How to Dress When You’re Over 5’10” (Without Hiding Your Height)
Learn how to highlight your tall frame with modern silhouettes, smart proportions, and confident styling tips designed for women 5’10” and up.
Embrace Your Height—Don’t Disguise It
If you’ve ever hunched down a bit in a group photo, hesitated to wear heels of any height, or heard “You’re so tall! Do you play basketball?” for the thousandth time, you’re not alone. Growing up tall can come with a strange mix of compliments and self-consciousness. But here’s the truth: your height is not something to minimize—it’s your built-in statement piece.
As a tall woman myself, I’ve spent years navigating racks of sleeves that hit at that awkward spot above my wrist and ankle jeans that look more like high waters. I’ve learned that the secret isn’t to hide my height though—it’s to dress with it, own the fact that I’m tall, and be okay with turning a few heads. Confidence starts with clothes that celebrate your frame instead of fighting it.
So how have I turned my self-consciousness into being ready to accept compliments? Keep reading.
Start with Fit—Proportions Make the Outfit
The best style advice for tall women? Perfect your proportions first. When your clothes fit correctly, you’ll instantly look polished—no matter your height.
Prioritize fit, not size. You may have grown up in a time when going up a size was looked down upon (hi, fellow millennials!). Women’s sizing is so all over the board that a medium for one brand could be the same as an extra-large for another. Wear what fits you, not what the label says. Plus—you’re the only one who knows what size you’re wearing!
Seek out tall-specific sizing. Look for brands that make pants with longer inseams, tops with extended sleeve lengths, and bottoms with higher rises that actually reach your waist. Fortunately, we live in a time when there are a LOT of brands catering to us goddesses. A few of my favorites are Gap, Anthropologie, Abercrombie, and Long Tall Sally.
Tailor when needed. This is probably the #1 shopping hack for anyone to know. If something fits perfect in almost all the right places, it’s so simple to bring that to a seamstress and have them tailor it so it looks like it’s custom made for you. Even the smallest adjustment can turn “almost right” into “perfect fit.”
Balance structure and drape. Flowy fabrics paired with structured pieces—like a longline blazer over soft trousers—highlight your height without overwhelming it.
If you’ve ever struggled with clothes that feel off, especially if you’re a tall woman, it’s likely the proportions were made for someone else’s body. Find items that work with your body (not fight against it), and you’ll be amazed at how everything else falls into place.
The Best Silhouettes for Tall Women
Once you’ve nailed your proportions, start experimenting with silhouettes that move with your frame. Tall women look incredible in long, lean lines and bold shapes that show off your natural length.
Outfits That Elongate (the Right Way)
Wide-leg trousers with a tucked-in top (my go-to!).
An A-line skirt with a tucked-in top—a slight variation on the outfit above.
A belted maxi dress that defines your waist. Or, any maxi dress really!
Column skirts or jumpsuits that follow your frame.
These outfits work because the lines flow from top to bottom, creating effortless harmony—never overwhelm.
Pieces That Add Balance
Cropped jackets and cardigans to offset longer torsos.
Midi skirts that hit mid-calf (not ankle-length).
Loafers, mules, and flat boots that “ground” your look. (That’s not to say you can’t rock heels! More on that below.)
Balance is about finding proportion, not hiding height. You don’t want to look shorter—you want to look like you dressed with intention.
Build a Capsule Wardrobe for a Tall Frame
Every woman should have a few go-to pieces that she can easily rely on to pull together various outfits. We call this a capsule collection. You’ve probably seen these all over social media, but they’re not one-size-fits all. For tall women, there are a few pieces you want to key in on. Think of this as your tall-friendly foundation—a mix of timeless pieces that fit beautifully and layer easily.
Perfectly fitted white button-up
High-rise, straight-leg jeans with an inseam long enough for you
Tailored blazer with proper arm length
Longline coat or trench
Structured knit midi dress
High-rise, wide-leg trousers
Crisp t-shirts (that actually hit where you want them to, whether that’s at your waist or hips)
A maxi skirt or dress for when you want to dress up a bit
Polished flats and block-heel boots
A statement belt to define your silhouette
A capsule like this specifically for tall women ensures that everything fits before you start styling—which makes daily dressing so much easier (and infinitely more chic!).
Fabrics, Patterns, and Proportion Play
When you’re tall, fabric choice can make or break a look. The best part is that we can get away with a lot more than shorter frames because we’re tall.
Structured fabrics like cotton twill, denim, and linen give shape to long limbs. These fabrics also hold up well over time, so you’re more likely to find quality pieces in these fabrics.
Fluid fabrics like silk, viscose, and jersey add movement and soften sharper lines. Avoid anything that clings too much (plus, that’s not even comfortable).
Color blocking and texture help create focal points—use them intentionally. A monochromatic look effortlessly streamlines your length.
Patterns like wide stripes, checks, or bold florals look incredible on tall frames because you can wear the heck out of them without them swallowing you.
Tall women look best in fabrics that drape rather than cling—think linen blends, structured cottons, or soft knits that move with you.
Confidence Is the Final Accessory
Let’s talk mindset.
Many tall women hesitate to wear heels or bold prints for fear of “standing out too much.” I get it—I was born tall, but I wasn’t born confident. As I’ve gotten older, what I’ve learned is that I already stand out and I may as well own it.
When you dress with confidence—heels or not—you project ease. You’re showing others that height isn’t something to shrink from, it’s something to be proud of. And honestly? Why not make people do a few double takes to catch another glimpse at your gorgeous self?
Q&A — What Are the Best Styles for Tall Women?
What are the best styles for tall women?
The most flattering styles are the ones that highlight your natural length: longline coats, high-rise pants, column dresses, and wide-leg trousers. Look for defined waists and clean lines that let your frame shine.
Should tall women wear heels?
Absolutely—if you love them. Heels aren’t about adding height, they’re about presence. The confidence you project matters more than the inches.
What pants length is best for tall women?
Aim for a 34–37” inseam depending on your height. Many tall-friendly brands now offer extended inseams in denim and trousers. And remember, tailoring is always worth it.
Final Thoughts — Standing Tall in Style
When you stop trying to dress smaller and start dressing smarter, everything changes. The right fit, silhouette, and attitude can make you feel like your wardrobe was built for you—because it was.
Ready to love your height even more?