How to look tall - Slideshow

Is 'short' the problem?

Let's face it - appearance does matter in most situations in life.

A tall frame is traditionally associated with an intelligent, outgoing and charming personality. Short people are (wrongly) believed to be bad tempered, dominant and unhealthy. But is it possible to 'grow tall' after a certain age?

Can you 'grow' taller?

With the end of the teen years, our body is usually done with vertical growing.

Genes and diet dictate how tall we grow. Therefore, a healthy diet is essential during the growing years for bone and muscle development. If you're still in the growing stage and think you're not progressing well enough height-wise, speak to a GP. For those who've crossed their teens, it's still possible to 'look' tall and improve your appearance with the right dressing.

Growth Hormone

Several claims are made in the market about synthesized growth hormones that will raise your height-bar.

Be wary of these claims as many may prove baseless. Besides, growth hormones are for the overall growth of the body, and not height alone. So consult a doctor before you decide to take growth hormone supplements.

Tips to look tall: Dressing

Monochromatic clothing (single-coloured outfits) makes you appear tall as the colour continues in an unbroken line.

It need not be boring though. Add some contrast with accessories - like a bright scarf. Avoid clothing that is either too loose or too tight. Wear clothes that fit well at the torso. Keep your jacket short. Long overcoats can 'cut your legs short'. Sleeveless tops work well too.

Tips to look tall: Dressing

Stiff and bulky fabrics won’t work - try a lighter weight variety.

Vertical detailing is a smart option - especially for work clothes, pinstriped pants are just the thing. Dark, neutral colours can work magic on a short frame. The darker the colour, the better it'll look. Wear denims that fit you right - pencil jeans look good on a thin people but for those on the plump side, it will only add to a generous back and thighs. Short skirts and skirts with more length than width can do a good job too.

Tips to look tall: Accessorize

Unbutton your jacket or cardigan to enhance the vertical effect.

Let one end of your scarf hang down. For jewellery - use long chains over chokers; loopy, dangle earrings over studs. Big belts look great, but not on a short frame - go for something more discrete yet casual. Avoid oversized glasses.

Tips to look tall: Dressing (Men)

Short and heavy men should avoid double-breasted coats, belt below paunches and must wear their trousers at the natural waistline.

Low-rise pants will make you look short. Tip of the tie must reach the waistband. Tuck in shirts - they look neater too. Try V-necks instead of round or turtle necks to add to the frame. Spiky hairstyles work well - but make sure you can carry it off.

Tips to look tall: Posture

A good posture will really help you 'walk tall',

Slouching, on the other hand, makes you appear short, fat and grumpy. Exercise regularly to get your posture right. Straighten your back out with simple exercises and practice walking tall with eyes straight ahead.

Tips to look tall: Hair

Upswept hairstyles can add inches to your height.

Add volume to the crown with a layered style Shorter hair gives an illusion of height - in fact, any style that reveals your neck is quite good. Some gentle backcombing, if not a revamped hairstyle, might do the trick too.

Tips to look tall: Shoes

Don't shy away from heels - it can really help elongate your frame.

If stilettos are difficult to manage (or give you back problems), block heels can work just as well. Tennis shoes and boots - yes. Flip-flops and sandals - no. Men can consider shoe lifts - sneaky shoes with built-in height enhancers!

Walk Tall

Sport a 'tall' attitude - your confidence can take you places.

Dressing is always about getting the balance right - take advice from a stylist when in doubt. If you're on the heavy side, losing weight is a good idea. Practise stretching exercises to iron out your frame. Hang around with shorter people - you'll genuinely be tall then!