Accessories should correspond to our height and size

Here at Take Note, we happen to be vertically challenged.

We’ve long heard that accessories should correspond to our height and size–so when we look for handbags, we always wonder: How much handbag is too much? (Too much handbag? Who ever heard of such a thing?)

To find out, we checked in with sage Chicago personal stylist Erin Carpenter, who tells us:

Fashion is subjective, so I hesitate to issue any absolutes. But there is some truth to what you’ve heard: When it comes to accessorizing, it’s best to keep scale in mind. Being vertically challenged myself (okay, just plan short—I’m 4’11”), I can empathize. Huge, hold-everything-but-the-kitchen-sink bags are everywhere, and it’s tough striking a balance between “fashionably large” and “swallow you whole.”

For petites, if the body of a bag is hanging well past your hip or is wider than your torso, consider this: It may look trendy, but it’s also working to emphasize your slight height. It’s kind of like a little girl wearing her mom’s heels.

When shopping for handbags online, try styles that are categorized as small or medium instead of large. Satchel styles, which are meant to be carried on the arm instead of the shoulder, are safe bets for petites in terms of size. They also happen to be plentiful this season.

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Shoulder Carries:

If, like me, you prefer shoulder carries, try a crescent-shaped hobo or narrow tote (i.e., one that would hold a magazine vertically) rather than a huge bucket or shopper style. If you’re in a store, take off your coat and try on the bag in front of the mirror. If you think it may be dwarfing you, it probably is.

Of course, the reverse is also true. If you are very tall, plus sized or just generally curvy, tiny bags get lost on you. A tiny, monogrammed designer pouch under your arm may look expensive, but it’s also advertising your voluptuousness and/or making you look taller-than-life.

When handbag hunting, look for styles that are categorized as large or oversized instead of small or medium. Tall girls can get away with the new, slouchy, cross-body styles that hang past the hip. Curvy girls look great carrying wide shoppers and totes with all the bells and whistles—outside pockets, decorative hardware and so on. Don’t be afraid to be bold.

Above all else, have fun with your accessories. Don’t take the “rules” too seriously. After all, it’s just fashion!

Beyond the Bag: Accessorize to Scale:

1. Cuff bracelets and chunky watches abbreviate the length of your arm. When pairing these with three-quarter length sleeves, beware of visually eliminating your entire arm.
2. Dainty earrings should be left to those with dainty ears and earlobes.
3. Be mindful of belt widths: Petites and short-waisted girls should stick to under three inches. Tall and curvy girls look best in belts that are three inches and up.
4. If you have a short neck, chokers and scarves tied around your little neck serve only to highlight that fact.