I'm a 5ft 3in woman, curvy with big hips. I first ordered a size 10-14 mainly because most tights are quite long. For my size 10-14 they fit like big or extra large in the waist. I have a 27 inch waist and they were too loose to stay in place while dancing. maybe 5ft or less, getting the dam high enough for me was almost impossible so I went back. The petites for women fit like very petite women because they are a bit shorter. This works for me, but if someone is 5ft 5in or taller and has a waist, I'd probably say one size up. I like them as dance tights, they are tight and don't move. I also like that they fit comfortably despite my big hips and curves.