Customer Spotlight: Melissa Gorga – How to Style a Petite Frame

Melissa Gorga really doesn’t need an introduction, but for those of who are new to Bravo’s Real Housewives’ franchise, she is hands down the New Jersey Housewives’ fan favorite. Our chief stylist, Grace, has had the pleasure of working with Melissa for the last three years, creating a fabulous partnership. As Grace explains, “Melissa is really a stylist's dream come true.  She is very open and not afraid to try new things, and looks good in everything… she favors short and sweet, but is not afraid to branch out into other looks.”

Over the years, we’ve been lucky to witness Melissa’s impeccable style develop under the spotlight. She was always beautiful and fashion-forward, but there is no denying her look has taken on a star quality over the past few years. Today, Grace favors dressing the fab housewife in urban-chic designer dresses that highlight Melissa’s tiny waist and incredible legs; however, with the maxi dress trend hitting big this summer, she has been including longer options as well.  “Melissa is petite, and a lot of petite clients protest length saying ‘oh, I can’t wear that!’ which is absolutely NOT true.  Petite women have all the same options as tall women… it simply comes down to how you style the look.  Actually, a longer maxi can elongate the body, which everyone loves!”

Grace offers these tips for incorporating Melissa’s unique, elegant-yet-sexy look into your wardrobe: 

• Choose sophisticated looks, but give them a sexy edge. Melissa usually wears body con dresses that – when paired with as sophisticated shoe - look sexy without being over-the-top.  
• Don’t be afraid to wear bright or fun colors. Grace notes that sherbets and corals are huge this summer and look fabulous against sun-kissed skin.
• Be open to any article of clothing that looks good on you and don’t let traditional “Do’s” and “Don'ts” dictate your closet. Melissa is smart with her fashion choices and doesn’t just stick to one style.  Don’t be afraid to branch out! You’ll probably find some clothes that make you look fantastic.
• Don’t let your height keep you from wearing some of the season’s biggest fashions! Invest in at least one maxi and high-low dress this summer. The maxi will elongate… and the high-low will show off your tan legs.

If you’re petite like Melissa, Grace has a few additional tips:

• The tailor is your friend. You can look amazing in that maxi dress you’ve had your eye on, but you don’t want it dragging the floor behind you. Alterations can make any dress perfect for your height.
• Invest in a pair of wedges. They’ll look beautiful and elongate your legs. Of course, if you’re wearing a sportier outfit, a cute nude or neutral sandal is just as good!
• Long skirts and dresses can actually make you look taller. When shopping for a long dress or skirt, look for one that grazes your figure slightly, instead of ones that are overtly poufy or cling too tight. Additionally, be sure to look for skirts that sit slightly higher on your waist.
• Channel your inner Melissa Gorga and be confident! If you wear your clothes with confidence, you stand taller and it ups the wow-factor.

We’re always impressed by Melissa’s style on The Real Housewives of New Jersey. Do you have a favorite outfit that Melissa has worn on the show? Let us know in the comments below!