Height Lab | Rachel Shaw, 5’3”


The magic of social media. We discovered Rachel, 5’3”, on Instagram thanks to tagged images from her account that provides style inspiration “for fellow shorties”. As a die-hard fan of the brand, we invited the 51-year-old Communications Director down from Lincoln to join us for an exclusive shoot that celebrates the women we design for.
 

What’s the origin story of your love affair with ME+EM?
I’ve been shopping with ME+EM for so long now that it’s hard to remember how and when I first discovered the brand. I think it was in 2007, just after the birth of my second son, when I stumbled across the website or received a mailer - immediately hooked! I remember investing in an amazing sleeveless, ruched waist jersey maxi dress that I’m still wearing.


What is it about ME+EM that you love so much?
It’s that perfect balance of classic, on trend and quality. I’m in my 50s and want to look ‘current’ without being anywhere near mutton! I also want to spend money on pieces that I’ll wear for many years. ME+EM ticks all those boxes and also offers some surprises, things I wouldn’t normally consider, like the Leather Midi Skirt and the Chunky Chelsea Boot. I also love the way different shapes and sizes are considered - like when full-length trousers have a zip at the hem it means that I can wear them over a platform trainer without having to have them taken up.

You don’t have to rule out maxi dresses because you’re petite. At just 5’3”, the Flower Block Print Maxi Dress + Belt hits Rachel at just the right point.

Are there any particular signature styles that you always go for?
I bought all three of the summer maxi tea dresses! The dress styles are a winner for me and, as I advise a lot of fellow petite women via instagram, I never have to have them shortened. I also love the knit co-ords, layering tops and of course the trousers. I've invested in a few pairs for work, especially the cropped style with the side stripes which are ideal for someone on the shorter side.


Finally, which was your favourite look from the shoot?
I loved the leather skirt with the blouse. I wasn’t convinced that the skirt would work on someone my height but it was super-flattering. That A-line shape is really streamlining and the length was actually perfect. The blue knit co-ord with the Chelsea boots also deserves a mention - such a cool look for autumn/winter and the boots are really comfy, as well as giving me an inch or two of flattering height!