My experience is that everything is getting bigger. Way bigger.
The only things that run consistently small are extremely expensive designer brands or things made in Europe that really are more in line with what sizes "used" to be. By that, I mean, my five foot tall, 100 pound mom consistently wore a size 4 or 6. And that's what I wear if I try something on in Italy. I come home and wear a size 0. Really???
Shooting Star, I agree. Most petite styles look "old" and I definitely don't want to shop in the junior department. I buy most of my clothes at Banana Republic, the Gap, and a little at J Crew. Mostly classic stuff, with a nod to style. I used to buy tons at the Loft, as it is the only store near my house, but the clothes seem poorly made and they keep getting bigger and trashy looking at the same time!