Sabby Jey’s genius ‘Boujee on a Budget’ videos regularly go viral, where she gives Kiwis little tips for living a life of luxury for less. Whether it’s making over your bedroom, your garden, your wardrobe – or just where to find a killer deal on cocktails with a view, Sabby is always able to sniff out one hell of a deal! Here, Sabby shares her very best fashion hacks for creating a luxe wardrobe when you’re a petite gal, without breaking the bank…
As a five-foot-tall Kiwi woman with curves, I’ve lived through the endless loop of falling in love with an outfit only to find it swamps my frame or costs a small fortune to make wearable. If you’re petite and tired of fashion that doesn’t quite fit you (in sizing or budget), you’re not alone. But I’m here to tell you: it is possible to build a beautiful, versatile wardrobe that works with your body and your bank account.
From strategic second-hand shopping to mastering the art of tailoring and creating your own capsule wardrobe, here’s how I make petite dressing feel powerful, even on a small budget.
Step One: Reset Your Wardrobe Ritual
Before you hit the shops (online or otherwise), start with a wardrobe audit. Once a year, I try on every piece and sort into four piles: keep, tailor, sell, or donate. This helps identify the items that already work, the ones that could work with a tweak, and what’s just taking up space.
This process isn’t just practical, it’s empowering. It shows you where your gaps are and helps you resist impulse buying. My golden rule: if I can’t think of at least three outfits I can make with an item, it doesn’t make the cut.
Step Two: Build a Capsule Wardrobe That Works
I’ve created a detailed list of wardrobe essentials I swear by: think classic pieces like a little black dress (that actually fits), a white collared shirt, high-rise shorts, and pointed-toe boots. I track what I already own and what I still need with a digital checklist and keep a Pinterest board of my dream wardrobe to stay focused.
A capsule wardrobe is key for petite women because it allows you to mix and match with intent. Fewer, better pieces that actually fit will do more for your style than endless fast fashion hauls.
Step Three: Tailoring. Your Secret Weapon
Let’s talk tailoring. It’s hands down the best hack for petites. A great tailor can transform an average garment into something custom-fit for your proportions, and no, it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. In New Zealand, hemming pants starts from around $20–$35, and taking in a top or dress can be $30–$50.
Some key tailoring tricks I use:
- Hem pants so they graze your ankle or hit just right with a one-inch heel.
- Nip in waistlines on jackets and dresses to define curves.
- Adjust sleeves and cuffs so they don’t overwhelm small arms.
- Shorten straps on tops and dresses to lift the bustline and avoid gaping.
Can’t afford tailoring for everything? Learn to pin your own items and do a few simple adjustments yourself, or prioritise tailoring your most-worn, most-loved pieces.
Step Four: Thrift Like a Pro
My wardrobe is 70% second-hand – and no one would guess. I shop online at Designer Wardrobe, Facebook Marketplace and TradeMe, filtering for brands I love and petite-friendly pieces like cropped jackets, mini dresses, and high-rise bottoms.
Top thrifting tips:
- Always filter by size and condition.
- Know your favourite brands and their fit on you.
- Shop off-season for the best deals (e.g., coats in summer).
- Borrow from friends to try before you buy- or try on in-store, then wait for a second-hand version.
I also keep a tiered wish list: essentials I need now (like white sneakers or shapewear), classic staples I’m happy to wait for (like a trench coat or blazer), and designer pieces I save up for or hunt down second-hand.
Step Five: Style Strategies for Petites
Here’s where you make your wardrobe work for you, no matter the price tag.
- Monochrome dressing elongates the body, try all cream, all black, or matching tones.
- Pointed-toe shoes create the illusion of height.
- Golden accessories (hoops, chain necklaces, statement belts) draw attention upward.
- Use the “Rule of Three”: three elements per outfit (e.g., jeans + tee + trench, or dress + boots + belt).
Most importantly, dress with intent. Know your proportions and play to your strengths. If you love your waist, define it. If you want to look taller, balance your silhouette with fitted tops and slightly-cropped outerwear.
Want to See These Hacks in Action?
Style is personal. But savvy, petite-friendly fashion? That’s something we can all share.
Follow Sabby Jey on Instagram @sabbyjeyxx for more petite fashion tips, styling reels, and second-hand gems.