The VIV Approach to Petite Design
Designing well-fitting clothing for petite women requires more than adjusting length. It requires a fundamentally different way of thinking about proportion, balance, and scale.
At VIV The Label, petite design is not an adaptation of standard sizing — it is the starting point. Every piece is developed with shorter frames in mind, ensuring garments feel intentional, refined, and effortless to wear.
Why proportion matters in design
Proportion determines how a garment interacts with the body. When proportions are aligned, clothing sits naturally and moves with ease. When they are not, even beautifully made pieces can feel uncomfortable or visually heavy.
For petite women, proportion affects:
- Shoulder and sleeve placement
- Torso length and waist position
- Rise, inseam, and hem balance
- Overall silhouette scale
Designing without considering these relationships often results in clothing that feels “almost right” but never quite works.
→ What Petite Really Means – And Why Fit Matters More Than Height
Starting from the pattern, not the hem
One of the most common misconceptions in fashion is that petite design simply means shortening garments. In reality, shortening a finished piece rarely addresses the underlying fit issues.
At VIV, design begins at the pattern-making stage. Patterns are developed specifically for shorter frames, with careful consideration given to how each measurement relates to the whole garment.
This approach ensures balance throughout the design — not just at the hemline.
Fabric choice and how it supports fit
Fabric plays a critical role in how a garment drapes and wears on a petite frame. Weight, structure, and movement all influence how proportions are perceived.
Thoughtfully selected fabrics allow:
- Clean lines without excess bulk
- Controlled drape that doesn’t overwhelm
- Comfort and wearability throughout the day
When fabric and proportion work together, garments feel natural rather than restrictive.
Refinement through fitting
Petite design requires precision. Each VIV piece undergoes multiple fittings to ensure balance, comfort, and consistency across sizes.
This refinement process focuses on:
- Ensuring silhouettes remain true to intent
- Eliminating excess fabric
- Preserving clean lines through the body
The result is clothing that feels considered from every angle.
Designing for real life
Good design supports real life — not just the fitting room. VIV pieces are created to integrate seamlessly into everyday wardrobes, offering versatility without compromising on fit or polish.
This philosophy allows petite women to invest in pieces that feel timeless, functional, and genuinely wearable.
→ Designed for Shorter Frames – Why Standard Sizing Rarely Works
Closing thought
Petite women deserve clothing designed with the same level of care and intention as any other category. When proportion leads the design process, fit improves, confidence grows, and style becomes effortless.