First step: Ditch bulky silhouettes and ankle straps
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/peo-partnerships-stylist-approved-petite-shoes-tout-1babb50fc31745ada2d8e047c68c037d.jpg "[Partnerships] Stylist-Approved Petite Shoes")
Stylist-Approved Shoe Styles:
- Italian Leather Thong Platform Sandal, $78
- Italian Leather Glove Ballet Flat, $68
- Italian Leather & Suede Low Profile Sneaker, $94
- Italian Leather Flip Flops, $50
I’m 5-foot-2, and it took years of shopping to become a pro at sourcing pants, skirts, and dresses that won’t overwhelm my small frame. It wasn’t until recently, though, that I understood the role shoes can play when curating a petite-friendly wardrobe.
In a conversation with celebrity stylist Vanessa Powell, she explained why petite shoppers should avoid heavy ankle straps and bulky sneakers that “chop the leg line” and opt for styles that show more of the foot and break up the visual weight of fabric (think sleek flip-flops and low-vamp flats!). I’m taking her advice and revamping my closet with these four stylist-approved shoes from Quince.
Italian Leather Thong Platform Sandal
I love getting a little boost from my shoes, so I was excited that one of Powell’s suggestions was a pair of platform flip flops like this version from Quince. The straps are subtle enough to properly balance flowy pants or jeans, and the rubber outsole and thick base provide plenty of comfort and support. One shopper called them a “great summer and vacation shoe,” adding that they’re “comfy and cute.”
Italian Leather Glove Ballet Flat
A low-vamp flat is designed to slip on and off easily, and it typically has a narrow silhouette that shows more of the foot, making it a great pick for petites. Quince’s glove ballet flats have that sleek silhouette, and one shopper shared that they “don’t slip around on my feet,” adding that the “leather feels very supple” against their skin.” I’m grabbing this pair for summer and fall while they’re back in stock in six colors.
Italian Leather & Suede Low Profile Sneaker
Rather than reaching for a bulky sneaker that overpowers small frames and cuts off the legs, Powell recommends a streamlined option like a ballerina or low-profile sneaker. This pair comes in three colors, is made from Italian leather and suede, and has an Ortholite sole for cushioned support. Grab these to wear with jeans, trousers, shorts, or dresses.
Italian Leather Flip-Flops
While platform flip-flops offer added height, a classic pair can also be a practical, comfortable option. Quince’s version is a popular pick and is currently available in three colors: ivory, black, and tan. One shopper credited the sleek style to giving them a “continuous leg line,” and another shared that they’re “easy to slip on,” and “go with everything.” Grab them before they’re gone.
Keep scrolling to shop for more petite-friendly shoe styles at Quince below.
Italian Leather Cutout Slide Sandal |
Italian Leather Platform Sandal |
Italian Leather Slide Sandal |
Italian Leather Crossover Slide |
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