Wednesday, February 14, 2024

The Best Chunky Jewelry To Elevate Your Look — Starting At $20

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Chunky jewelry is an easy cool girl accessory, and we’re excited that it’s here to stay. It’s an impactful way to add some styling to a look in a flash. And as much as we love layering dainty jewelry, sometimes the look (or the clock) calls for a quick statement piece that gets you out the door fast. Of course, as the true maximalist knows, chunky jewelry can also be layered for a real show-stopping look. Whichever path you choose, you can’t go wrong. The jewelry style ranges from trendy heart-shaped accessories to fine jewelry, and no matter the price, chunky jewelry is always playful and bold.

We’ve compiled the best chunky jewelry under the $300 mark across a range of styles, metals, occasions, and more. So if you’re looking to take on 2024 jewelry trends, such as all things silver, adorable bow accessories, and oceanic influences, read on to find statement pieces you’ll want to add to your spring wardrobe.

The Best Chunky Earrings

These chunky earrings aren’t your typical earrings. We picked sculptural statement hoops and droplet studs in a range of styles that could be worn for Friday nights out or to an elegant wedding. Consider adding any one of these earrings to your collection and instantly transform looks into bold ones.

The Best Chunky Necklaces

When we think of chunky necklaces, chain styles are the ones that come to mind. But they don’t just need to be gold or silver; multicolored ocean-themed necklaces have been spotted on catwalks along with mixed materials, such as pearls and gold. Youthful styles like puffy initial necklaces and charm necklaces are also having a moment. 

The Best Chunky Bracelets

Bracelets are typically the jewelry piece we feel we can play with and switch up the most. You might as well go all out with the chunky jewelry trend. Everything from freshwater pearls to heart-shaped bracelets have modern interpretations of everyday jewelry.

Chunky Rings

Chunky rings may have previously been reserved for cocktail parties, but the novelty style has become more of an everyday look. Whether you want a classic, streamlined piece or a chic bauble, there are countless chunky rings that are a major upgrade from your Grandma’s costume jewelry.

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What To Wear To New York Fashion Week, According To R29 Editors

With temperatures going from a mild 58 degrees Fahrenheit to a snowstorm-induced 25 in the span of six days, dressing for New York Fashion Week this season was a challenge. But as pros, with seasons and seasons of FW experience and street style know-how under their belts, Refinery29’s fashion editors were unfazed by the changing weather patterns, whipping out some of 2024’s biggest fashion trends, including the color red and tailored suiting, as well as hot accessories like ballet flats and oversized clutches, snow or shine. From day one that saw editors ditching their bulky winter jackets to one that required pulling out a ski puffer, ahead, what the R29 team wore to New York Fashion Week Fall 2024 runway shows.

All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.

New York Fall 2024 Outfit: Trench Coat & Ballet Flats

Scarf coats continue to be a popular outerwear trend. For the first day of NYFW, I wore a COS trench with accessory-inspired detailing that I further adorned with a rosette applique that I got at Copenhagen Fashion Week. I’ve been hesitant to get back on the ballet flat train, due to memories of painful blisters and throbbing feet from no arch support, but this pair from Mansur Gavriel made me reconsider that stance — I wore them all day with zero pain or discomfort.” — Irina Grechko, Fashion Director

New York Fall 2024 Outfit: City Cowgirl Look

“It was a cosmic connection that Beyoncé announced her upcoming country album days after I wore this outfit. I’ve been really inspired by Lana del Rey’s cover of ‘Take Me Home, Country Roads’ since she dropped it late last year, and as a rural girl, I had to represent at New York Fashion Week. This fringe shirt by Rabot looks heavy but it’s really super soft, which balanced out the heavy denim skirt, which is by Belkys Studio. Instead of a coat, I wore a layered turtleneck underneath.” — Frances Solá Santiago, Fashion Writer 

New York Fall 2024 Outfit: Maxi Denim Skirt 

“While denim maxi skirts are back in the trend cycle, in my book, they never went away — and aren’t going away anytime soon! — thanks to the way they can elevate denim. For the warmest day of the week, I wore a white one — which you can also substitute for a pair of cream jeans if you prefer pants — with a classic blazer and button-down. To add a bit more interest to the look, consider wearing a colored turtleneck underneath the shirt and a pair of patterned black tights.” — IG

New York Fall 2024 Outfit: Maxi Dress & Long Coat

“This is the most comfortable outfit I have ever worn to New York Fashion Week. The soft fabric of this dress, which is by Ninety Percent, paired with the oversized coat allowed me to move freely on a super busy day. I added my trusty Saint Laurent tote bag, which is perfect for days when I have to carry my entire life in my handbag.” — FSS 

New York Fall 2024 Outfit: Leather Jacket & Sneakers

“For the day of back-to-back shows and running around, I selected a comfort-first look that included chunky sneakers — from the Adidas x Bad Bunny collab — and slouchy flannel pants that felt more like sweatpants. To prevent the outfit from looking too casual, I finished it with a leather bomber with a fluffy collar, statement earrings, and an oversized clutch in  trendy red.” — IG

New York Fall 2024 Outfit: Harness Coat

“New York Fashion Week gets exhausting by day three. So my strategy during the cold-weather season is to make the coat the outfit. This one from New York-based label Adeam is structured yet comfortable, while the maxi length makes me look inches taller. I chose to keep it simple with a black turtleneck and matching pants because the harness was really the star of the show here.” — FSS

New York Fall 2024 Outfit: Pantsuit 

“After days of neutral outfits, I wanted to brighten things up. This pantsuit not only shines bright on a gloomy day it also doesn’t wrinkle, making it the perfect choice for a day involving constantly sitting down at shows and traveling from venue to venue. While the set doesn’t need any styling thanks to the bright color, I opted for a red sweater rather than a standard white shirt, and a Valentine’s Day-themed heart bag. For nighttime events,  I switched out the loafers for red socks and heeled sandals, my favorite hack for wearing your summer shoes in the winter.” — IG

New York Fall 2024 Outfit: White Dress & Combat Boots

“Who sees a snowstorm forecast and still wears a white dress? Me. During my last day of New York Fashion Week, I decided to sport a maxi white dress, paired with a long navy coat and black combat boots because I needed an outfit that made me feel elegant on an otherwise miserable day. The dress did not make it home without a stain, but that’s what detergent is for.” — FSS

New York Fall 2024 Outfit: Statement Puffer 

“During a day that was impacted by the snowstorm, I started planning my outfit by selecting warm outerwear first. To keep the focus on the printed ski jacket — yes, I wasn’t playing around in the weather — I opted for basics with interesting details to wear underneath: a shirt with a built-in tie and black pants with a tuxedo-inspired waistline.” — IG

New York Fall 2024 Outfit: Layers On Layers

“For the last day of New York Fashion Week — which was also the coldest! — I layered up. I started with a turtleneck, tights, and another denim maxi skirt before topping it off with a cashmere hoodie from Banana Republic’s menswear section and a Veronica Beard’s Dickey Jacket in denim and plaid, which has become my go-to for a layered look that doesn’t constrict my movement. I topped it off with a 3-in-1 jacket from Serena Williams’ collaboration with Nike.” — IG

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19 Fashion Brands That Get Petite Sizing Just Right

Clothing shopping can be tricky at the best of times, but as soon as you throw in an addition variable—like being shorter than the average person—it inevitably becomes even more difficult.

Very few brands understand petite dimensions, and even fewer understand that petite people come in all shapes and sizes. Contrary to what you may think, petite fashion doesn't refer to a small waist size, but rather, the the length of garments.

Shopping for petite clothing becomes particularly difficult when hunting for items that aren't so easily altered like jeans or pants. Plus, swimwear, eveningwear, and dresses are often more difficult to find at the right length or flattering proportions if you're under 5'5".

To help aid your shopping experience, we've rounded up the best petite clothing brands to shop in 2024.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

For more can't-miss shopping stories delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our Most Wanted newsletter.

Madewell


As the name suggests, Madewell's goal is to create pieces that are made... well. That translates to a petites range that includes all styles of denim and wide-leg pants (plus slip skirts and dresses depending on the season). We're big fans of Madewell's Harlow Pant in its petite and curvy size options for the perfect fit.

Shop Madewell

Madewell The Petite Harlow Wide-Leg Pant, $, available at Madewell

PAIGE


One of the most common gripes for shorter women is finding denim that fits. Paige offers just about every style in flattering petite sizes (from skinny to wide-leg) for those who stand 5' 4" and under.

Shop PAIGE

PAIGE Gemma Petite Jeans, $, available at PAIGE

ASOS DESIGN


ASOS's petite range includes styles from brands like Topshop, Glamorous, and Miss Selfridge. But the petite styles from ASOS DESIGN are particularly extensive and include many jeans, coats, crop tops, and midi dresses that range from casual to elegant.

Shop ASOS

ASOS DESIGN Petite Knitted Fit & Flare Mini Dress, $, available at ASOS

Never Fully Dressed


Never Fully Dressed is the label for those special occasions when you need a bold and bright outfit. The brand's petite clothing collection spans summer cocktail dresses, leather bottoms, wrap skirts, and chic jackets designed to fit women who are 5'3" or under. While most of the petite styles only go up to a size 12, the regular styles go up to size 24.

Shop Never Fully Dressed

Never Fully Dressed Petite Havana Short Sleeve May Dress, $, available at Never Fully Dressed

Everlane


R29 reader-favorite brand Everlane doesn't go out of its way to promote a petite range but naturally bakes it into its collections. Click around the jean selection and you'll find many best-selling pairs in a variety of lengths, like The Curvy '90s Cheeky Jean (26.5" inseam) and The Way-High Jean (25.5" inseam).

Shop Everlane

Everlane 26.5" Inseam The Curvy ’90s Cheeky Jean, $, available at Everlane

TALA


TALA was created in 2019 as a sustainable and inclusive activewear label, and the petite girl edit does not disappoint, with a range of shorter full-length and 24-inch 7/8 styles. Most of the petite styles also go up to 4XL, ensuring that more shoppers can find the perfect legging.

Shop TALA

Tala 7/8 DayFlex Wrap High Waisted Legging, $, available at Tala

Abrand Jeans


Abrand's ethos is to create wardrobe basics that fit just right. The petite jean range designed for women under 5'4" carries high- and low-rise styles, as well as skinny jeans and baggier fits—all available in both regular and petite lengths, which are up to 2.5 inches shorter.

Shop Abrand Jeans

Abrand Jeans 99 Low Straight Petite Walkaway Jean, $, available at Abrand Jeans

Reformation


The petite range at sustainable LA-born label Reformation is regarded as a favorite amongst petite shoppers. The selection is varied, with mini dresses as well as maxi skirts, trousers, and even leather pants (a true rarity in the petite world!).

Shop Reformation

Reformation Petites Nelle Knit Dress, $, available at Reformation

Lane Bryant


The popular plus-size clothing brand features an extensive and inclusive range of clothes, including intimates and activewear. The inclusive size range also includes its Petite Shop for under 5'3" proportions. Here, you'll find sleeve lengths that are 1.5 inches shorter and pant inseams that are 3 inches shorter.

Shop Lane Bryant

Lane Bryant Petite Signature Fit High-Rise Ultra Wide Leg Jean, $, available at Lane Bryant

Uniqlo


Hailing from Japan (where the average woman's height is roughly 5'2"), the leg length of Uniqlo's trousers runs particularly short. But Uniqlo also offers other styles in cropped silhouettes, like this jacket, that are perfect for shorter statures.

Shop Uniqlo

Uniqlo Jersey Relaxed Jacket, $, available at Uniqlo

Cupshe


Inclusive and affordable swimwear brand Cupshe has an extensive range of swimsuits, coverups, and resortwear in many styles and sizes. Cupshe's petite swimsuits are designed to "elongate your legs and make you look taller," per the brand, and run across the bikini, tankini, and one-piece styles.

Shop Cupshe

Cupshe Midnight Elegance Tummy Control One-Piece, $, available at cupshe

Abercrombie & Fitch


Another R29-reader favorite brand, Abercrombie & Fitch, has a large petite section (mostly encompassing short jean lengths, but also including dresses, skirts, and jumpsuits). These pieces, which are perfect for everyday wear and special occasions, are great for shoppers who are 5'3" and below.

Shop Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch Petite Plunge Cutout Jumpsuit, $, available at Abercrombie & Fitch

Levi’s


Levi's has always created its classic jeans styles in petite sizing, where you can select some bestsellers in leg lengths that are as short as a 26-inch inseam. We'll be honest, there aren't many styles or colorways that currently have 26-inch options, but if you look hard enough and get lucky enough, you may find your perfect pair of jeans.

Shop Levi’s

Levi's 26" Inseam Wedgie Straight Fit Jeans, $, available at Levi's

J.Crew


If you're in your office siren era and looking for work staples, look no further than J.Crew's petite matching sets. Women from 5' 0" to 5' 4" can enjoy the brand's classic blazers and trousers.

Shop J.Crew

J.Crew Petite Stretch Linen Helena Blazer, $, available at J.Crew

J.Crew Petite Stretch Linen Carolina Pant, $, available at J.Crew

Ann Taylor


Ann Taylor lets you know exactly what goes into its efforts to make its petite collection a perfect fit. From tailoring hemlines and scaling down prints to busting the myth that cinched wais lines and cropped pants aren't compatible with petite frames, no stone is left unturned.

Shop Ann Taylor

Ann Taylor Petite Relaxed Raglan Trench Coat, $, available at Ann Taylor

Good American


You know and love Khloe Kardashian's clothing brand for its curve-hugging and plus-size jeans, but did you know it offers size-inclusive options in "Good Petite" styles, too? From skinny and straight cuts to baggy and bootcut ones, you're bound to find a pair of petite jeans here.

Shop Good American

Good American Good Petite Bootcut Jeans, $, available at Good American

Faithfull The Brand


This brand is best known for creating resortwear that lasts in your wardrobe for years. We love the dresses and think the mini dress hemlines are great for petite people.

Shop Faithfull The Brand

Faithfull the Brand Penne Mini Dress, $, available at Faithfull the Brand

Gap


For women 5'4" and under, Gap offers clothing that's "perfectly proportioned and ready to wear" in its Petite Shop, meaning you can score petite boyfriend jeans, crewneck tees, and tunic sweaters that you'll be able to wear for years (and not have to tailor).

Shop Gap

Gap Petite Linen Boyfriend Shirt, $, available at Gap

SIR.


Another brand that gets the hemlines on its mini dresses just right for petites is Australian label SIR. While they may be ultra-mini on tall people, the mini dresses and skirts hit at a comfortable mid-thigh on shorter people.

Shop SIR.

Sir Leonardo Pleated Mini Dress, $, available at Sir
Gap

If you've got short legs, short arms, a short torso (or all three!), finding basics that really, truly fit can be challenging. For women 5'4" and under, Gap offers clothing with "perfectly proportioned sleeves, knees, and hems," meaning you can score boyfriend jeans, crewneck tees, and tunic sweaters that you'll be able to wear for years (and not have to tailor).

Gap The Archive Re-issue Crop Denim Jacket, $79.95, available at Gap.
ASOS

If ASOS' petite section isn't already on your radar, it needs to be. From standard petite sizes, to petite maternity, to petite plus, every and all petite women are covered. The e-tailer also has a cool curation of petite sizes from brands like Fila, River Island, Glamorous, its in-house wedding collection, and more.

New Look Petite Cropped Jacket, $53, available at ASOS.
J.Crew

Petite-specific sizing is a game-changer, especially at a retailer as huge as J.Crew. Now ladies from 5' 0" to 5' 4" can enjoy the brand's classic styles, too.

J.Crew Petite Pleated Ruggle Top, $88, available at J.Crew.
Petite Studio

We love Petite Studio so much, we've even given it its own brand spotlight. The label is a dream for every fashion-minded female on the smaller side. For pieces like minimalist jackets and mini skirts with an inseam specifically tailored for shorter legs, petite gals will want to bookmark this site.

Petite Studio Irving Suede Jacket, $179, available at Petite Studio.
Adela Mei

Adela Mei describes itself as a "carefully curated online boutique dedicated to contemporary petite fashion" and it delivers just that. Search through selection for the best fitting pieces from your favorite designers.

C/MEO Collective Fall Back Skirt, $150 $104.50, available at Adela Mei.
Topshop

If you absolutely love pants and hate the cost of heading to the tailor after every other shopping trip, Topshop is your new BFF. Its range of petite offerings is amazing, but its assortment of pants for women under 5' 3" is the true winner here.

Topshop Petite Crop Wide Leg Trousers, $80, available at Topshop.
Paige

One of the most common gripes for shorter women is finding denim that fits. Paige offers just about every style in petite sizes for those 5' 4" and under.

Paige Jacqueline Straight, $239, available at Paige.
Ann Taylor

Ann Taylor let's you know exactly what goes into their efforts to make their petite collection a perfect fit. From tailoring the sleeves, shoulder, and necklines, to ensuring that their pants flatter any leg length, no stone is left unturned.

Ann Taylor Petite Culotte Jumpsuit, $139, available at Ann Taylor.
Anthropologie

Stop by Anthropologie's curate boutique for petite clothes, where you'll find petite-specific sizes from its in-house line, as well as pieces from outside brands that make a solid fit for small frames.

Floreat Embroidered Luna Slip Dress, $168, available at Anthropologie.
Eloquii

Eloquii is a popular stop for plus-sizes, but did you know it offers petite plus-sizes, too?

Eloquii Studio Off the Shoulder Chambray Dress, $110.90, available at Eloquii.
Missguided

Missguided's motto is that "good things come in small packages," and when it comes to its petite designs, we have to agree. For the fashion crowd 5' 3" and under, its petite collection is a trend haven with bold, lace-up skirts, ankle-length parkas, and cut-out mini dresses.

Missguided Petite Exclusive Khaki Lace Up Mini Skirt, $45, available at Missguided.
Bomb Petite

Bomb Petite boasts exclusive designs from emerging and independent designers with a focus on women 5' 4" and under. The site isn't just a destination for edgy pieces to add to your closet, but it's a great editorial resource for styling tips and tricks too.

Petriiski Petite Liza Cherry Blossom Crop Top, $98.60, available at Bomb Petite; Petriiski Petite Liza Cherry Blossom Skirt, $113.10, available at Bomb Petite.
Eileen Fisher

For comfy and classic, look no further. Eileen Fisher offers petite sizes in just about all of its designs. Head over to their petite tab to shop.

Eileen Fisher Straight Cropped Pant, $218 $119, available at Eileen Fisher.
Express

Express is one of the latest fast-fashion shops to expand to a petite line. The featured pieces are sized for those 5' 4" and under and are available through its online shop only.

Express Petite Striped Off The Shoulder Cotton Blend Shift Dress, $69.90, available at Express.

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