Jen Wooster-McBride is owner and CEO of J. Lauren Events in Columbus, Ohio.  If you haven’t already, check out her featured planner style profile and get to know her a little better.  Jen is a regular contributor to The Stylish Planner on the topic of Petite fashion, you will definitely enjoy her posts!

From Jen:

A great pant is hard to find. It should be slimming, it should lengthen, it should not gape in the back and it should never, ever, rise above your belly button. But most of all it should balance the requirements of your body type with the needs of your stature. So today we are going to chat about the right fit for your body type and the general fit tips for the petite planners.

Body Type Fit Tips:

· Pixie (Straight) Shapes- I often read about trying to create curves and I think to myself, “Why?”. Celebrate what makes you figure unique. I love the slim pant and leggings for you. And may I add we are all insanely jealous of your delicate features?

Italian Wool Minnie Pant (J. Crew)

· Wide Hips (Pear) – A boot cut or very slight flare leg will help balance out things out nicely. A small percentage of stretch fabric will keep the top of the pants fitted and slimming.

City Essential Ann Flare Leg (Ann Taylor LOFT)

· Large Mid Section (Apple) – Avoid a low rise pant, even when you have the right size they tend to cause pouching when you sit. Not cute. A medium rise with a wider waistband without belt loops will help create a smooth look. While a wide leg will help balance out your upper half.

Halogen Wide Leg Trouser (Nordstrom)

· Hourglass- A classic straight leg is best. Slim pants are tempting but tread carefully here; they can add weight to your curvy frame.

Favorite Fit Wool Gabardine Durham Trouser (J. Crew)

General Fit Tips:

· Cuffs should generally be avoided. They add great flare to a pant but are better left to our taller friends.

· A vertical crease down the front elongates the leg. Always take these pants to the dry cleaner to ensure they stay nice and crisp looking.

Crisp Crease, 215 Martin Classic Trouser (Banana Republic)

· Avoid large stitching or embellishments on your bottom half. Saving it for the top will draw the eye up making you look slimmer and taller. Gotta love that, right?

· Save your too cute shoes for skirts and dresses. It is best to stick with a shoe that matches your pant color. The less you break up the leg line the better.

· Always have them tailored to a specific shoe. Slouchy pants are not great for the petite crew.

· If you must do a Capri or ankle length plant, opt for a slim fit that will follow the contour of your leg thus keeping a streamlined silhouette. A wide or flare bottom will cut you off at the ankles.

Question:  What features do you look for in a petite pant?