You Spoke, We Designed: Introducing Our Petite Collection

You Spoke, We Designed.

Every fortnight in our styling studio, I meet the women who bring our pieces to life. We talk, we laugh—and most importantly, we try things on. It’s in these intimate styling sessions that I started noticing a recurring theme: petite women were struggling to find clothing that truly fit their frame.

Again and again, I’d meet women who loved our designs but were frustrated by sleeves that were too long, hems that overwhelmed their height, or silhouettes that didn’t sit quite right. They weren’t asking for trends—they were asking for timeless, elegant pieces that made them feel confident, polished, and seen.

That’s where the idea for this collection was born. Our New Petite Collection has been thoughtfully designed for women 5'4" (164cm) and under. With refined proportions, adjusted lengths, and our signature premium fabrics, this exclusive edit is now available. And it’s all thanks to you.

Image 1: Clementine Linen Viscose Shirt Dress in Azalea Fields
Image 2: Kinlsey Crinkle Cotton Silk Lace Blouse in Milk & PETITE Cordelia Cotton Slub Skirt in Azalea Fields
Image 3: Carmen Viscose Linen Maxi Dress in Azalea Fields

Designing With You, Not Just For You

Before diving into design, we opened up the conversation through detailed surveys and interviews with our community. We wanted to better understand not just what styles you loved, but how they made you feel.

The response was powerful: 84% of you told us that poor fit is the biggest challenge you face when shopping for petite clothing. 91% said you would purchase more if stylish, well-fitting petite options were available. And 68% of you identified a lack of tailored, elegant options as the biggest gap in the market.

Image 1: Kinlsey Crinkle Cotton Silk Lace Blouse in Milk & Coraline Chevron Stripe Ponte Pant in Bluestone Stripe
Image 2: Sutton Wool Blend Double Breasted Coat in Oat
Image 3: Oaklyn Chevron Stripe Ponte Blazer in Bluestone Stripe

But the numbers only tell part of the story. It was your words that really moved us:
“I’m tired of having to alter everything. I just want to put something on and have it feel like it was made for me.”
“I love structured pieces, but the shoulders are always off. It makes me feel like I’m dressing up in someone else’s clothes.”
“Petite doesn’t mean childish. I want timeless style that suits my frame but still feels grown-up and refined.”

You told us that fit and proportion are everything—and that finding elevated fashion in petite sizing can be a real challenge. Your feedback didn’t just influence our approach—it defined it.

Image 1: Sienna Cotton Silk Midi Dress in Dahlia Fields
Image 2: Knox Cotton Silk Shirt in Dahlia Fields & Scarlett Faux Suede Pant in Black
Image 3: Harper Viscose Dobby Skirt in Dahlia Fields

What Petite Really Means to Us
“Even a few centimetres in the sleeve length makes a world of difference. When something fits properly, I feel more confident and polished.”

The word “petite” is often misunderstood. It’s not just about height—it’s about proportion. A woman who wears a size 8 and stands 5'2" shouldn’t have to settle for clothes that are simply "shrunk down" versions of standard sizes. We’ve re-engineered key designs to honour the nuances of the petite frame. That means adjusted lengths, refined shoulder fits, repositioned darts, and a silhouette that feels made just for you—because it is.

Image 1: Marielle Linen Viscose Dress in Country Tapestry
Image 2: Blaire Leather Herringbone Stitch Jacket in Wheat
Image 3: Astrid Cotton Silk Shirt in Country Tapestry & Willow Viscose Dobby Pant in Country Tapestry

What Sets OnceWas Apart
“OnceWas just gets it. I’ve never felt more seen by a brand.”

Many brands either don’t cater to petite sizing at all, or they limit their range to a narrow size bracket. At OnceWas, we’re proud to offer size 0 (AU6) - 5 (AU16) for our petite fits.

We design with real women in mind. Whether you're tall or petite, curvy or straight, your clothes should complement your shape—not compromise it. This thoughtful approach to fit, style, and wearability is what makes us different. We don’t just chase trends—we create beautiful, enduring pieces that honour individuality.

Image 1 & 3: Sylvan Leather Curved Panel Jogger in Black
Image 2: Blaire Leather Herringbone Stitch Jacket in Black
Image 4: Mabel Leather Skirt in Moss
Image 5: Nova Leather Curved Hem Jacket in Moss
Image 6: Sylvan Leather Jogger in Moss

The 22 Styles You Loved—Now Perfectly Petite
“I can’t wait to finally wear something I don’t have to hem or adjust. It feels like this was made for me—because it was.”

Our Autumn '25 collection was built around timeless design, soft structure, and effortless sophistication. The 22 styles we’ve re-released are some of our most-loved garments—from sharply tailored jackets to flowing dresses and elevated staples.

Each piece in this petite capsule has been meticulously refit to bring you that same signature OnceWas style—just tailored to you. Thank you to everyone who took part in our survey, shared your thoughts, and inspired this collection. This isn’t just a re-release. It’s a reflection of you.

Belinda Abbott
Director & Head Designer, OnceWas

#OnceWas