I live in CA, but am traveling to GA and AL soon. I am "diagnosed" as a B body type, but I'm having a terrible problem trying to find something that looks good and doesn't make me look dumpy. I have old thighs, and yucky knees, so shorts on me aren't very complimentary. I'm 5' and weigh 175 lbs. Should I just stick with slacks? My arms aren't so good either. I really need advice!!!

I think dresses and sandals would look good, and be comfortable. Also slacks, as you said. And maybe capris. If you want to cover up your arms, maybe lightweight cotton jackets, or blouses worn as jackets?

MSP has a separate list of what to look for if you are petite; I am one too. So be sure to check that out. In addition, I like this link. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-489577/Trinny-Susannah-clothes-suit-12-womens-body-types.html I also like this site a lot. This gal calls an apple an O type. http://www.insideoutstyleblog.com/2010/06/real-life-body-shapes-o.html If these don't help or are not quite what you are looking for open a web browser and and type in "outfits apple shaped petite" and click on images. You could also do the same kind of search on Pinterest. Hunt around for awhile, look at pictures and make a potential shopping list or print out some pictures then go shopping. I love to shop the second hand stores to try new styles and looks. I hem lots myself but visit a tailor often. Hope this helps. ~Gwen

Good websites Gwen. Natasha, light cotton jackets are a great idea. Bernil, you describe yourself as an apple and a B which doesn't seem right. If you are finding that MSP styles don't work for you perhaps you are actually a different category. You can change that setting if needed. But that doesn't help you now, I would go with capris or skirts that come to just below the knee, and I mean to the knee or just beyond. If you go any longer you will likely look shorter. On the top half the idea is fitted but not clingy which can be a challenge but when you find it you will know it instantly. If you wear anything boxy or too flowy it is going to add pounds which none of us want. I noticed when I was shopping lots of "bat wing" kind of sleeves, sorry can't think of the proper name. They would end a the elbow. They don't suit me but might be worth a try if you are uncomfortable showing your arms. It is going to be hot and probably humid so you don't want to wear too much. Good Luck.

Yes, good websites. On one there is a picture of a tunic with trousers. That might be suitable, if in suitable fabric for the hot,humid climate. Mini-dresses are almost the same as tunics, so could be worn with trousers.

Thank you all for your help! I've tried googling "apple shaped petites" but haven't had any luck with those. I'll try the websites suggested, and let you know how everything works out. CatherineK, I think I may have to look into this. I wasn't sure if I could be a petite and an "elegant" which would be my only alternative. I'll check it out when I get back from my trip!!