One of the most satisfying things when cleaning out my closet was doing a hanger overhaul. Investing in properly fitting hangers is such a simple update that can make a big difference in caring for your garments (and is so much more pleasing on the eye than a bunch of mismatched poorly fitting ones!).
For those with a petite frame, standard clothing hangers are often too wide and can damage your clothes over time by either stretching out the shoulders or leaving indentations on the sleeves. Most kids hangers are also too narrow to support the structure of a blazer or coat. I’ve found that “junior” hangers that span 14″ across are the perfect size for my clothes, and you can also get “petite” hangers that span 14.5 to 15.5 inches!
Here are the three styles of petite-friendly hangers I have in my closet…
1. Wooden Hangers
My favorite for blazers, jackets, and coats, since the thicker wooden frame provides support for the structured shoulders of these garments. I also have some from the brand Only Hangers, but these are a more affordable alternative and have held up well for me!
Shop the hangers →
2. Velvet Slim Hangers
These are great for compact spaces because they’re very slim profile and lightweight, so can pack a lot into a small closet. I use these for my blouses, dresses, and also hang pants over the lower bar. I was worried (esp. given the low price) that these would be too flimsy, but I’ve used mine for two years now with no issues.
Note: There are two sizes, and mine are the 14″ wide. For those who want similar slim hangers that are slightly wider, these have a 14.5″ shoulder.
Shop the hangers →
Hi Jean, where did you get your clothing rack? Thanks!
It was actually a DIY project that Nick made! I’ve lost track of the exact tutorial he followed but there are several similar ones on Pinterest
maybe a petite sizing question (?) – i’m 5’2” and often find shirts are tight under my underarms. does this mean that the sleeve hole is higher in the shirt, as in for a taller person?
That’s a good question! Trying petite shirts might help, but I also wonder if it’s just a matter of trying a different cut of top?
Hi Jean! I have to agree on that when I did a closet declutter/organizer weekend some years ago getting matching hangars was soooo satisfying. Since we’ve now grown as a family, I found the mini velvet kid hangars to be a lifesaver for keeping my daughter’s closet organized. I love those things! They’re pretty sturdy like you said, even though I’m not always the most gentle with her clothes. Great suggestions. Thank you!
Thanks so much for the note, Jewel! They are so great for kids closets too!
Oh my gosh! Thank you for these tips! I had zero clue about sizes for hangers and I would get these hanger “dents” in my cardigans which would look really awkward and frumpy. Always gold nuggets of intel from your informative posts. Much appreciated from a fellow petite mama 🙂
So glad you enjoyed the post, Judy! It’s such a simple change to make, but not one that is immediately obvious
Thank you so much Jean for all of your recommendations! I am extra petite, just under 5 feet, and I find it miraculous how I have loved all of your clothing (the Everlane jeans fit perfectly!), home, and kids recommendations! I also have a dairy free little one and your recipes and suggestions have been so so helpful!
Thank you for your note, Ali! I’m so glad my recommendations have been a good fit for you! xx
Thank you so much for this post!! The shoulders on so many of my garments have gotten misshapen (most distressingly when it happened to my leather jacket) but I never once thought to look for petite-friendly hangers. Going to buy these immediately.
My pleasure, Sheryl! xx