This may be a weird suggestion, but I have seen some tennis tops recently that I liked the v-neck and cap sleeves on. I think they run a little shorter in the torso. Just a thought...

I hear you! What's with the high crew necks on almost all gear tees? I have one from Lulu that I like, but that's it. And I'm constantly checking them out. Have you tried Icebreaker or brands like that? Merino wool is fantastic for hiking. Wicks, breathes, doesn't retain odour... I do find it a bit warm when it's stinking hot out, but is great for most temps that I'd be interested in hiking in.

Backpacks... hard to avoid whatever unflattering things they do. I do think a shorter skort might help proportions. I like to hike in hiking shorts, with pockets on the legs, so I can have quick access to things like a p&s camera, snack, that sort of thing and I find the hip belt of a pack often restricts access to pockets. Now they do NO favours!

Looks like a beautiful walk! I agree with everything that has been said here! I don't understand how people can wear their workout clothes as casual everyday wear because it looks so bad on me. And why are there no petites? Sorry I'm not any help but I totally understand where you are coming from.

I see nothing wrong with the photo. It's hard to look good while in the midst of physical exertio.
I'm into joggers at the moment....bought 3 pairs the other day. I do have running leggings but sometimes don't like the tight fit.
I'm of average height but have a big bust and wide back and any surplus weight is on my waist. I've started wearing slightly big shirts and front tucking ...even with my joggers.

Re: tailoring.......That's why I like Lululemon. They will shorten your tops, etc. for free. Other tricks for me are v-necks and column of colour / low contrast top and bottom.

As you know, I can commiserate.

What about sleeveless racerback running tops? They are quite loose-fitting, and usually a bit more flattering on me. It's all the extra boxy fabric around the upper arms that's unhelpful. High crew necks aren't great either.

Rambling Ann makes a good point about the backpack. The shoulder straps makes everyone's bust look terrible. You know what's really funny? When there's a chest strap too -- one that clasps above the boobs -- so that it kind of pushes them downward and inward. It's like the opposite of a "lift and separate" bra.

Devil's club. Interesting name. Thx, Una!

Do I remember correctly that Alaska has rain forest somewhere? I'm going to go google that...

Did not know that about Lululemon. Hmm.

Can't speak to quality, but JC Penneys offers a whole slew of petite workout gear

http://m.jcpenney.com/women/pe.....t100300015

I looked through my photos and see that I have the same problem. I carry a fitted vest in my pack and am thinking that maybe it would be easy to slip on for photos and look better than my usual hiking shirt.

Ugh, I hate gear! It's one reason I don't understand people who say they wear gear all the time. I just don't find it flattering or even that comfortable. I have no good solutions for you. I wear mine to work out in and then immediately change. Great pictures of the scenery!