Is a Denim Jacket Really a “Must Have”?

Carrots Excluded.

I tend to lurk on lots of fashion and wardrobe blogs. I literally study both trend influencers and wardrobe minimalists. I am trying to find the definitive perfect wardrobe, as if that’s possible. I’m trying to follow the rules. Buy only what I need. Buy the best quality I can afford. Get sustainably and ethically produced items from manufacturers that support gender and social equality. I try to find items produced that minimize waste, water and have neutral carbon footprints. Less shopping at all those entities that offer coupons, discounts and special points.

I also try to accomplish this, while being Petite.

Clearly all of the big designers ignore “Petites” as if we were a woodland clan of barefoot hobbits, unless you are a Hollywood celeb getting ready for the Red Carpet. I have accepted that I will not be wearing any off the rack Chanel, Dolce or Armani. However, what about the quintessential wardrobe item that everyone says we need?

The Denim Jacket.

No matter whose site I google, they all have it listed as a “Must Have”.

You can have a vintage or trendy version, classic denim, leather or leopard, fitted or BF style, distressed or ultra-modern. It can be loosely thrown over a camisole and skinny jeans, shorts or a casual day dress. One can even think outside the box, and wear it over an Armani or TJ MAXX gown. Dress it up. Dress it down. Just don’t wear it acid washed or bedazzled with gym shoes and ankle pants…ever! Only Heidi Klum or Kate Moss can do that.

I am not only petite, but I am also an inverted triangle body shape. My shoulders are wider, just like a mini football player. They are wider than my narrow hips. I am known as “The Carrot” body type. Bugs Bunny, a rabbit himself, would be proud!

About carrots, they don’t do well when wearing tops that add visual volume like puffed sleeves, epaulettes and shoulder ruffles. It throws our body balance off. They make us look extra top heavy, like super breasts on tiny ladies. If we put on high stilettos, most carrots will virtually topple over. Having no waist definition in your outfit, you run the risk of looking like a tennis ball with skinny little chicken legs. Personally, not the sexy look I was hoping for.

Most denim jackets have the classic breast pocket with flaps, the boxy cut, a collar that won’t stay open and extra bulky sleeves. Definitely not a plus for most petites, never mind the carrot version. I have tried though. Lots. I even tried a black, waxed, slender cut, version with narrow cut armholes and sleeves. Better proportions. I literally could not drive. I just could not get my arms to reach up and forward enough. I even considered a feminine fitted princess style version on a celeb’s online store. It costs as much as a golf cart. Again, too much volume.

Finally, I have decided, not all “Must Haves” are must haves for all. Not all body shapes are raised to goddess status with a classic denim jacket. The Petite Inverted Triangle/Carrot is one of them. Me, I plan to pass on this item in my perfect wardrobe. Next….Leather Biker Jacket?