Q: I am a 1.72m-tall female who is about to enter the working world. I prefer to tuck in my shirt as I think this looks smarter but shirts from most stores here are too short for me. Can you recommend some places that carry longer shirts for women?

A: Speaking as someone shorter than the average Asian female: You lucky amazon, you.

Anyway, you simply have to look for brands known for stocking larger sizes.

European and American brands meant for more mature women are usually better bets - a trendier British brand such as Topshop, for instance, typically likes its button-down shirts tighter and shorter.

Try Zara, where the shirts are priced from $19.90 to $75 and come in both sensible and funky variations. Another option is British India, which is pricier - a shirt usually hovers at around the $200 mark - but comes with interesting bohemian details such as flounces and sheer fabrics that could add more style to your work wardrobe.

Another tip: If you are looking to draw attention away from your long torso, stay away from vertical stripes and stick with plain colours. By the way, dresses can look smart and office-appropriate too, and empire waists are particularly flattering for those with long torsos.

Good luck with the new job.

This article was first published in Urban, The Straits Times.