Did you know that you are considered petite if you stack up 54 or shorter? Many women enjoy a shorter height, for it makes chasing the males so much easier. But ask yourself this: Have you ever worn high heels and wound up with terrible foot aches within hours? If youve ever wished you could look taller, read on for tips to creating an illusory image that conveys tallness.

Rock out with vertical stripes and lines! Whether you choose pleats, patterns or plain old stripes, youll love the illusion of added height you get from fashions boasting vertical lines. They elongate your body while also giving you a slimmer, trimmer appearance.

Add other vertical elements into your wardrobe. Try button-down shirts and sweaters, zip-front apparel and racing stripes. Get a little sexy with a slit in your skirt front, back or side will do just fine. Pinstripes are totally trendy right now, but you can also sport beads, embroidery, pretty patterns, corduroy and any number of creative customizations in a vertical format. Ribbed patterns and pleats also add to the vertical aspect.

Wear a v-neck shirt or sweater for the appearance of added height. The v-neck gives an illusion of a longer torso, while we all know that high heels are the only fashion accessories that physically do make us taller. Speaking of Create a few true extra inches with platforms or high heels. Depending on the rest of your outfit, you can judge if the chunky heels, stiletto heels or platform sandals will work best. Dont forget about the timeless value of a nice pair of boots! Every gals wardrobe should contain a staple of shoes blacks and browns, summer and winter styles, open-toe, closed-toe and boots. If your feet become sensitive to pressure easily, consider wearing platforms over heels, or just skip the stylish shoes altogether and opt for flats.

Introduce accessories that will add height to your image. Silky scarves, dangling earrings and long pendants, pearls or necklaces should give a nice boost to your stature. Accessories like sunglasses, hats, barrettes and shawls can also add to the height factor.

When selecting pants, choose those that fit properly and brush the tops of your shoes. Your pants should definitely cover your socks, creating an appearance of longer legs. Some trendy pants of varying lengths may not be the best for you if you are trying to add the illusion of height to your physique.

Worry less about the things you cant change and focus on the things you can change. Finally, when everything is said and done, the perfect dress or suit can really make the occasion. Put your main focus on coordinating the perfect outfit from the clothing itself to the best shoes, purse and accessories you can find.

By Kathryn M. D'Imperio 2006

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