Petite Fashion: Dressing Your Best at Any Height

When it comes to Petite Fashion, many women under 5’4″ often feel confused trying to find clothes that truly fit and flatter. I’ve been there – standing in front of a mirror, wearing tops too long, jeans dragging on the floor, and blazers that felt more like dress-up than confidence. What I discovered is that style and confidence aren’t about height, but about mastering proportion. Whether you’re 4’11” or 5’3″, the key lies in looking balanced and moving effortlessly with smart tricks and styling ideas designed for petite frames.

Being part of the petite club taught me more than just what to wear – it gave me access to insider secrets and essential tips from top influencers and stylists who understand real sizing challenges. They helped me navigate the world of Petite Fashion, showing that every outfit can be a true reflection of confidence. And while finding your perfect style might feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, this comprehensive guide offers the knowledge you need to see that great fashion is not only possible – it’s made for every category of petite women, no matter your height or proportion.

Understanding Petite Fashion

What “Petite” Really Means

The word petite doesn’t mean small – it refers to height-based proportion, not body size. A petite woman can wear size 0 or size 14, but her frame is shorter from shoulder to hem.
In general:

Feature	Petite Fit	Regular Fit
Height	Under 5’4”	5’5” and above
Inseam	25–28 inches	30–32 inches
Arm length	Shorter	Standard
Torso length	Compact	Longer

So, petite fashion isn’t about being skinny – it’s about finding clothes cut for shorter proportions.

Proportions Over Height

Fashion experts agree: balance beats height. The goal isn’t to look taller – it’s to create a visual line that feels natural.
Here’s how proportion plays a role:

• Short torso? Choose high-waisted pants.
  
• Short legs? Go for cropped jackets or tucked tops.
  
• Longer legs but short arms? Look for ¾ sleeves.
  

“Petite dressing is not about hiding your height – it’s about highlighting your harmony.”  –  Style Consultant, Emma Reeves.

The Science Behind Fit

When clothes are made for taller frames, they distort proportions on petite women. For example:

• A regular-size blazer might have shoulder seams that hang too low.
• Regular jeans may pool at the ankle and shorten your leg line.
• Dresses might hit the wrong part of your thigh or knee, ruining balance.

That’s why petite-specific clothing adjusts the rise, sleeve length, and hemline.
Here’s a quick chart for comparison:

Clothing Type	Regular Fit Issue	Petite Adjustment
Jeans	Too long inseam	Cropped or ankle length
Blazer	Oversized shoulders	Narrower fit
Dress	Waist hits too low	Higher waist seam
Coat	Too bulky	Slimmer cut

In short, proper fit = visual confidence.

Mastering Petite Sizing

How Petite Sizing Differs from Regular Sizing

Petite clothing brands use a different pattern block – not just a shorter hem.
Key differences include:

• Shorter inseam on pants.
• Higher knee and waist placement.
• Shorter rise (so pants sit comfortably on the waist).
• Narrower shoulder width.
  

That means when you buy petite, you’re not just shortening the garment – you’re getting precision proportions.

Decoding Size Charts

Not all brands define “petite” the same way. Here’s a table of common size guides for popular brands:

Brand	Petite Height Range	Inseam	Notes
Ann Taylor	4’11” – 5’4″	26–28″	True petite cut
ASOS Petite	5’3″ and under	Varies	Trendy fits
Banana Republic	5’0″ – 5’4″	26–29″	Professional tailoring
H&M	5’1″ – 5’4″	27–28″	Budget-friendly
Reformation Petite	5’0″ – 5’3″	26–27″	Sustainable fabrics

Pro Tip: Always check the inseam measurement, not just the “petite” label. Some brands’ petite lines still run long!

Online Shopping Tips for Petites

Online shopping can be tricky, but these steps help:

1. Know your exact measurements  –  bust, waist, hip, inseam, and shoulder width.
2. Compare sizing charts  –  don’t assume the same “4P” fits across brands.
3. Look for model height details in product descriptions.
4. Read customer reviews for notes like “fits short” or “runs long.”
5. Favor adjustable or stretch fabrics  –  more forgiving for minor differences.

Example:
A petite shopper, Maria (5’1”), found that Banana Republic’s 25-inch inseam pants fit her perfectly, while the same “petite” size from Zara still needed hemming. This shows why brand-specific research pays off.

Mini Case Study: Petite Fit Success

When Reformation launched its Petite Collection, it adjusted over 14 key measurements, not just hemlines. The result?

• 80% fewer returns from petite customers.
• 92% higher satisfaction ratings for “fit accuracy.”

This data proves: when brands take petite proportions seriously, customers notice.

Quick Fit Checklist for Petites

✅ Shoulders sit perfectly on your frame.
✅ Sleeves end right at your wrist bone.
✅ Pants stop at the ankle without folding.
✅ Waistband sits on your natural waist.
✅ Dress hems hit just above or below the knee.

If you check all five boxes, congratulations  –  that’s a perfect petite fit!

“The right petite size makes you look taller – not because of illusion, but because of precision.”  –  Fashion Editor, Mia Chen.

Up next:
In Part 2, we’ll explore core styling principles, wardrobe essentials, and real-life outfit formulas that every petite woman should know  –  plus, how to pick the best brands and retailers in 2025 for flawless fits.

Core Styling Principles for Petite Women

Looking stylish as a petite woman isn’t about adding height – it’s about creating balance and flow. These petite styling tips help you look well-proportioned and confident in any outfit.

1. Create Vertical Lines

Vertical lines make the eyes move up and down – creating a taller illusion.

How to Do It:

• Wear monochrome outfits (same color top to bottom).
• Try long cardigans, dusters, or open blazers.
• Choose high-waisted jeans or skirts.
• Avoid wide horizontal stripes or bulky color blocks.

Example:
A navy jumpsuit with a long pendant necklace gives one a clean line. It’s one of the most effective petite outfit formulas ever.

2. Define the Waistline

Your waist is your power point. When it’s defined, your silhouette looks balanced and structured.

Try these:

• Wrap dresses and belted blazers for a cinched waist.
• High-rise trousers that meet your natural waist.
• Peplum tops for an instant hourglass shape.

Quick Tip:
Belts should be thin or medium – not too wide. Thick belts can cut your frame in half and make you look shorter.

3. Choose the Right Hemlines

Hemlines are everything in petite fashion styling. They decide whether your outfit elongates or shrinks your figure.

Garment Type	Ideal Hemline for Petites	Avoid
Skirts & Dresses	Just above the knee or mid-thigh	Calf-length without heels
Pants	Cropped or ankle-length	Floor-dragging flares
Shorts	Mid-thigh	Super long Bermuda

Pro Tip:
If you love midi skirts, choose one with a slit or defined waistline to maintain vertical balance.

4. Fabric and Fit

Petite frames look best in lightweight and structured fabrics. Avoid bulky knits or oversized layers that swallow your shape.

Best fabrics:

• Cotton blends
• Soft denim
• Linen
• Silk or chiffon

Avoid:

• Chunky wool
• Boxy tweed jackets
• Oversized puffers

A structured blazer in soft linen can do more for a petite woman than any trendy oversized jacket ever will

5. Patterns and Colors

Use prints wisely to flatter your frame.

• Vertical stripes elongate.
• Small prints (like micro-florals or polka dots) keep proportions right.
• Dark solid colors like navy, charcoal, or burgundy give length.
• Monochrome dressing is a petite woman’s best friend.

“Petite women don’t need to dress big – they need to dress balanced.”  –  Stylist Kate Rivers.

Petite Wardrobe Essentials

Building a petite wardrobe doesn’t mean owning a lot – it means owning the right pieces that always fit and flatter.

Below are the must-have wardrobe essentials for petite women, with reasons they work.

Wardrobe Item	Why It Works for Petites
Tailored Blazer	Defines shoulders and waist for a structured height illusion.
High-Waisted Jeans/Trousers	Makes legs appear longer; balances torso.
V-Neck Tops	Draws the eye down; visually lengthens neck.
Wrap Dresses	Flatters curves and short torsos equally.
A-Line Skirts	Creates proportion without bulk.
Pointed-Toe Shoes	Elongates legs; gives a sleek silhouette.
Cropped Jackets	Shortens upper body length, balances shape.
Monochrome Sets	Streamlines outfit flow.

Example Capsule Outfit Ideas

1. Smart Casual:
High-waist jeans + tucked-in blouse + cropped blazer + nude flats.

2. Workwear:
Slim trousers + V-neck blouse + fitted blazer + pointed heels.

3. Weekend Look:
A-line skirt + tucked tee + ankle boots + minimal accessories.

4. Date Night:
Wrap dress + waist belt + strappy heels.

Quick Tip Table: Outfit Do’s and Don’ts

Do	Don’t
Wear fitted blazers	Oversized boyfriend jackets
Choose cropped pants	Long flared pants without heels
Add vertical accessories	Horizontal belts or thick chokers
Tuck in tops	Untucked long shirts
Wear nude or same-tone heels	Heavy boots or ankle straps

Best Petite-Friendly Brands and Retailers (2025 Edition)

Shopping can be hard for petite women – but the fashion world is changing fast. Many brands now design clothing made just for you.

Here’s a list of top petite-friendly brands with their strengths.

Brand	Style Type	Price Range	What Makes Them Great
Petite Studio NYC	Minimalist, modern	$$$	Specializes only in petites with luxury tailoring.
ASOS Petite	Trendy & fast fashion	$	Wide variety of sizes and short inseams.
Reformation Petite	Sustainable & feminine	$$$	Cuts 14+ body points for an accurate petite fit.
Ann Taylor Petite	Workwear & classic	$$	Timeless office-ready pieces for 5’4” and under.
Banana Republic Petite	Polished & professional	$$	Great for trousers, blazers, and dresses.
PrettyLittleThing Petite	Street style	$	Budget-friendly trends tailored for petites.
Abercrombie Petite	Everyday casual	$$	Denim fits with precise inseam options.
Nordstrom Petite Section	All-around	$$-$$$	Huge selection of petite brands in one place.

Case Study: Real Results from Petite Studio NYC

A 2024 customer survey showed:

• 89% of petite buyers said their clothes fit “perfectly” the first time.
• The average return rate was only 6%, compared to the 22% industry average.

This shows that brands investing in petite-specific patterns create loyal customers and better fit satisfaction.

Budget-Friendly Petite Options

Not every petite woman wants designer prices.
Here are a few affordable options that still give a great fit and value:

• H&M Petite Section – simple basics for everyday looks.
• Target’s Wild Fable Line – petite jeans and skirts under $40.
• Old Navy Petite – size-inclusive with regular, tall, and petite cuts.
• Amazon Essentials Petite – good quality staples, easy returns.

“Petite fashion isn’t about spending more – it’s about spending smart on clothes made for your height.”  –  Fashion Blogger, Clara H.

Tailoring Tip

If you find a piece you love but it doesn’t fit perfectly, invest in small alterations. A $15 hem can make a $30 pair of jeans look designer-made.

Pro Tip Table: Petite Shopping Hacks

Situation	Smart Fix
Pants too long	Cuff them inward or visit a tailor
Sleeves too long	Roll or push up neatly
Loose waist	Use a thin belt or alter
Dress too baggy	Add a cropped jacket
Oversized shirt	Tuck in front only (French tuck)

Tailoring and Alterations: Your Secret Weapon

Every petite woman should know this truth: the tailor is your best friend.

Even the most stylish outfit looks awkward if the fit is off. Tailoring helps you turn “almost right” pieces into “absolutely perfect” ones. And that’s what petite fashion mastery is all about – precision.

Why Tailoring Is Worth It

Petite women often face these challenges:

• Jeans that are too long
• Blazers that droop at the shoulder
• Dresses with waist seams that sit too low

A simple alteration can change the entire look.

Example:
Sara, a 5’2” marketing professional, bought a Banana Republic blazer she loved – but it looked boxy. A $20 shoulder adjustment and $15 sleeve shortening later, it looked custom-made.
Her quote:

“I stopped hunting for the perfect fit and started creating it.”

That’s the power of tailoring.

Most Common Petite Alterations

Garment	Typical Issue	Simple Alteration	Approx. Cost
Jeans	Too long	Hem shortening	$10–$20
Blazer	Long sleeves	Sleeve shortening	$15–$30
Dress	Waist too low	Raise waistline	$20–$35
Pants	Loose waist	Take in the waistband	$10–$25
Top	Oversized shoulders	Narrow shoulders	$20–$40

Tip: Ask the tailor to preserve original hems (especially for denim) for a clean factory finish.

Finding a Good Tailor

A skilled tailor can change how you feel in your clothes. Look for:
✅ Experience with women’s tailoring.
✅ Willingness to pin and mark garments precisely.
✅ Reviews that mention “fit perfection.”

Ask:

• “Can you shorten without losing the design?”
• “Can you adjust the waist without touching the pockets?”

“A petite wardrobe without a tailor is like a painting without a frame.”  –  Style Mentor, Lauren K.

DIY Tips for Minor Fixes

Not every adjustment needs a professional. Try:

• Hemming tape for temporary length fixes.
• Waist cinchers or belts for instant waist definition.
• Shortening straps on dresses using safety pins or small stitches.
• Folding sleeve cuffs neatly instead of cutting.

Example:
A TikTok creator (height 5’0”) demonstrated how she used double-sided hem tape to shorten jeans by 2 inches – no sewing required! Her video got 3M views because it solved a common pain point affordably.

VII. Accessorizing for Petite Frames

Accessories can make or break your look – especially for petites. The goal? Enhance, not overpower.

Jewelry Proportion Rules

• Choose delicate necklaces, small pendants, or layered thin chains.
• Earrings should frame the face, not dominate it. Small hoops or drop earrings work best.
• Avoid oversized statement pieces that make your neck look shorter.

Table: Jewelry Size Guide for Petites

Jewelry Type	Best Option	Avoid
Necklaces	Dainty chains, short pendants	Thick chokers, heavy layers
Earrings	Small drops, studs	Large hoops, chandelier styles
Bracelets	Thin bangles	Chunky cuffs

Choosing the Right Handbags

A petite woman should never disappear behind her bag. Choose ones in proportion to your body.

Best Bag Styles:

• Crossbody bags (medium size)
• Small shoulder bags
• Mini structured totes

Avoid:

• Oversized slouchy totes
• Giant backpacks

Example:
Selena Gomez (5’4”) often carries boxy mini bags or crossbody purses – these styles highlight her frame rather than overpowering it.

Belts, Scarves, and Hats

These details can elevate your look – if used smartly.

Belts:

• Thin to medium width works best.
• Place it at the narrowest part of your waist.

Scarves:

• Lightweight and narrow styles add height.
• Avoid bulky wraps that hide your neckline.

Hats:

• Small brims (like a fedora or beret) complement your height.
• Avoid wide-brimmed floppy hats – they shorten your frame visually.

Footwear Choices for Petites

Shoes are where height and comfort meet. Choose wisely:

Best Styles:

• Pointed-toe flats or pumps (elongate legs).
• Nude heels match your skin tone.
• Low ankle boots that stop below the ankle bone.

Avoid:

• Heavy platform sneakers.
• Thick ankle straps that cut leg lines.
• Overly chunky soles.

Fun Fact:
According to a 2024 fashion study, women under 5’3” wearing nude-tone pointed shoes appear up to 2.3 inches taller visually in photos. It’s optical magic!

“Accessories for petites are not about scale – they’re about story. Every detail should tell yours.”  –  Fashion Stylist, Tara Li.

Petite Outfit Formulas for Every Occasion

Every petite woman should have go-to outfit formulas that always work. These combos help you look balanced, chic, and confident without overthinking.

1. Workwear Staples

Formula:
Tailored pants + fitted blouse + cropped blazer + pointed-toe heels.

Why It Works:
Each element defines the waist and elongates the leg. Neutral tones create a vertical line.

Pro Tip:
Try monochrome dressing (like beige on beige) to make your look seamless.

2. Casual Everyday Looks

Formula:
High-waist jeans + tucked tee + short cardigan or jacket.

Why It Works:
Tucking in adds height; cropped outerwear defines balance.

Real Example:
Actress Lucy Hale (5’2”) often wears cropped denim jackets with high-rise jeans – it’s a proven petite fashion hack for weekend style.

3. Evening & Party Outfits

Formula:
Mini wrap dress + thin waist belt + nude heels.

Why It Works:
It highlights curves, defines the waist, and gives a height illusion.
Add long earrings or a clutch to keep things sleek.

4. Travel & Street Style

Formula:
Stretch jeans + tank top + cropped bomber + white sneakers.

Why It Works:
Comfort meets proportion. Keeps you mobile while elongating your body visually.

5. Seasonal Petite Outfit Ideas Table

Season	Outfit Formula	Footwear
Spring	Floral mini dress + denim jacket	Nude heels
Summer	Cropped linen pants + sleeveless top	Slides
Fall	High-waist jeans + trench coat	Ankle boots
Winter	Turtleneck + A-line skirt + tights	Knee boots

Real-World Case Study: The 5’1” Fashion Influencer

Influencer Jessica Tran (5’1”) built her brand on petite styling. She applies 3 golden rules:

1. Always tuck tops.
2. Never wear pants without showing her ankles.
3. Balance layers – one long, one short.

Her photos create a 5’6” illusion – showing how styling tricks outperform height every time.

“Petite fashion isn’t about dressing tall – it’s about dressing right.”  –  Jessica Tran, Petite Influencer.

Common Petite Fashion Mistakes to Avoid

Even the most stylish petite women can fall into fashion traps that make them look shorter or unbalanced. The key to great petite fashion is knowing what to skip.

Here are the most common mistakes petite women should avoid  –  and what to do instead.

1. Wearing Oversized Silhouettes

Baggy sweaters or wide-leg pants might feel trendy, but they can overwhelm a petite frame.

Instead:

• Go for fitted or semi-fitted pieces that show your shape.
• If you love the oversized trend, balance one loose item with a fitted piece (like a slouchy sweater with slim jeans).

2. Ignoring Proportions When Layering

Wearing long tops over long jackets creates a “stacked” look that shortens your body line.

Try This:

• Use shorter layers on top (cropped jackets, tucked blouses).
• Add a belt or tuck to define your waistline.

3. Choosing Chunky Footwear

Heavy boots or thick sneakers can visually weigh down your outfit.

Better Options:

• Pointed-toe flats or slim boots.
• Low block heels for comfort and lift.

“When in doubt, simplify your shoes. Clean lines equal longer legs.”  –  Petite Stylist, Ava Mendez

4. Over-Accessorizing

Layering too many bold accessories can crowd your look. Petite frames need breathing space.

Keep It Simple:

• Choose one statement item (like earrings or a scarf).
• Stick to delicate jewelry and small bags.

5. Wearing Mid-Calf Lengths Without Heels

Mid-calf skirts or dresses can visually “cut” your legs in half.

Fix It:

• Pick knee-length or mini styles for balance.
• If you wear midi lengths, add heels or nude footwear to elongate.

Quick Fix Table: Common Mistakes & Smart Solutions

Common Mistake	Simple Fix
Oversized coat	Choose tailored or cropped outerwear
Long tops	Tuck or knot at the waist
Chunky boots	Swap for pointed flats or ankle boots
Baggy pants	Try straight or slim cuts
Low-waist jeans	Replace with high-rise styles

Real Case Example:

Before:
Mina, 5’0”, wore oversized sweaters and wide pants. Her outfits looked shapeless.

After applying petite tips:
She switched to high-waisted jeans, cropped blazers, and neutral heels. Her coworkers immediately noticed she looked “taller and more confident.”

Mina’s takeaway:

“I didn’t change my height – I changed my proportions.”

The Power of Capsule Wardrobes for Petites

Capsule wardrobes are a game-changer for petite women. They simplify dressing while ensuring everything fits and flatters your frame.

A capsule wardrobe is a small collection of versatile pieces that mix and match effortlessly. For petites, this means fewer clothes, more impact.

Why Capsule Wardrobes Work for Petites

• No wasted space: You focus only on clothes that truly fit.
• Balanced silhouettes: Everything coordinates in proportion.
• Quick dressing: You spend less time choosing, more time glowing.
• Sustainable fashion: Less clutter, less waste.

“A capsule wardrobe for petites isn’t limiting – it’s liberating.”  –  Eco Stylist, Hannah Lo

Building a 20-Piece Petite Capsule Wardrobe

Here’s an ideal list to start your own collection:

Category	Pieces	Notes
Tops	4	Fitted tees, blouses, and V-necks
Bottoms	4	High-rise jeans, trousers, and midi skirts
Dresses	3	Wrap, A-line, and fitted sheath styles
Jackets	3	Cropped blazer, denim, and trench coat
Shoes	3	Nude heels, ankle boots, loafers
Accessories	3	Crossbody bag, delicate jewelry, thin belt

Color Tip:
Stick to a neutral base palette – black, beige, navy, white – and sprinkle in 2 accent colors (like blush or olive).[

Capsule Wardrobe Outfit Formulas

Occasion	Outfit Combo	Why It Works
Work	Cropped blazer + slim trousers + blouse	Polished and elongating
Casual	High-rise jeans + tucked tee + sneakers	Balanced and relaxed
Evening	Wrap dress + nude heels	Elegant and lengthening
Travel	Linen pants + short jacket	Comfortable yet structured

Seasonal Rotation Tip

Each season, swap out 5–6 pieces instead of buying new wardrobes. Keep silhouettes consistent so proportions stay balanced.

Example:
Replace your summer wrap dress with a winter sweater dress, but keep your same nude heels and structured blazer – it keeps your look cohesive year-round.

Real Petite Capsule Wardrobe Example:

Fashion blogger Emily (5’1”) created a 20-piece capsule and shared:

“I no longer feel like I’m drowning in clothes that don’t fit. Every piece now feels like it belongs.”

Her petite capsule included:

• 2 blazers, 3 trousers, 2 jeans, 3 dresses, 3 tops, 2 skirts, 3 shoes, and 2 accessories.
  She found that her morning routine went from 20 minutes to 5 minutes. That’s the magic of simplicity.

Petite Fashion Inspiration

When it comes to petite fashion, inspiration matters. Seeing real women dress confidently at any height builds belief.

Top Petite Influencers and Stylists to Follow

Influencer	Height	Style Focus	Platform
Jean Wang (@extraPetite)	5’0”	Classic & elegant	Instagram, Blog
Katherine Bond (@katie_did_what)	5’2”	Everyday casual	Instagram
Jessica Tran (@jessicatran)	5’1”	Modern minimalism	TikTok
Natalie Suarez (@natalieoffduty)	5’3”	Edgy streetwear	Instagram
Petite Studio NYC	–	Brand & inspiration hub	Website, IG

Celebrity Style Icons Under 5’4”

• Ariana Grande (5’0”) – Loves short skirts and thigh-high boots.
• Reese Witherspoon (5’1”) – Rocks A-line dresses and tailored blazers.
• Rachel Bilson (5’2”) – Known for cropped jackets and monochrome looks.
• Lady Gaga (5’1”) – Plays with vertical styling and bold shapes.

These women prove that height never limits style – it’s all about proportion and attitude.

Final Thoughts

Petite fashion isn’t about following strict rules – it’s about understanding proportions and celebrating your unique body type. Whether you’re 4’10” or 5’4”, the secret to dressing your best lies in fit, balance, and confidence. Every petite woman deserves to feel stylish without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

Invest in tailoring, embrace high-waisted styles, and use vertical lines to elongate your silhouette. Build a capsule wardrobe with versatile pieces that mix easily, keeping your look fresh and effortless. Don’t be afraid of color, texture, or patterns – just make sure they complement your proportions.

Remember, confidence is the most powerful accessory you can wear. Petite fashion is about owning your height with pride and using style as a form of self-expression. As fashion evolves, so do your choices – adapt, experiment, and have fun with it.

At the end of the day, style isn’t about size – it’s about how you feel wearing it. So dress boldly, tailor smartly, and stand tall, because being petite is not a limitation – it’s your advantage in crafting looks that are elegant, intentional, and uniquely you.

FAQs

What does petite size mean in fashion?

Petite sizing is designed for women 5’4” and under, offering shorter hemlines, higher waistlines, and proportionally balanced fits to flatter smaller frames without altering the overall design.

What type of jeans look best on petites?

High-rise straight or skinny jeans are ideal. They elongate your legs, define your waist, and create a taller illusion – especially when paired with nude or pointed-toe shoes.

Can petite women wear maxi dresses?

Yes! Choose maxi dresses with vertical prints, slits, or cinched waists. Avoid overly flowy fabrics; instead, opt for lightweight materials that move naturally and highlight your frame.

Which shoes make petite women look taller?

Nude heels, ankle boots, and pointed flats work best. These create an unbroken line that lengthens the legs. Avoid chunky soles or straps that cut across your ankle.

Are cropped jackets good for petites?

Absolutely! Cropped jackets highlight the waist and make your legs appear longer. They pair beautifully with high-rise pants or skirts, giving petites a clean, elevated silhouette.