Is Louise Thompson x Nobody’s Child actually petite-friendly? I tried on the full collection

I’ve been an avid wearer of Nobody’s Child for a few years now. I’ve seen the brand evolve and go from strength to strength, particularly with its collaborations. As someone who is 5’1” and a size 16-18, I know the struggles of trying to find clothing that fits my body shape. Petite ranges often fall into the same trap of just shortening leg lengths and sleeves, while not leaving much room for getting the actual fit right. They can also feel dated and safe, limited to tailoring and uninteresting work-wear pieces – not offering much else for the modern customer. This is Louise Thompson’s second edit for Nobody’s Child after the success of the spring/summer season. While you may know her from her time on Made In Chelsea, Louise Thompson is a mother, podcaster, writer and campaigner for women’s health. As a woman who understands what it’s like to be spinning many plates, she wanted to create a collection for petite frames that is comfortable and still put-together, even on days when things may not be going to plan. This particular collection offers a gorgeous mix of soft separates, cosy knits, comfortable co-ords, relaxed tailoring and floor-length occasionwear. The brand increased its petite collection due to overwhelming demand, especially in dresses. This collection ranges from a size UK 4 to UK 20. After trying the entire collection on, I can confirm there truly is a style for everyone in this edit.Nicole Ocran/The Standard When I spoke to Louise ahead of the launch, she told me that getting dressed was something she would often struggle with because of her size. “I just wanted to feel like I looked confident and comfortable in clothes that fit well. I’ve always had to spend money getting sleeves and leg lengths taken up, for example, so getting a good ratio between waist, hip and leg length was really important for the petite range across all of the sizes,” she said. “It’s for the in-between, which is where I think a lot of us live.”How I tested The Nobody’s Child x Louise Thompson edit drops today (9 September), but I was lucky enough to be able to get a little preview to try on and style at home in front of my mirror. We’re still in the midst of a heatwave, but as the temperature is set to drop in the next month, I'm looking forward to when it gets cooler to hit the streets properly, especially in these wool-blend pieces and knits.Nobody’s Child x Louise Thompson black satin Marta midi dress Nicole Ocran/The Standard★★★★★What we love: A sophisticated LBD with distinctive detailingTake note: All eyes will be on you in this dress!First up is the black satin Marta midi dress, which I have to say is a major standout. This is one of those pieces I recommend trying on in person because it looks so unassuming on the hanger. This LBD is perfect for a special occasion, and as we know, the holiday season is just round the corner. You could pair this with a strappy sandal or a statement court shoe, as I did here – plus a clutch for all of your essentials.This black midi dress is body-skimming in the best way possible. The handkerchief hem with a lace trim makes it just that little bit more elevated. The high cowl neck fastens at the back of the neck, creating a slight halter shape, which is a really beautiful cut on the shoulders.Despite being an occasionwear piece, you could easily dress this down as well: just throw on an oversized knit to contrast the delicate lace, and add a pair of trainers for an added casual element. Nobody’s Child x Louise Thompson grey wool zip-through cardigan and Juno wide leg trousers Nicole Ocran/The Standard★★★★★ What we love: Versatile, easy-to-wear piecesTake note: Cropped trouser lovers, look awayThis is such an easy, throw-on look for autumn/winter that will make you feel put together while feeling super comfortable. The relaxed tailoring on the Juno wide trousers (£99, Nobodyschild.com) is great for the office, and is an important reminder that petite frames can absolutely handle a wide-leg shape. I paired it with the grey wool zip-through cardigan, which is going to be such a staple for the colder months. This piece is so versatile because of the double-zip feature, you could wear it open as a throw on cardigan, zipped down fully, or zipped up half-way as I’ve done here leaving a bit of skin exposed and creating a bit of shape. This is a cardigan that will get lots of mileage in your wardrobe season on season. Nobody’s Child x Louise Thompson camel swing jacketNicole Ocran/The Standard ★★★★☆What we love: The tie hooded detail adds a playful twist on a classic Take note: The shorter trench style may not be for youWhat this collection has done so well is really consider the details. This camel swing jacket is super sweet, hitting just below the knee and has a tie hood, which is perfect for rainy days. The search for a good trench can be arduous, especially if you’re petite, and this shape is ideal for smaller frames. The checked lining on the tie hood matches the checked lining inside the trench, and if you fold up the sleeves of the jacket, then it will also add a nice pop of red to your look. Louise says a pop of red for autumn is a trend she’s looking forward to styling this season: “I always say that reds are neutral. Not every colour can go with everything, but if you have a little pop of red, it just seems to work.” As the weather changes, this is a great throw-on jacket for weekend errands or a misty, early morning dog walk.Nobody’s Child x Louise Thompson grey wool blend coatNicole Ocran/The Standard ★★★☆☆What we love: Weighty material and chic funnel neck styleTake note: Size down, as it’s oversizedOne thing you’ll be seeing a lot of in the winter months is funnel neck coats making a major statement. Ideal for cold and windy weather, this grey wool blend coat is guaranteed to keep you toasty warm while being fashion-forward. If you have long hair, I would keep your hair tucked into the funnel neck with a few loose strands to frame your face at the front: so chic. You could also belt this coat to add a little bit more definition at the waist. This is the type of coat that is essentially the whole outfit. It’s very 90s-inspired; it feels very relaxed yet powerful at the same time. I’d throw this on for an off-duty look, ideally with a knitted co-ord underneath – perfect for travel. Louise agrees, “We’ve got such brilliant coats as well because I think that if things aren't feeling super organised in the morning, it's great to just chuck this on and hide under your coat. And I do like an oversized look.”Agreed, it’s certainly oversized, so I would recommend sizing down.Nobody’s Child x Louise Thompson herringbone cinched blazer and mini skirtNicole Ocran/The Standard ★★★★☆What we love: A matching skirt suit that feels effortless Take note: Blazer runs smallI’m a sucker for a British heritage style look, with classic fabrics like herringbone, tweed, tartan check, which run through this collection. “I also have some roots in Scotland, so I really wanted to bring in very loose, boyish, androgynous kilts to the collection. And it’s also back-to-school time, and there’s something quite charming about that uniform look,” Louise told me. “I think they design a school uniform in a certain way because it's very comfortable and very wearable. For me, it's quite nice to revert to that because it's indicative of routine,” Louise said. This skirt suit (£79, Nobodyschild.com) in particular gives me Blair Waldorf vibes in the best possible way. Paired with a loafer or riding boots, you could really lean into the classic countryside look. Or you could wear the blazer open with a band tee to mix it up. The blazer is cinched in a bit at the waist, so depending on your body type, you may need to size up if you want to wear it buttoned up.Nobody’s Child x Louise Thompson heritage check wool-blend pinafore Nicole Ocran/The Standard★★★★☆What we love: An ideal transitional garment, great for layeringThe countryside chic trend is featured throughout this collection, and this heritage check wool-blend pinafore also nods to uniform dressing. This is a really sweet dress; I love that you can layer it over a crisp white shirt or a rollneck in the winter, with a knee-high boot serving you well into the colder months. The pockets at the front of the dress are functional, of course, but also offer a bit of detail. Very versatile and easy to style throughout autumn and winter.Is the Nobody’s Child x Louise Thompson collection worth the hype?In short, yes! This is a really cohesive collection with a bit of something for everyone. You’ll find office-appropriate pieces, casual clothing for everyday wear, coats and jackets, as well as beautiful occasionwear dresses. The only problem I can foresee is not adding everything to cart. Why trust me?Nicole is a writer and content creator who has been sharing her personal style online for over a decade. She has been published in the Metro, The Independent, Refinery29, Stylist, Harper’s Bazaar and Cosmopolitan covering fashion, beauty as well as race and identity. She is inspired by colour blocking, print clashing, and classic pieces with a twist and gets her hits of dopamine by getting dressed in the morning.