
Hold the heels. Being 5’4″ and under doesn’t mean relying on towering stilettos to feel polished during summer events. Instead, take your styling cues from one of the best-dressed petite women I’ve come across: Bel Powley.
Stepping out for a day of tennis at Wimbledon this week, Bel wore one of the chicest petite-friendly looks I’ve seen this summer. Her crisp white high-waisted shorts sat neatly at the waist, with the high-rise cut creating the illusion of longer legs and a clean, streamlined silhouette.
Rather than opting for expected heels, Bel grounded the look with a comfortable pair of Mary Jane flats. Choosing a soft butter-yellow style, the tonal palette createed one continuous line from top to toe, further elongating her frame whilst lending the outfit an easy elegance.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Dressed head-to-toe in Longchamp, Bel paired her tailored shorts with a crisp cotton shirt in a rich forest green, before finishing the look with the brand’s Looong Shoulder Bag in a vibrant blue tucked beneath her arm. Creating a refined, petite woman-friendly take on summer event dressing that goes to show that flats can feel just as elevated as heels.
Read on to shop Bel Powley’s look and discover my edit of the best high-waisted shorts and Mary Jane shoes below.
Shop Bel’s Look:
This classic button-down also comes in seven other shades.
Be quick! I can’t see these staying in stock for long.
Longchamp
Le Foulonné Ballerinas
The butter yellow colour trend isn’t showing any signs of slowing down.
Shield your eyes in style.
Longchamp
Looong M Shoulder Bag
This is the perfect size for carrying around your daily essentials.
Shop High-Waisted Shorts and Ballet Flats:
Reformation’s Mason shorts are a fashion person’s favourites.
Whistles
Black Mary Jane Ballet Pump
Style these with white socks to give your look a preppy feel.
Marks & Spencer
Pure Cotton Poplin High Waisted Shorts
These come in sizes 6—24.
Marks & Spencer
Leather Mary Jane Buckle Flat Ballet Pumps
These also come in white.
POSSE
Marchello Pleated Linen Shorts
These also come in black.
Massimo Dutti
Soft Leather Ballerinas
Every great wardrobe starts with a pair of black flats.
Nobodys Child
White High Waisted Tailored Shorts
Style these with a green shirt to get Bel’s look.
HERBERT LEVINE
Rule the Day Textured-Leather Ballet Flats
Style these with summer whites for a sleek, tonal look.
Reiss
Button-Waist Tailored Shorts
Style these with a simple tee or dress them up with the matching blazer.
LE MONDE BERYL
Mary Jane Snake-Effect Leather Ballet Flats
These also come in half sizes, so you can find your perfect fit.
Uniqlo
Linen Cotton Shorts
The linen composition ensures a light, breathable finish.
Sézane
Valentin Low Ballerinas
Add a pop of colour to your summer rotation.
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