fashion

'After years of trying to find pants that fit, these "tall girl" fashion hacks transformed my wardrobe.'

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My first memory of being "the tall girl" was at 13 when everyone was wearing Bloch flared leggings. When I finally convinced my mum to buy them for me, the flare ended at the calf. Not quite the look I was going for… and so began the struggle.

At 5 foot 11, I've spent a lot of time cursing too short jeans, jackets that barely reach my elbows and dresses that look like tops.

Watch: The importance of buying for your current body and lifestyle. Post continues below.


Mamamia.

Don't get me wrong, I love being tall. It contributed to a short career in modelling and I can always reach the top shelf, but it does have its challenges.

After years of trial and error, I have amassed a few tips (plus a few go-to brands) for my vertically blessed sisters. 

Fashion hacks and tips for tall girls.

When shopping online, check the model's height.

I am an avid online shopper but not being able to try on items can be risky and disappointing. The upside is that models are usually over 5 '9'', and most sites have the model's height in the description.

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So if the skirt looks like it's just a light breeze away from showing off your granny panties, then it's probably too short. Beware though, e-comm photography often includes a lot of bulldog clips and trickery, so always check the measurements of the item against your own.

Check the hem.

In the case of trousers, if there is a generous hem, you can easily unpick and redo yourself with some pretty basic sewing skills. You don't even need a sewing machine; with a quick YouTube search and a little moxie, you'll be able to give yourself those few extra centimetres.

If you don't trust yourself, find a good tailor to take them down for you. A little nip/tuck can make all the difference.

Shirts and jackets can be a bit more challenging, so I often just lean into the rolled-up three-quarter look.

Shop designers from "tall countries".

Hear me out: with the Netherlands, Sweden and Canada topping the tallest average height charts, it's worthwhile looking at designers from those countries.

Brands like Nudie Jeans (originally from Sweden) and Lululemon (Canada) are perfect for us tall gals. I learnt this the hard way when living in Japan at 19, where the average height for women is 5'2''.

Even going up a size, the proportions were way off. Pretty sure knee rips in jeans aren't supposed to be on your thighs.

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Buy a size up.

The oversized trend is a favourite of mine but often hard to execute when you're 5'11. This is especially true for shirts and tees. If you want that casual, slouchy look, just go a size or two up to give yourself the extra length.

Shop menswear.

Much to my husband's chagrin, I steal his jeans all the time. Low slung on the hip and with lots of length, it gives true meaning to "boyfriend jean".

boyfriend jeans for tall girlsKsenija wearing one of her husband's jeans. Image: Supplied.

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I also buy all my trackies from the menswear department and, because of the dreaded pink tax, it's usually cheaper!

Try these:

Wear the heels.

This isn't so much a fashion tip as it is a call to arms. I have spent many an event slouching to hear what my shorter friends are saying, but I refuse to let that stop me from wearing my favourite heels. If the guy on Hinge tells you he's 6 foot and shows up closer to 5 '8'', embrace it and let your tall girl aura shine.

My go-to designers for tall girls.

So, with all that in mind, here are my go-tos.

ASOS Tall.

It does what it says and at an excellent price point. I recently bought a pair of trousers from here and was surprised at the quality. Plus the length was enough for flats and heels!

ASOS Tall tailored wide leg pants with pleat detail, $70.

tailored wide leg pants for tall girlsTall tailored wide leg pants with pleat detail in khaki. Image: ASOS.

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Zara.

If you're in the market for jeans, Zara is an excellent option. Surprisingly long and a great selection.

Uniqlo.

The hero of basics. I get all my T-shirts from here (in both the men's and women's departments).

Djerf Avenue.

This Swedish label is the ultimate in cool-girl minimalism.

Rebecca Vallance.

For occasion wear and great suiting, Rebecca Vallance is at the top of my list. Bec is 5'11 herself and her pieces are beautifully made. Definitely on the spendy side, but absolutely worth it.

maroon silk dress for tall girls Rebecca VallanceKsenija wearing Rebecca Vallance. Image: Supplied.

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Anine Bing.

Another spendy, but this LA designer does denim so well.

Want more fashion tips for tall girls? Read these next:

Feature image: Supplied.

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