Women come in all shapes and sizes, which means there’s no one-style-fits-all approach to fashion. In order to look good and feel great – we all have that staple item in the wardrobe that makes us feel wonderful – you must know your body’s strengths and use them to your advantage. This way you can customise your clothing to never get it wrong.

One body type that’s always been a little challenging to dress is the “tall body type”. But a tall body is something to be proud of – who wouldn’t love to have long lean legs? Here’s how to turn that challenge into your greatest asset.

Dressing a tall body

For many women browsing high street stores, shopping for a tall frame can be nothing short of frustrating. For some reason, clothing manufacturers are reluctant to cater for this growing market and when shopping in certain popular stores it can seem that ‘just below the bum’ and ‘three-quarter sleeves’ are the way to go. But it doesn’t have to be.

While shopping for a tall frame can be frustrating, you shouldn’t be deterred from building the wardrobe of your dreams. Arm yourself with the knowledge of what works for your height and style yourself like a pro. Own your height and look fab!

What’s on your shopping list

There are certain items that should always be on a tall girl’s shopping list. These include:

• Skinny jeans
• Maxi dresses
• Blazers
• Waist cinching belts
• Waist-length jackets
• Over-the-knee boots
• Skirts that fall above the knee
• Statement accessories
• Eye catching patterns
• Flattering necklines
• Separates
• Heels
• Flats

Here’s why…

The skinny jean: The skinny jean presents the perfect opportunity to show off those lovely long pins. It won’t matter if they pull up a bit too short, just so long as you team them with an amazing pair of shoes. If they are slightly longer, a turn up is hot right now, so roll over the hem by about an inch or two.

Worn casually or as part of evening wear, skinny jeans are your best fashion friends.  

Maxi dresses: Maxi dresses are your time to shine, so wear them with pride. No matter how much people of average height try to wear maxi dresses, they’ll never pull them off in the way that you do. Get yourself a few for summer and don’t be afraid of pattern. Sometimes the most ‘out there’ designs are the winners.

Blazers: When tucking in tops, choose a blazer with waist definition. You’ll be amazed how good a pair of modern-tailored shorts look with a t-shirt, blazer and flats.

Waist cinching belts: Especially important for tall women, waist cinching belts give the illusion of an hourglass figure and add interest to your overall look. Being tall, you can afford to go a little wider with your belts too.

Waist-length jackets: A waist-length jacket is great for providing distinction between your torso and lower half. Breaking up the line of your outfit, they’re enviably chic, especially when the arms are rolled.

Over-the-knee boots: This is one style item that only you can pull off and it’s one you should definitely do! Be the envy of all your friends and show off your elongated legs in a pair of drool-worthy boots and a mini skirt.

Skirts that fall above the knee: Skirts that sit just above the knee can help you look leaner and are work friendly, making them a staple for every working girl’s wardrobe. To balance your proportions even further, look for skirts that sit higher on your waist.

Statement accessories: Big accessories add interest to your look and are one of the perks of being tall. Just choose one statement piece, however, as even tall girls need to know when enough is enough. Alternatively, try matching your accessories for a cohesive look.

Eye catching patterns: Tall girls can definitely afford to wear louder, prouder prints. If you love your legs, then wearing colour and patterns on your bottom half will draw attention to them. If you’d like to turn heads for a reason other than your height, a patterned top will draw attention away from your long legs.

Flattering necklines: Show off your shoulders by wearing a flattering V-neck, halter or scoop neck. If you have narrow shoulders, a boat neckline has a widening effect and will help balance your torso and hips.

Separates: Great for those heading to the office five days a week, separates can soften your height and let you be more playful in your clothing choices. Experiment with texture and pattern and don’t be afraid to mix your outfits up.

Ruffles: While some will tell you that ruffles aren’t for a tall girl, others will tell you that ruffles are the perfect embellishment. A ruffled skirt can add weight to your body and make you appear shorter, and a ruffled swimsuit will flatter a small bust.

Heels: Many tall women believe they can’t wear heels but this is simply not true! Heels are just another way to keep your mile-long legs going and will help you own your height. You might want to avoid 6-inch heels when hanging with a shorter friend, but there’s no reason why you can’t wear a pretty, strappy pair of stilettos with a low heel.

Flats: With long legs you can easily rock a pair of flats, even with a pair of short shorts. Flats and short hemlines pair really well on tall women.

Clothes to avoid as a tall woman

Items to avoid placing on your shopping list include:

Vertical stripes: Vertical stripes will make you look taller. Great if you’re short, but when you’re already tall they can make you feel giant.

Shoulder pads: If you wear a jacket that adds height around the head, not only will your body look longer, it will make your head appear out of proportion.

Turtle necks: Turtle necks elongate the neck and stretch the look of your upper body. Again, great when you’re short, but when you’re tall? Not so much.

Take inspiration from women who rock their height

Still unsure on what to place in your tall women’s shopping basket? Turn to celebs such Karlie Kloss, Joan Smalls, Jennifer Hawkins, Nicole Kidman, Gwyneth Paltrow, Taylor Swift, Jane Fonda, and Michelle Obama, all of whom show us just how it’s done.