widest point is lower to the ground, the eye is naturally drawn downward. Styles with prominent shoulders will help lift the visual weight to create balance. To achieve this effect, look for structured shoulders, subtle shoulder pads, or puff sleeves.

In our Instagram exchange, you shared your vertical body measurements, which suggest a longer torso and shorter legs. To lengthen your legs visually, I recommend prioritizing high-rise bottoms. Also, lean into vertical lines and monochrome outfits—they’ll work in your favor.

You might also notice that fluid fabrics are incredibly flattering. They move with you and hug your curves. Avoid stiff fabrics whenever possible!

I must clarify that my goal here isn’t to push the tall, slender beauty standard. Your body is your canvas, and fashion is the art form. Our goal is to create visual harmony!

I have to be honest—I’m not a fan of most puff sleeve styles. They tend to make me feel a bit too cutesy and childlike. I thought I’d share some chic tops with prominent shoulders that draw the eye upward.

Draped Twist Knit Top

$99.99

Puff-Sleeve Lace Trim Shirt

$70.00 $41

Asymmetrical Off The Shoulder Top

$64.95 $35.99

Raw-Edged Mesh Neckline Top

$78.00

Off The Shoulder Rouching Detail Top

$88.00

I’m 5’4″ – Here Are The Best Petite Jeans To Shop That Actually Fit Well

By Emma Richardson, Fashion Ecommerce Writer, Grazia

I’m Curvy and Short—These Are the Jeans That Actually Work for Me

By Morgan Flaherty for The Everymom

I Asked 2 Petite Fashion Experts How to Wear an Oversized Blazer as a Short Girl—Here Are My Results

By Stephanie Maida, Senior Commerce Editor, PureWow