I remember reading somewhere that petite sizes really have more to do with overall height rather than size. I think it is 5'3" is the tallest that was recommended. I'm 5'6" and I've also found cute clothes in the past that were only available in petite and they never fit right. Like the other poster mentioned about "torso" length - that was the problem I had. Petite tops/dresses are too short through the torso for me.