The 19 Best Jeans for Short Women of 2023, According to 12 Fashion Experts
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You have more options than you think
People / David Hattan
Shopping for the perfect pair of jeans when you're a petite gal can sometimes feel like a never-ending quest. Even in today's market, where the selection is more inclusive than ever, added length and inseam options can feel overwhelming if you don't know what to look for or where to even begin. That's why we spoke with 12 fashion experts to find the best jeans for short women from top brands like Levi's, Good American, American Eagle, Amazon Essentials, and more. Rest assured, if you have a short frame and struggle to find jeans that actually fit, these are the denim styles you'll want to stock up on.
From straight-leg to skinnies to high-waisted mom jeans, keep reading for PEOPLE's top picks, based on expert insight as well as our own research and first-hand experience.
Best Overall: Levi’s Wedgie Straight Fit Women's Jeans
Who It’s Good For
Shorter women who want straight jeans with vintage flair that elongate their legs.
Who It’s Not Good For
Reviews suggest these jeans are stiff at first, so breaking them in may take some time.
With a high rise, straight leg, and a bit of elastane to boot, these Levi's jeans are sure to become your new favorite wardrobe staple. Not only do they come in three inseam lengths, the 12 different washes allows you to find just what you're looking for. What’s more, these jeans give the appearance of longer legs, which is always a plus, says celebrity stylist Jennifer Michalski-Bray. "If you prefer straight leg denim, you simply cannot beat this pair," she tells PEOPLE. "The high waist elongates legs while the wedgie look suggests a taut derriere, perfect for women with short legs."
While these jeans are stiff at first due to the 99 percent cotton makeup, they mold to your body shape over time and will only get more comfortable. These jeans are worthy of all-year wear, thanks to the timeless cut and medium denim weight. The size ranges from 23 to 33, but this style is also available in plus sizing up to 26W, making it even more inclusive for different body types. And the best thing about Levi's jeans? They're made to last — and we can vouch for it.
Price at time of publish: $79.50
Size Range: 23-33, 14W-26W | Inseam: 26, 28, or 30 inches | Rise: High | Material: 84% cotton, 15% organically grown cotton, 1% elastane
Best Budget: Amazon Essentials Women’s High-Rise Skinny Jeans
Who It’s Good For
Anyone looking for basic high-rise skinny jeans under $50.
Who It’s Not Good For
Reviewers suggest that these jeans run small, so you may have to size up.
Calling all bargain shoppers! If you’re looking for jeans under $50, here’s an Amazon Essentials pair we think you’ll love. They are a skinny-modern style that is high-waisted, and they sit right at the ankle, so no hemming required for most heights. These jeans come in four washes and can be dressed up or down, depending on your mood. "You can wear these jeans with a plain T-shirt and your favorite sneakers for a casual-cool look," Mitri suggests. "If you want to dress up, pair them with a blazer and booties." However, these do run small, so we recommend sizing up.
Price at time of publish: $27.26
Size Range: 0-20 (short, regular, long) | Inseam: 28 inches for regular | Rise: High | Material: 79% cotton, 18% polyester, 3% elastane
Best Shaping: Levi’s 311 Shaping Skinny Women’s Jeans
Who It’s Good For
Those who are looking for a comfortable, supportive, and flattering pair of skinny jeans in a variety of washes and sizes.
Who It’s Not Good For
Anyone looking for something more relaxed or baggy.
“These Levi’s jeans are a tried-and-true go-to for my petite clients,” says personal style therapist Christina Stein. “They have a mid-rise fit, slim and shape the legs and torso, and extend to plus sizes, so there’s something for everyone.” While you can wear these jeans with anything, Stein recommends wearing them with a classic T-shirt, a shacket, and a pair of sneakers on your next brunch date. “They can also be styled into a night-out look with a crisp white tee, a leather jacket, and some heels," she adds. What's better is that this pair of Levi's comes in up to five different inseam lengths depending on the waist size — which might be the best inseam range we've seen.
Price at time of publish: $69.50
Size Range: 24-34, 14-26 plus (short, regular, and long) | Inseam: 28, 30, and 32 | Rise: Mid | Material: 60% cotton, 16% polyester, 23% EcoVero viscose, 1% elastane
Best Mom Jean: American Eagle Stretch Mom Jean
Who It’s Good For
For those looking for mom-style jeans in a classic wash and slimmer fit, you can't go wrong with this bargain buy.
Who It’s Not Good For
Although reviewers love the fit at the waist, some say the legs are a bit bigger than expected.
According to fashion stylist Breyana Wright, these American Eagle mom jeans are a great addition to every closet because they're stretchy, comfortable, and flattering on different body types. “I highly recommend these cute and versatile jeans from American Eagle,” she says. “They size up to 20 and there are short lengths available.” While these jeans are great for all your off-duty days, Wright says they don't have any distressed detailing, so they are office-friendly as well. “These aren’t torn like most mom jeans, making them perfect for casual days at work,” she adds.
Price at time of publish: $35.95
Size Range: 000-20 (x-short, short, regular, long, x-long) | Inseam: 28 inches | Rise: 11.75 inches | Material: 94% cotton, 5% recycled cotton, 1% elastane
Best '90s-Inspired: Gap ‘90s Straight Jeans with Washwell
Who It’s Good For
Anybody looking for a straight-leg, slimming jean with a '90s vibe.
Who It’s Not Good For
If you like something a bit more fitted around the legs, you may not be a fan of this relaxed fit.
With their high rise, straight leg, and medium-indigo wash, these jeans will make you feel like a ‘90s supermodel whenever you wear them. Besides looking stylish, these jeans are available in petite, tall, and regular sizes, and they stretch to fit thanks to elastane, making them comfortable to wear for hours on end. What’s more, these jeans slim around your hips and thighs, emphasizing your best assets as a result. Wright also loves these Gap jeans, which she feels are ideal for creating any '90s-inspired outfit.
“These Gap jeans are the perfect fit for a ‘90s-style look,” she tells PEOPLE. “I think the lighter wash of these jeans does the best job of recreating the nostalgia of this era, and they come in five pockets. They are also a little stretchy for comfort.”
Price at time of publish: $79.95
Size Range: 24-35 | Inseam: Regular, tall, and petite | Rise: 11 inches | Material: 83% cotton, 11% polyester, 5% recycled cotton, 1% stretch
Best Plus-Size: Abercrombie & Fitch Curve Love Ultra 90s High Rise Straight Jeans
Who It’s Good For
Plus-size shoppers looking for a pair of ultra-high, '90s-style jeans that are available in 17 washes with short and extra short inseam lengths.
Who It’s Not Good For
If you’re looking for jeans with a low or mid-rise, these may not be the right choice for you.
Think Abercrombie is the last place to find plus-size jeans? Think again! These ultra-high rise, full-leg jeans size up to 37, and the additional elastane make them stretchy, breathable, and comfortable. But it doesn't stop there — these jeans come in 17 washes and short and extra-short lengths, and the frayed details give them a vintage look. As a bonus, you can wear these jeans in any way you want, says Thomas. “These jeans can be worn with anything, but I like to pair them with some gold jewelry, white silk camis, and strappy nude sandals.”
Price at time of publish: $89
Size Range: 23-37 | Inseam: 25.5 inches | Rise: 9.14 inches | Material: 66% cotton, 21% polyester, 10.5% viscose, 2.5% elastane
Related: The Very Best Jeans for Curvy Women of 2023
Best Pull-On: Halara HalaraMagic High Waisted Crossover Pocket Washed Stretchy Knit Denim Casual Super Flare Pants
Who It’s Good For
These pull-on jeans fit two sizes in one, making them handy for those common weight fluctuations we all experience.
Who It's Not Good For
If you prefer straight-leg jeans or pairs with a traditional zip and button closure, there are better options on this list that would fit these needs.
You know the problem: You fit into one pair of jeans one day and the next you don't. If you often have this problem, you may want to consider a more versatile pair of jeans. This pair by Halara fit two sizes at once (a small size fits sizes 2 to 4, for example), which means these jeans may be the closest we can get to the pair from The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants.
Plus, petite options are available too, so getting the right length won't be an issue. A cross-over pocket and a high waist only enhance its appeal, making this a great style to wear to dressy post-work cocktail events or casual family dinners. Because these are made with elastane, they are more of a jegging material, meaning they are lightweight, stretchy, and never bulky — so you can wear them all day long without discomfort.
Price at time of publish: $54.95
Size Range: XS-XL, XS-XL petite | Inseam: Regular, petite | Rise: High | Material: 48% polyester, 42% cotton, 10% elastane
Best Wide-Leg: Gap High Rise Stride Wide-Leg Jeans with Washwell
Who It’s Good For
Anyone seeking a sophisticated wide-leg jean that is available in petite sizes with a high waist.
Who It’s Not Good For
While wide-leg jeans create a sophisticated look, if they aren't fitted, they can overwhelm a shorter silhouette.
Wide-leg jeans can elevate any outfit, but finding the proper fit can be particularly challenging for petite shoppers. This is why Snow recommends these Gap jeans, which are available in a variety of petite sizes and have a fitted top. “These Gap jeans are more fitted at the top and elongate the leg as they get wider down the leg,” she says. “The jeans are also easy to dress up or down; pair them with wardrobe staples like a trench, blouse, or crop top to dress them up or down.”
Price at time of publish: $79.95
Size Range: 24-35 regular, 24-30 petite | Inseam: 29 inches | Rise: 11 inches | Material: 54% cotton, 27% rayon, 17% polyester, 2% spandex
Best Skinny: NYDJ Pull-On Skinny Ankle Jeans in Petite
Who It’s Good For
Those who are looking to buy a pair of high-waisted jeans that are easy to put on and take off.
Who It’s Not Good For
Anyone that wants jeans available in traditional/plus sizing options and with zipper and button closure.
“One pair of pull-on-style jeans that I recommend for short women are the NYDJ Pull-On Skinny Ankle Jeans,” says stylist and fashion expert Madeline Hall. “These have a high waist with a wide waistband for a smooth silhouette and slimming technology to flatter the figure. The ankle length is ideal, and the pull-on style offers a secure fit.” While these jeans do not come in traditional jean sizes, they do come in three flattering washes that can be paired with a variety of staples. Another nice touch is the polymultieste and elastane materials — these provide extra stretch, making these just as comfortable as your go-to leggings!
Price at time of publish: $109
Size Range: PS-PL | Inseam: 25 inches | Rise: 9.75 inches | Material: 90% Cotton, 6% elastomultiester, 4% Lycra elastane
Best Jeggings: Democracy Clothing "Ab"solution Booty Lift Blue Petite Jegging
Who It’s Good For
Someone who prefers stretchy, comfortable jeggings over traditional denim jeans.
Who It’s Not Good For
Those who prefer wearing traditional denim that has more longevity and durability.
You're in luck if jeggings are more your style — these are stretchy and comfortable for a perfect fit, according to professional stylist Diamond Ariel. “This is a great jegging style for curvier ladies,” she tells PEOPLE. “If you aren’t blessed with a lot in the back, these help lift your butt — hence the name itself.” Because these jeggings look like denim, they can be worn in a variety of ways. “These are perfect for the office with a nice blazer, camisole (or T-shirt), and pointed-toe heels,” Ariel says. “You can also wear them with a button-up shirt, strappy sandals, and a nice handbag for an easy weekend look.”
Price at time of publish: $78
Size Range: 6-16 Petite | Inseam: 28 inches | Rise: 9 inches | Material: 54% cotton, 27% rayon, 17% polyester, and 2% spandex
Best Curvy: Good American Good Petite Straight Jean
Who It’s Good For
Anyone looking for straight jeans that size up to 24 plus and can be worn with a variety of pieces.
Who It’s Not Good For
Despite mostly positive reviews, some reviewers say these jeans felt more high-rise than mid-rise on a petite frame.
Because these Good American jeans size up to 24, stylist Grace Thomas recommends them for a curvier figure. “I absolutely love Good American jeans because they are so flattering on a curvier woman,” she tells PEOPLE. “These jeans have just the right amount of stretch to keep the denim’s structure after wear, while hugging your curves in all the right places.” Aside from their fit, Thomas loves the sophisticated wash of these jeans, which she believes enhances any outfit. “I'd style these with a pair of black (or nude heels), a plain white T-shirt tucked in (crewneck or v-neck), and a black blazer,” she adds.
While these jeans have many rave reviews, there were a few shoppers that pointed out that while they are advertised as mid-rise, they sit more high-rise on a petite frame. Some people also said these jeans ran a bit large, so be sure to double check the size chart to determine if you need to size up.
Price at time of publish: $99
Size Range: 00-24 Plus | Inseam: 25.5 inches | Rise: 9.14 inches | Material: 66% cotton, 21% polyester, 10.5% viscose, 2.5% elastane
Related: The 18 Best Straight Leg Jeans of 2023
Best Boyfriend: Good American Good Boy Straight Jeans
Who It’s Good For
Anyone looking for a pair of fitted boyfriend jeans that are available in petite sizes.
Who It’s Not Good For
Despite their casual appeal, boyfriend jeans can look frumpy and ill-fitted if they are too baggy.
If skinny jeans aren’t you thing, try boyfriend-style jeans instead – these are more relaxed and roomier. However, shorter women should opt for boyfriend jeans that are fitted rather than baggy. “Too much fabric can create a sloppy look,” says style expert Jasmine Snow. “It's much more flattering to have something tighter, and these definitely do the trick.”
Thanks to a classic wash and distressed design, you can style these jeans in so many ways. However, if you are looking for some styling ideas, here are a few from Snow. “Wearing these with a strap or metallic heel would be perfect for a night out,” she adds. “They also look great paired with a clutch or a long chain mini bag.”
Price at time of publish: $159
Size Range: 0-14 Regular, 15 Plus-22 Plus, 26 Plus, and 28 Plus | Inseam: 32 inches | Rise: Ultra-high | Material: 58% cotton, 42% lyocell
Best Straight: Agolde Riley High Rise Straight Crop Jeans
Who It’s Good For
Those seeking a pair of high-rise, straight-leg jeans with a petite-friendly inseam.
Who It’s Not Good For
There is only one color option available with these jeans, so they may not be the best choice for those looking for a wider variety.
“These vintage-style Agolde jeans have an inseam of 25.5 inches, which is ideal for shorter women,” says personal stylist Alison Bruhn. “And because they’re high-rise, your legs appear longer as a result.” Despite their versatility, Bruhn recommends pairing these jeans with fitting tops due to their heavy vintage style. “When you’re wearing a heavier vintage style jean like this one, you need something fitted up top,” she adds. “I would pair these jeans with a bodysuit (or a corset-style top) and some strappy heels.”
Price at time of publish: $188
Size Range: 23-34 | Inseam: 25.25 inches | Rise: 10.75 inches | Material: 100% cotton
Best Flare: INC International Concepts Petite Pull-On Flared Jeans
Who It’s Good For
Shoppers who are looking for petite flared jeans in a high-rise fit will appreciate this affordable pair.
Who It’s Not Good For
Some reviewers suggest these jeans run large and have no zippers to ensure a secure fit.
Flare jeans are often longer in length, making it harder to find a petite-friendly pair. Luckily, INC has you covered with this pull-on pair, which boasts a stretch waistband and high rise (although they don't have a zipper fly and button for extra security). What’s more, a cotton, polyester, and spandex blend makes these jeans comfortable, and the deeper wash allows you to wear them with a variety of outfits, formal or casual. The cherry on top? No need to feel buyer’s remorse as these are priced well under $100.
Price at time of publish: $69.50
Size Range: 0-14 petite | Inseam: Approx. 31 inches | Material: Cotton, polyester, and spandex
Best Mid-Rise: Madewell The Petite Perfect Vintage Flare Crop Jean
Who It’s Good For
If you are looking for a pair of mid-rise jeans with a flattering lighter wash and plenty of stretch.
Who It’s Not Good For
Anyone shopping for skinny mid-rise jeans or a pair that's more affordable can find others better suited to these preferences.
With a fit that falls between a high-rise and a low-rise, mid-rise jeans are perfect for anyone who wants a nice balance of both. If you're looking for an awesome pair of mid-rise jeans, then these Madewell jeans should be on your list. “These have an extremely flattering wash and plenty of stretch, so you can wear them anywhere,” says Bruhn. “Because Madewell offers petite as an option in their size range, you won't have to worry about time-consuming and costly alterations."
Price at time of publish: $128
Size Range: 23-32 (petite, standard, tall) | Inseam: 24.5 inches | Rise: 10 inches | Material: 96% cotton (6% of which is recycled), 3% elastomultiester, 1% elastane
Best Bootcut: Joe’s Jeans The Provocateur Petite Bootcut Jeans
Who It’s Good For
Anyone looking for a pair of bootcut jeans with a 30-inch inseam and a 9-inch rise.
Who It’s Not Good For
If you prefer form-fitting jeans or are wanting to find something a bit more affordable, there are better options.
Bootcut jeans provide more legroom than form-fitting skinny jeans, making them an excellent option for those who want jeans with a more relaxed fit. Having said that, Kadeem Fyffe, a New York City-based fashion design expert, says these jeans from Joe’s are a great go-to pair, as they are the perfect length and don’t overpower shorter frames. “I highly recommend these jeans,” he says. “I love this classic style because it comes in sizes 23P-34P and has innovative premium denim, with a smooth, flawless fit.”
Price at time of publish: $168
Size Range: 23-34 petite | Inseam: 30 inches | Rise: 9 inches | Material: 98% cotton, 2% spandex
Best Distressed: Agolde Kye Distressed High-Rise Straight-Leg Organic Jeans
Who It’s Good For
For anyone looking to invest in some distressed denim that help create the illusion of longer legs.
Who It’s Not Good For
Unlike some other pairs on our list, these jeans have only the slightest stretch, so they may require some breaking in.
Some distressed detailing can help jeans pop, so if you’re all about the details, you will not be disappointed with this Agolde pair. They have a high-rise fit with a straight leg, and the subtle frayed details at the pockets and hem make them great for everyday wear, says New York City-based stylist Rachel Newman. “This high-rise, straight leg style is ideal for women who want to create the illusion of longer legs,” Newman tells PEOPLE. “I like how the distress detailing is minimal; Less is more for someone with a petite build. Additionally, the mid-denim color is very flattering and can readily transition from day to night.” While these jeans can help any outfit come together, keep in mind that they don’t stretch like other pairs due to only 1 percent elastane in their construction.
Price at time of publish: $220
Size Range: 23-32 | Inseam: 25.9 inches | Rise: High | Material: 59% cotton, 40% ECOVERO, 1% elastane
Best Year-Round White: Old Navy Calla Lily White Curvy High-Waisted OG Straight Cut-Off Ankle Jeans for Women
Who It’s Good For
For curvy, short girls who want a pair of affordable, stretchy white jeans that have a high waist and ankle length, you can't go wrong with this pair.
Who It’s Not Good For
Since these are specific to curvy figures, those with slim profiles may not fit as well in these.
Despite what you may have heard, you absolutely can wear jeans after Labor Day. These petite jeans from Old Navy boast a timeless white hue, high-waist silhouette, and cropped ankle length that prevent them from being too long. But that's not all: Because of the cotton and spandex blend, they are extremely flattering and comfortable to wear from day to night. They are also extremely versatile; with the right accessories, they can go from casual to sophisticated, allowing you to wear them to the office or on weekend adventures.
Price at time of publish: $24.47
Size Range: 0-18 petite | Inseam: 26 inches | Material: 94% cotton, 5% recycled cotton, 1% spandex
Related: The 10 Best Places to Buy Jeans Online in 2023
Best Investment: Mother High-Waisted Looker Ankle Fray
Who It’s Good For
For those willing to invest in a quality pair, this ankle-inseam, high-waisted pair in a classic light blue wash is one of our favorites.
Who It’s Not Good For
Someone who prefers to wear jeans with a mid-rise, boyfriend-style, or darker wash.
Celebrity fans like Meghan Markle and Jennifer Lopez have helped Mother Denim grow in popularity in recent years. And believe us, the hype is well-deserved given that the brand offers jeans in a variety of sizes, washes, and lengths. If you’re looking for a versatile pair of jeans that will never go out of style, these are the jeans for you. They have a high-waisted style and a flattering light blue wash, so you can pair them with anything in your closet, including graphic tees, button-down shirts, and blazers. Plus, the ankle inseam and curve-accentuating fit, according to stylist Jamie Mitri make these jeans ideal for a shorter torso. “With these Mother Denim jeans, you can show off all your best features while hiding a short torso,” she tells PEOPLE. “Mother Denim is flattering for any body type — and will especially show off your behind, even if you're not up to par with your squats and have traded them in for tacos instead.” (No judgment here if so!)
Price at time of publish: $248
Size Range: 25-34 | Inseam: 27.5 inches | Rise: 10 inches | Material: 81% cotton, 11% lyocell, 6% polyester, 2% elastane
Related: The 20 Best Black Jeans, According to Fashion Experts
How to Pick the Right Jeans for Short Women
Petite Sizing
Hall recommends buying jeans from brands that provide petite-size jeans, which come in a slightly shorter length than standard styles. By doing so, you can enjoy jeans at the perfect length and avoid having to make costly alterations later on. “If you're a short woman, it's important to look for petite-size jeans, which are specifically designed for women who are 5'4" and under,” she tells PEOPLE. “Petite sizes have shorter inseams, so you won't have to worry about hemming your jeans or having them bunch up at the ankles.”
Higher Rise
High-rise jeans, according to Hall, make short legs appear longer, making them an excellent choice for shorter women. “High-rise jeans are a great option for short women because they elongate the legs and create the illusion of a longer torso,” she says. “Look for jeans with a rise of nine inches or higher, and avoid low-rise cuts that can make your legs appear shorter.”
Inseam Length
An inseam is the measurement from the crotch of the pant to the hemline. Depending on how tall you are (and how much skin you'd like to show), a 25- to 26-inch inseam is a safe bet for ankle-length jeans, while a 27-inch inseam should suffice for full-length styles if you're considered short.
Hall recommends selecting jeans that are cropped and sit just above the ankle since short shoppers want to avoid pants that are too long. “Cropped or ankle-length jeans are a great option for short women because they show off the ankle and create a lengthening effect,” she says. “Look for jeans that hit at or above the ankle bone, and pair them with heels or ankle boots to further elongate the legs.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best jeans for short women?
According to fashion influencer and stylist Claire Martinez, the best jeans for short women are pairs that add length or give the impression of height. As a result, she says short women should often choose high-rise jeans. “To add height to your frame, you should wear high-rise jeans rather than low-rise jeans, " Martinez tells PEOPLE. "A skinny, cropped jean with a length that doesn't go over your ankles is perfect."
How do I know what length of jeans to buy?
It can be hard to find a pair of jeans that fits perfectly, especially if you are short. This is why you should pay particular attention to the inseam of your jeans — this guarantees a perfect fit and prevents you from having to make further adjustments. “If you are short, make sure your jeans have a 25 to 27 [inch] inseam to avoid having them hemmed,” Martinez explains. “By knowing the inseam, you can avoid the hassle and expense of alterations.”
Is short the same as petite?
Jeans come in short and petite sizes, but Fyffe says there's a difference between the two. “There's more to being petite than having short legs — you're a bit shorter all over,” he says. “Petite sizing adjusts everything proportionately. That means the waist sits higher, the shoulders are narrower, and the sleeves are shorter, as well as the shorter inside leg.”
What jeans should short people avoid?
To add the illusion of length, avoid low-rise jeans in favor of a higher rise. You'll also want to avoid too-long, skinny styles because they can actually make your legs look shorter — instead, consider a style that shows a bit of your ankle (but if you want a longer pant, a wide-leg, fitted trouser will visually add length).
Why Trust PEOPLE?
Courtney Leiva is a contributing commerce writer for PEOPLE. Her work has appeared in The Daily Beast, Buzzfeed, HuffPost, InStyle, and more. For this piece, Courtney interviewed fashion experts Alison Bruhn, Jamie Mitri, Claire Martinez, Rachel Newman, Kadeem Fyffe, Jennifer Michalski-Bray, Jasmine Snow, Christina Stein, Breyana Wright, Madeline Hall, Diamond Ariel, and Grace Thomas for their recommendations regarding the best jeans for short women in terms of sizes, inseam lengths, rises, and materials. She also evaluated a variety of short jean styles and details and analyzed their fit, functionality, and styling potential.
Up Next: The 10 Best Jeans for Tall Women of 2023, According to Fashion Experts
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