Isn’t it the best feeling to shop for jeans, try them on and then realize they fit like a glove? From your waist to your ankles, feeling comfortable sans the need for alterations or for a seamstress to take them in.
For petite frames in particular, we wish this was always the case.
While body shapes and sizes surely vary, the message is clear: petite women tend to have a more difficult time shopping for jeans. Or, any bottoms, really.
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“The term ‘petite’ simply refers to a woman who are 5’4 and under,” Jordan Stolch, personal and celebrity stylist and founder/CEO of MIKADO, a full-service concierge personal styling firm, told the New York Post. “It’s commonly mistaken that this clothing category relates to size or shape of the body, when in fact it is only used in reference to height.”
Luckily, The Post put our heads together to hype up the best-ever petite jeans we wear on the regular, listed below. You’ll also find Stolch’s expert tips she dug from the professional stylist trove.
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“Because the petite woman is shorter, her proportions are also shorter – arms, legs, torso, rise,” Stolch explained. “For this reason, a separate clothing category is often provided to offer clothing options with all around shorter proportions.”
From Abercrombie and Madewell to Amazon and LOFT, find the best brands and specific styles we can’t stop turning around in the mirror for.
Click to jump to a specific section:
- Best Petite Jeans Overall: Rails
- Best Value Petite Jeans: Old Navy
- Best Petite Jeans Worth the Splurge: PAIGE
- Best Wide-Leg Petite Jeans: Abercrombie
- Best Flare and Bootcut Petite Jeans: Good American; MOTHER; SPANX; J.Crew
- Best Straight-Leg Petite Jeans: Everlane
- Best Cropped Petite Jeans: Madewell
- Best Plus Size Petite Jeans: Universal Standard
- Best Skinny Petite Jeans: American Eagle
- Best Maternity Petite Jeans: Seraphine
Rails Larchmont Skinny Jean
Pros:
- True-to-size fit
- Doesn’t fade when washed
- Comfortable for all-day wear
Cons:
- Price may be unreachable for some
I can’t hype the Rails Larchmont Skinny Jean enough. They’re my most-worn pair whether I’m off to the office or to grab dinner with friends. To me, they’re the ideal wash, feature a true-to-size fit and are comfortable for all-day wear.
Though an investment, they’re my No. 1 jeans pick wherever I’m going. Three other washes are also available. Not to mention, I love pairing them with my most comfortable heels.
Best Value Petite Jeans
Old Navy Mid-Rise Wow Boot-Cut Jeans
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Flattering fit, especially at the waist
Cons:
- May not be as flattering-snug around the knees from the looks of them
“Old Navy has an impressive range in the petite category, with lots of washes and cuts available,” Stolch said. “Best of all, their denim is set apart from other retailers, due to the super affordable price points.”
Our stylist master said this classic dark boot cut style is perfect for the office paired with a blazer, or styled with a nice blouse for a weekend brunch.
Best Petite Jeans Worth the Splurge
PAIGE Gemma Petite Jeans — Black Lotus
Pros:
- Isn’t prone to fading as quickly as some other pairs tried
- Stretchy yet flattering
Cons:
- Price may be unreachable for some
- Sellout risk
“PAIGE never disappoints when it comes to perfectly fitting denim, including the full range of their petite category,” Stolch said. “This Gemma stovetop style hits right at the ankle and features a vintage black wash that feels perfectly lived-in from the first wear.”
From my experience ordering PAIGE jeans, I love how each pair is true to size and how each denim wash feels as my hand brushes up against it. The quality is surely there, even if the prized Gemma style isn’t your absolute fave.
Best Wide-Leg Petite Jeans
Abercrombie High Rise 90s Relaxed Jean
Pros:
- One of the most flattering fits and brands for denim
- Incredible wash selection
Cons:
- Price may be unreachable for some
- Sellout risk
“Following a recent rebrand in 2021, Abercrombie has prioritized inclusive sizing, including a wide offering for shorter women, making it a favorite amongst denim enthusiasts,” Stolch shared. “This on-trend 90’s-style relaxed cut is slim at the top with a wider, long leg shape – perfect for styling with heels and booties on a night out.”
If I could write a love letter to Abercrombie, I would. In fact, I technically did when I reviewed the lion’s share of the brand’s top, most-signature styles. I probably own about five pairs of jeans from the touted-about retailer and I love how comfortable they are and how they fit on my 5’4″ frame. Plus, I never need a hem and the way they hug your waist and backside will have you coming back for more.
Best Flare and Bootcut Petite Jeans
Good American Good Petite Bootcut Jeans
Pros:
- Prized for being body-hugging and booty-loving
- Boast a petite rise and fit, specially curated for a specific shopper
- Available in plus sizes
Cons:
- Price may be unreachable for some
“Good American is known for fitting all body types – and that includes a wide variety for petite women,” Stolch noted. “These full-length bootcut jeans are the ultimate ‘legs for days‘ lengthening effect, made of a recovery Lycra blend, that holds through repeated wear.”
The fabric is much-loved for its body-hugging look and feel. For that reason, it’s worth the investment. The brand is also petite-conscious, exhibiting a petite rise and fit to remain picture-perfect for your specific body shape. And, the best part? Plus sizes are readily available.
MOTHER PETITES The Lil’ Hustler Ankle Fray
Pros:
- Higher knee placement and lower inseam and rise to specially appeal to petite frames
- On-trend raw hem that’s subtle
Cons:
- Price may be unreachable for some
- Not a wide variety of washes
“Good things come in small packages, which is certainly the case for MOTHER’s best-selling Hustler style – now available in a petite cut,” Stolch said. “The flared style, with a raw edge hem, is sure to be one of your most-loved pairs of jeans.”
It’s the hybrid of the straight-leg and flare, the ideal combo for those who crave a versatile fit that’ll hug their bodies like a charm. Additionally, the slightly cropped hem makes it even more fitting for warmer weather.
SPANX Flare Jeans
Pros:
- Extremely comfortable brand fabric and stretch
- Signature wash varieties to meet shoppers’ specific preferences
- Available in plus sizes
Cons:
- Price may be unreachable for some
- Sellout risk
“There’s a reason this flare jean has so many five-star reviews – it’s extremely flattering, especially for shorter women!” Stolch announced. “It’s designed with premium stretch denim, that retains its hold throughout the day, and hidden shaping technology, making them as functional as they are flattering.”
Moreover, the brand is on Oprah’s Favorite Things List for loungewear and is a celebrity favorite. Naturally, they’re one of our favorites, too, because they’re (1) worth the investment and (2) feature a material that’s second to none.
J.Crew Petite 9″ Demi-Boot Crop Jean
Pros:
- Fair price point, compared to some other brands
- Excellent wash variety
Cons:
- Not available in plus sizes
“The subtle flare of this demi-boot style from J Crew, contours to the body, accentuating your shape and curves,” Stolch said, recommending this specific pair for petite women. “The medium blue wash makes them a perfect pair for everyday use, styled with tennis shoes, flats or booties.”
Additionally, J.Crew is a top brand for classic, traditional styles that meet a variety of consumers. Specifically, I love how its chino shorts fit and, while I don’t have a pair of jeans from the retailer quite yet, it’s next on my must-try list. For more options, check out The Post’s J.Crew gift guide.
Best Straight-Leg Petite Jeans
Everlane The Original Cheeky Jean
Pros:
- One of the most comfortable brands for denim
- Secure fit
- Excellent wash variety
Cons:
- The waist tends to fall a bit higher than one’s natural waistline, though not a dealbreaker
“The Original Cheeky, is the best-selling jean from Everlane, and is available in a short inseam making it a perfect option for petite women,” Stolch shared. “It features a slim-straight cut, paired with a raised back-hook seam that lifts and tightens, as well as the brand’s signature Happy Pockets – all of which create a lifted, flattering look.”
I’m truly obsessed with the brand and reach for The Way-High Sailor Jean ($128) regularly, another petite-friendly option. I receive plenty of compliments on the pair too, with this less-than-$100 option serving a bit more of a tailored look that’s the definition of cult-classic. Whichever way you slice the brand, you’ll be satisfied.
Best Cropped Petite Jeans
Madewell The Petite Perfect Vintage Wide-Leg Crop Jean
Pros:
- Variety of petite-friendly options besides this particular style (ahem, its petite shop)
- Available in plus sizes
- Versatile, comfortable fit
Cons:
- Price may be unreachable for some
- Sellout risk
The Perfect Vintage from Madewell is a fan-favorite option for a reason.
“These cropped jeans have a slouchy wide leg, that hits at just the right spot on the petite woman,” Stolch pinpointed. “The white canvas colorway is a stylish alternative to your blue washes, and easily lends itself to both casual and dressier ensembles.”
Additionally, Madewell is unlike any other for denim looks. I personally love the brand’s The Jean Jacket ($128) that’s such a classic, its name is literally the jean jacket. That’s it, the brand cuts right to the chase with its denim and — the best part — you can bring in a pair of any jeans to one of its brick-and-mortar store and receive a percentage off a new jean purchase.
Best Plus Size Petite Jeans
Universal Standard Seine Petite High Rise Skinny Jeans
Pros:
- Generous size range
- Excellent wash selection
- Well-varied inseam options to appeal to different petite heights
Cons:
- Some reviewers say the jeans tend to run small or short, so be wary when ordering
“Universal Standard is at the top of the list of must-know brands for inclusive sizing – which includes its plus size, petite options,” Stolch noted. “These black skinny jeans are a staple for every woman’s wardrobe, specifically engineered for a perfect fit and unreal comfort.”
Not to mention, plus-size jeans with a shorter inseam can be difficult to find, however, Universal Standard makes the search much simpler. Above all else, the price point is fairly accessible and the wash selections will have you wanting more than one.
Best Skinny Petite Jeans
AE Next Level High-Waisted Jegging
Pros:
- Extremely comfortable fit
- Wonderful value
- Flattering from waist to ankle
Cons:
- Softness will fade upon years of washing, though not a dealbreaker
Listen, when I tell you I’ve been sporting the AE Next Level High-Waisted Jegging since middle school, I’m not kidding. Lasting for more than a decade, this comfortable fit proves that skinny jeans aren’t going anywhere. At least for me, because I’m certainly not willing to give these jeans up.
Of course, the denim isn’t as soft as when initially purchased but, for 10+ years and still fitting securely with a great stretch, the longevity is there. Plus, for $40, I’d say you’re receiving a prime value if a skinny jean is what you’re going for.
The jegging material is one to rave about, too. They’ll feel like your best leggings with pockets — and for that, they should be celebrated.
Best Maternity Petite Jeans
Seraphine Organic Under Bump Skinny Maternity Jeans
Pros:
- Well-respected brand for maternity clothing
- Fair price point
- Stretchy around the waist (which pregnant women crave, TBH)
Cons:
- Skinny fit may not be everyone’s cup of tea
“Seraphine makes several styles of petite maternity jeans, which means even during pregnancy you can still find the perfect fit,” Stolch recommended, singing the brand’s praises. “This classic dark wash skinny style is made of soft stretch denim, with a jersey panel that fits comfortably under your bump. Perfect throughout every stage of pregnancy!”
Additionally, they’re one of the best brands The Post rounded up for maternity jeans after much research and consulting with experts.
An FAQ on Petite Jeans
Ahead, our professional stylist expert details what to know about petite jeans before purchasing a pair. Yes, they’re more nuanced than you would think.
How do petite jeans differ from traditional ones?
“Petite jeans differ from standard jeans in that both the inseam and the rise are shorter to accommodate the shorter body, and the knee placement is higher, so that the style hits in all the right places,” Stolch told The Post.
You may also see retailers offering jeans in a “short inseam” category. “This is not the same as a petite jean, because the rise of this category is the same length as the rise of a standard jean, and the knee placement falls in the same spot,” Stolch added. “This can still serve as a good option for shorter women, especially when true petite jeans aren’t available, but it’s important to understand the difference as one will typically provide a better all-around fit.”
What styles are the most flattering on petite frames?
“Full-length jeans are really flattering on a petite frame, because they make the length of the legs, and overall body, appear longer,” Stolch shared, providing her tried-and-true style tips.
Additionally, bootcut styles, worn with a small to medium heel, are a great choice for creating this look of added length. “Especially if you choose a low contrast shoe and jean color pairing (like dark jeans with dark shoes, light jeans with lighter shoes), which naturally continues the visual length of the leg,” Stolch said.
And, skinny or straight cuts that end at the ankle, paired with flats or booties, are also an excellent option for creating an elongated look.
What jean styles should petite women avoid?
According to Stolch, cropped and capri-style jeans that hit at the mid-shin are not as flattering on petite women because they make the legs, and the overall body, appear shorter. “I always remind my clients that the length of the body is read visually through clothing – when our goal is to elongate the look of the frame, the best thing we can do is choose long lines and avoid cropped or shorter silhouettes,” she added.
That said, a standard cropped jean is often a great option for shorter women when petite styles are not available. “A standard cropped jean (aka not a petite crop) will sit on a shorter woman right at her ankle, and won’t be too long as is always the case when a woman under 5’4 wears standard length jeans,” Stolch explained.
Do high-waisted jeans look good on petite women?
Of course, we don’t like to say, “these don’t look good on anyone” but, when you’re a professional stylist (and a commerce reporter who happens to have a petite frame), you want the intel.
“Super high-rise jeans typically sit too high on the body of a petite woman, creating the appearance of an extremely short torso,” Stolch noted. “Instead, opt for a medium-rise style, which sits slightly lower and elongates the look of the upper body, or a moderately high rise, which sits near the natural waistline.”
Can petite women wear straight-leg jeans?
Yes absolutely, petite women can certainly wear straight jeans, with the best option being full length. “Straight-leg jeans are extremely flattering on all body types, which is why we see them dominating the denim category from all retailers,” Stolch shared.
Because the petite category is based strictly on height and not body shape, other fit factors should be taken into account when selecting between skinny, straight, boot and more.
What styles and washes of jeans are trending right now?
“Kickout, demi boot, and wider leg styles are extremely popular right now, and are very flattering on all body types,” Stolch tipped off. “Especially for the woman looking to balance her curves.”
Naturally, the 90s fit and “mom” jeans, both of which fall under the category of a straight cut, are also trending. “These can be more challenging to fit, depending on the body type, so I always recommend practicing patience and comparing lots of options,” she added.
Light to medium washes have been trending for several years in a row now, and continue to be the front runner, so that’s another shade variety to keep in mind during your jeans shopping spree.
Check out the New York Post Shopping section for more content.