Frequently, short women long to look taller. This innate desire may be fulfilled to a great extent through the illusions created by the smart use of lines and colours. Lines formed by either seams or prints do influence the looks of a person. Always remember the following tips while making judicious choice of your clothes to appear taller than you actually are:

·         Emphasise the vertical lines in the dresses as these guide the movement of eyes along the length and create an illusion of taller figure. Lines may be created through seams, tucks, sharp creases or pleats, lengthwise rows of top stitching, long slits of shirts, placket openings and row of buttons; laces, braids, contrast bindings and embroidery design in lengthwise direction. Remember, if your eye movement is guided uninterruptedly along the lines of a design in a lengthwise direction, then the effect of greater height is created.

·         Contrasting colours may also create a strong horizontal line and break the continuity of the eye movement along the length. Avoid the use of contrasting colours for the upper and lower garments. Say no to contrasting belts.

·          Greater illusion of height is created through the use of a narrow panel in centre front of shirt than a wide panel. Two vertical lines placed wide apart produce the effect of width instead of height. Look for single-breasted blazer.

·         Narrow vertical stripes placed along the entire width of the dress might create the effect of width instead of length.

·         Narrow horizontal stripes along the length of the garment create the effect of height due to ladder effect created by them.

·         Diagonal lines create the effect of height as well as width. The effect created by the diagonal lines depends on the angle and direction of the lines.

·         Avoid the use of dominant horizontal lines as these lines will create the effect of an increase in width.

·         Small prints, dainty embroidery work and soft textures will flatter your personality. Opt for fluid fabrics with a good drape, for creating a narrow profile. Heavy fabrics, large prints and heavy embroidery tend to overshadow the feminine personality. Avoid the use of bulky and stiff fabrics unless you are very thin.

·         Avoid the use of wide contrasting borders for the saris, shirts or other dresses. Never buy pants and jeans with cuffed bottoms.

·         Avoid the use of large shoulder bags.

Besides, careful selection of accessories and hairstyle can also go a long way to create the illusion of height. You may make use of high heels for formal occasions. The way you carry yourself in the chosen costume further affects your looks. Therefore, look into the mirror critically to assess the impact of what you wear.