The 22 Best Jeans for Short Women, Vetted by the Petite People Who Wear Them
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As anyone who’s petite (which we'll define here as under 5’3”) knows, it’s not easy finding a pair of jeans that fit your proportions. Whether it’s skinny jeans that leave you with a pool of fabric at the ankles or distressed details that hit at the wrong spot, there are plenty of woes that arise when slipping on denim that wasn’t designed for your frame. That’s why we’ve tapped the expertise of PureWow's editors (and fellow shorties, at that!), as well as top denim designers, to help us find the best jeans for short women.
Here's a quick rule of thumb for petites to keep in mind when searching for denim, according to our experts and editors and a handful of petite women we trust: Focus on the inseam first, which is the actual length of the jeans’ leg itself. For those on the shorter side, an inseam of 26 inches or less is the most ideal. However, if you like to wear your denim with heels, you can go for a slightly longer inseam. “At Joe’s Jeans, we consider full-length petite to be a 31-inch inseam, which can be worn with heels without dragging on the ground,” says the brand’s senior women's denim designer, Lisa Aragon. She says Joe’s also makes “ankle-length petite sizes at a 25-inch inseam, which will hit right around the ankle bone for most.” (Note: We’ll answer more of your top questions at the bottom.)
As for our favorites? You’ll have to comb the list below, but Universal Standard delivers when it comes to their denim’s hip-to-waist ratio for petites and Mother’s new array of petite styles—modeled after their beloved regular fits—are our favorite splurge. The good news: There are even more petite-friendly styles to choose from, based on our testing. Read on.
Meet the Experts
• Mary Pierson is Madewell’s SVP of Denim Design. Prior to that, she worked in design and denim production at other brands renowned for their denim, including J Brand and the Gap.
• Lisa Aragon is a Senior Denim Designer at Joe’s Jeans. She has also worked in denim design for Frame, another spot well-known for their beloved denim styles.
What to Look for in Petite Jeans
• An inseam of 26 inches or less
• A mid- or high-rise waist that helps to create the illusion of more height
• Shop for brands that carry “short” or “petite” sizes
• Avoid any styles with a wider cuff, which can make your legs appear shorter
How We Chose the Best Jeans for Short Women
To pinpoint the very best denim available for petites, we chatted with the experts above, but also polled the petite editors on our staff (and our petite pals) to get their top picks—and fit insights—on the best jeans for short women. We also corroborated our editor recommendations with customer reviews to ensure we weren’t alone singing the praises of a particular style. The result is a robust list of jean options that every short gal should keep in her back pocket.
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1. The Petite Perfect Vintage Wide-Leg Crop Jean
Petite Reviewer: Rachel Gulmi, 5’0”
The vintage feel, the fit of the high waist—this particular denim silhouette is a favorite and one that is easy to wear, no matter where your day takes you. “I normally stay away from high-waist jeans because I don’t find them comfortable, but these hit at just the right spot, making them super flattering from the front and backside," says PureWow Operations Director of Branded Content Rachel Gulmi. “Safe to say, I'd get a pair in every wash offered!” The cropped fit is also worth noting: The 25-inch inseam hits just right, but for petites looking for a slightly less cropped ankle shouldn’t overlook the regular inseam. As one 5’0 reviewer notes, “I bought this style in ‘regular,’ too, and it worked well as a full-length pant that I could wear with flats.”
2. Mother Denim The Lil’ Hustler Ankle Fray
Mother
Petite Reviewer: Rachel Bowie, 5’2”
Mother Denim is beloved for their buttery-soft denim (it feels like it beautifully melds to every curve on your body), so we were thrilled to see them add a petites line late last year. “They’ve taken all their best-selling styles—like the Hustler Ankle Fray—and tweaked the proportions for the under 5’4” set,” says PureWow Senior Director of Special Projects Rachel Bowie. “I was blown away by how well they nailed the fit, from the higher knee placement to the shorter rise. Also, the ankle length. I’m so used to taking denim to the tailor for adjustments, but this particular style was one I was able to wear right out of the box. And I live it in.”
3. Universal Standard Joni High Rise Curve Jeans
Petite Reviewer: Chelsea Candelario, 5’
The cut of the denim matters when it comes to getting the right fit and the Joni jean from Universal Standard delivers. “I hate wearing jeans, but this pair has changed my tune,” says PureWow Associate Editor Chelsea Candelario. “I'm 5’0” and the slim leg cut falls right by my ankles without any fabric bunching up, which is the worst for petite gals. They're also high-waist and fit comfortably all day long. Oh, and they have deep pockets!” That’s not all: The Joni style is ideal for those who have over a 10-inch waist-to-hip difference. By accounting for that, it means you can have a tailored fit without sacrificing flexibility and comfort—critical when choosing the right pair of denim.
4. DL1961 Bridget Boot High Rise Instasculpt Crop Jeans
DL1961
Petite Reviewer: Rachel Bowie, 5’2”
DL1961 is another star in the petite denim department—especially when it comes to their cropped styles. Yes, the “crop” hits like a regular jean here, but the fit is *chef’s kiss*—especially for petites who are used to visiting the tailor. “I also love the structure and contouring that’s inherent in the fabric with this particular style,” Bowie says. “I was stunned by how well this style lifted my tush, but also smoothed out my tummy and hips in a way that felt natural and comfortable, too.” Additional benefits: This jean has a nice “broken-in” feel—credit to the raw hem—but still is structured enough to dress up.
5. Levi’s Straight Ankle Jeans
Petite Reviewer: Katherine Gillen, 5’2”
Petites, rejoice! This style delivers a leg-lengthening effect that made us look a little taller somehow. The classic straight leg also hits right at the ankle, another win for petites. “I have the Levi’s ribcage straight ankle and the 27-inch inseam is the perfect just-above-the-ankle-bone length for me,” says PureWow Food Editor Katherine Gillen. "They come in a plethora of washes and are very waist-defining, which is ideal for someone with no waist like me.”
6. Banana Republic Petite Straight Jean
Petite Reviewer: Jillian Quint, 5’1”
The stovepipe-style fit, the darker wash—these jeans are sophisticated, stylish and ready for the office or a night on the town. Note: The cut is slim, especially through the hip and thigh, but this pair is almost entirely made from organic and recycled cotton, which means that comfort is guaranteed. “As a 5’1” lady with no hips to speak of, I’m always looking for that elusive casual, high-waist, classic jean fit,” says PureWow Editor-in-Chief Jillian Quint. “I love that these offer just a teensy bit of stretch, but are a thick enough denim to a) create the illusion of hips and b) not sag in the knees (which, p.s., actually hit at my knees).”
7. Frame Le Crop Mini Boot
Frame
Petite Reviewer: Destinee Scott, 4’11”
We can’t begin to describe the number of petite gals that mentioned this style from Frame as their favorite denim option. From the stretch cotton blend to the form-fitting silhouette, not to mention the bootcut kick at the knee, it’s a style that really does it all—and with the right inseam, no less. “I love that this style doesn’t bunch up too much at the bottom,” says PureWow Assistant Sales and Deals Director Destinee Scott. “They also have the perfect amount of stretch. I cannot stand stiff jeans and feel they do nothing for the figure, but these really hug every curve.”
8. L’Agence Kendra Jean
L'Agence
Petite Reviewer: Rachel Bowie, 5’2”
The range of petite-friendly denim options at L’Agence surprised our editors. “Yes, the Kendra is a bit of a cropped style, but the fit and feel is total perfection,” Bowie says. “After trying on in-store, I wanted this style in every wash. I love how the stretch in the material really molded itself to my frame. I also think the sanding at the waist, which gives a vintage look, is also quite flattering. I get the most compliments when I wear this particular jean.” Also worth mentioning: the fit of the flare and the cool factor that comes with the raw hem.
9. Joe’s Jeans the Icon Skinny Ankle
Petite Reviewer: Nicole Briese, 5’1”
These petite jeans are curve-hugging and sleek—a dream for anyone who loves a skinny fit. “I’m 5’1” and Joe’s Jeans are my faves,” says former Commerce Director Nicole Briese. “Ironically, I do not like buying petite or short jeans, as I feel like this sometimes puts the rest of the measurements off. My secret? Buy the full-length ones, but cropped. These ankle jeans from the brand are basically regular length on me and also fit my waist like a glove.”
10. NYDJ Marilyn Straight Jeans
Petite Reviewer: Dana Dickey, 5’3”
This problem doesn’t only apply to petites: Finding a non-see-through pair of white jeans is like uncovering the holy grail. This option fits the bill and more. No pocket flaps in sight! “I appreciate how these jeans hug my curvy booty without being too tight, or showing any visible panty lines,” says PureWow Senior Editor Dana Dickey. “They are that perfect crisp white—the brand calls it optic white—that really signals summer. And they stay crisp—even after I've endlessly washed out all the little stains that white jeans [get].” Dickey notes that the inseam is on the longer side for petites, but the fit still was good for her 5’3” fame.
11. A&F Curve Love Ultra High Rise Ankle Jean Straight
Petite Reviewer: Rachel Gulmi, 5’0”
True story: This Abercrombie & Fitch petite silhouette tends to fly off the shelves. Why? It’s made with an extra two inches through the hip and thigh to help eliminate waist gap, a common problem when you’re on the shorter side. The style also sits right at your natural waist and feels vintage, depending on the wash. “I love the extra short offering and its 23-inch inseam,” says Gulmi. “The medium wash is perfection and it’s a bonus that there is no detailing on the back pockets. They are a bit too high on the waist for me, but nothing that would make me not want to wear them.”
12. Nelle Atelier The Emily Jean
Petite Reviewer: Rachel Bowie, 5’2”
The founder of Nelle Atelier is 5’1, so she definitely knows what petites want. Nelle Atelier designs a limited collection of denim styles that caters to women who are under 5’4”. “The Emily is one of those unicorns in the petite denim space that fits perfectly straight out of the box,” says Bowie. “They hit at my natural waist, fell right at my ankle bone and looked quite cute, too. I could easily wear them with flats without an issue.” Another bonus: the silhouette. Bowie raves, “I loved the straight-leg fit.”
13. Maeve Colette Denim Cropped Wide-Leg Jeans
Maeve
Petite Reviewer: Lisa, 5’3”
This form-fitting high-rise jean offers a mod sort of look. The fabric delivers the perfect combination of structure and style. It also features two front-facing pockets that make for a surprising detail, and is free of any side seams. Per reviewer Lisa, “These are such cute denim pants. I actually sized down, as the high waist allows for it, and they still fit perfectly snug. I normally get the petite, but tried the regular fit when my size was backordered, and the length (26-inch inseam) still worked out great!”
14. Spanx Straight Leg Jeans
Petite Reviewer: Belvia, 5’2”
This button-free, pull-on design is a winner for many reasons, but especially for petites. We love the high-rise tummy shaping panel, which provides coverage—and no muffin top either. “These jeans fit well proportionally and are easy to move in,” Spanx shopper Belvia says. She recommends sizing up—as do many other reviewers, but loves the comfortable and stylish fit.
15. H&M Mom High Ankle Jeans
H&M
Petite Reviewer: Sarah, 5’3”
The price, the mom jean silhouette, the range of washes! This is a petite style that’s a must-add for your closet. “I’m 5’3 and bought a size 4 and the length is good,” petite shopper Sarah reports. “I’m always looking for a mom jean that doesn’t feel too baggy and these were perfect.”
16. Good American Petite Flare Jeans
Good American
Petite Reviewer: Kathy, 5’2”
The flare of this leg hits just right, according to reviewers who swear by the petite fit of this style. “I am so glad that Good American offers petite sizes,” Good American customer Kathy says. “The rise is just right, and they have the perfect amount of stretch with very soft fabric. They’re also so comfy. I can wear these out and lounge around the house in them.”
17. Mango Culotte High-Waist Jeans
Petite Reviewer: Pamela Masin, 5’2”
This culotte style is a beloved one for petites. Here’s why: “I’ve had difficulty finding flared jeans that don’t swallow my 5’2” frame, but when I found this pair from Mango, I knew they were a winner,” says PureWow Director of Affiliate Strategy Pam Masin. “The ultra-high waist seems to balance out the flared ankle because there’s more material on either end. While they don’t show as much ankle on my frame as they do on the model, they still work as full-length pants. And if you add a small heel, they are practically perfect. Additionally, at $70, the price is right.”
18. Old Navy Rockstar Super Skinny Maternity Jeans
Petite Reviewer: Sally, 5’2”
Pregnant women rave about this maternity style for its fit and comfort—especially when it comes to the all-stretch waist panel—but also for its affordability. “I'm 21 weeks pregnant, 5’2” and 115 pounds before pregnancy,” reports Old Navy shopper Sally. “Now I’m 126 pounds. I ordered a size 2 regular, and they fit just right. The fabric is soft and the color is dark, just as I wanted. The belly support makes me feel secure and isn’t too tight.”
19. Everlane the Curvy 90s Rigid Denim
Petite Reviewer: Hannah, 4’11”
This straight-leg style is cropped at the ankle, but fits just right for petites. The material is 100 percent cotton, so expect a structured fit. “I’m curvy and quite short and I feel like these jeans were made for me,” petite reviewer Hannah says. “While they fit quite snug, they loosen up a bit with wear since they’re a stiff cotton jean. They feel exceptionally well made and, after purchasing, I will never look back!” Other reviewers note the great fit on curvier bodies as well as the minimal waist gap. This pair of jeans is cut narrower given the straight silhouette, but there’s extra fabric in the hips to optimize how it hugs your frame.
20. AYR The Beat Drop
Petite Reviewer: Dana Dickey, 5’3”
Reviewers rave about the inseam, but also the barrel leg, which can be tough to pull off when you’re short. “This could win an award for best white jean, but this style also has a delightful 26 1/2-inch inseam and is made in the softest, most luxe denim that stretches a teensy bit, but mostly just hangs elegantly,” Dickey describes. “Somehow the curve of the leg also makes my legs look longer, even in the white denim color. I’ll even cuff it a bit to show a bit of sock like the tall girls do.” As the description says, this style delivers “comfy twill with a sneaky stretch in sunny-day washes.” Hard to go wrong.
21. Lauren Ralph Lauren Petite Mid-Rise Jean
Petite Reviewer: Sharon, 5’2”
This particular style is a favorite thanks to its shape-memory denim, which easily molds to your frame the more you wear it. But it’s also known for its variable lengths, an innovative fit option whereby you can opt for petite, which has a 29-inch inseam, or petite short, which has a 27-inch inseam. According to 5’2” shopper Sharon, “I got both the light denim and black and they are both beyond perfect. The straight leg is especially flattering. At 5’2” and 130 pounds, I ordered the size six petite and this style is a perfect fit and a great length for low heels.” It’s also worth noting that the dark washes are dyed with true indigo, a natural process which may rub off onto fabrics, leather and upholstery before multiple washings.
22. Zara High-Rise Straight-Leg Jeans
Petite Reviewer: Pamela Masin 5’2”
As a petite gal, this ultra-high waist style works wonders as a leg-lengthener. Masin agrees: “Zara’s Marine straight-leg jeans have gone viral for good reason. Not only are they the perfect ankle-grazing length for us shorties, but they’re a little more unique than your average high-waist straight jeans, since these feature square back pockets and contrasting stitching. Plus, they come in a variety of different shades and styles, like black, sand and even faux leather.” One note: The waist is pretty snug, so Masin recommends sizing up.
Are Any Jean Styles Not Great for Petite Figures?
The short answer is this: Petites can wear any style of jeans, they just might have to search a little harder to find the right pairs. After checking out the inseam, opt for a size denoted “P” or “Petite,” whenever possible, so you can snag denim with the right proportions and scale for your body. According to Pierson, shorter inseams are just the beginning. “We analyze the sizing of a petite frame and adjust points of measurement and proportion to ensure the fit intent is specific,” she says. “This includes everything from knee placement to length. Whether that’s taking in the leg opening or adjusting the rises, our end goal is to always make the fit proportional while also nailing that leg shape our customer is seeking.” Thanks to increased body inclusivity at companies including Madewell, now petites can wear just about any (yes, any) style of jeans.
“There should be no reason to shy away from or feel limited in fit assortment on account of being petite,” says Aragon, who uses the wide-leg jeans trend as an example. “The way most wide-leg jeans are cut in the market make it a tricky fit for those who would require hemming. Alterations can be costly and modify the fit when the wide leg opening is cut off at the bottom.” As long as you can find a version of this style that’s marked petite, you should be golden.
What’s the Difference Between ‘Short’ and ‘Petite’ Sizes?
Typically, “petite” sizes don’t just apply to the length of the jean, but to the rest of denim's features as well. (Think: the cut, pocket sizes, cuff lengths and trim styles.) Normally, you’ll see these labeled with a “P” and, in short (pun intended), they’re made to be proportional to your smaller frame. This means that the leg length will be the right fit, in addition to where the waistband hits on your torso (aka the rise). The size and shape of the pockets and the placement of the pockets are also taken into consideration.
According to the blog Petite Dressing, “Petite jeans are made with the assumption of petites having a shorter rise as well as shorter legs” but in some cases, “petites may have longer rises than average petites, so what they really need is just jeans with [a] shorter inseam.” In those instances, look for “short” sizes that have abbreviated leg length, while the rest of the jean's proportions will be the same as the brand's standard sizes.
