The Best Petite Jeans for Women, Washed and Worn by Women Under 5'4"

Mar. 15, 2025

In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsAdd to CartWhat To KnowBehind the ScenesFAQWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?

In This ArticleView All

In This Article

View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

Add to Cart

What To Know

Behind the Scenes

FAQ

Why Trust PEOPLE?

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

Photo:People / Erin Johnson (2) / Lee Hubilla

People / Erin Johnson (2) / Lee Hubilla

Nothing will ruin a day faster than trying on a pile of jeans only to find none fit. I’m petite, and finding the right pair of jeans can feel like a never-ending quest.Thankfully, many of our editors (and their family members) are also 5'4" and under, so when we tested17 popular jean brandsthis year, we took special note of the best jeans for short women. We also spoke to 12 fashion experts on what to look for when shopping for petite jeans — and the difference between petite and “short” lengths.Expert Shopping Tips for Women 5'4" and UnderOpt for high-waisted over low-rise jeans (to give the illusion of longer legs).Look for a 25- to 27-inch inseam.Note that “petite jeans” and “short” sizes are not the same. Short sizing usually only refers to inseam length, while petite jeans are proportionately smaller in all areas.Fromstraight-leg skinniestohigh-waisted mom jeans, keep reading for PEOPLE’s top picks, based on first-hand experience from petite denim lovers.Our Top PicksSALELevi’s Wedgie Straight Fit Jeans at Amazon$80$48Jump to ReviewOld Navy Extra High-Waisted Rockstar 360° Stretch Super-Skinny Jeans at Old NavyJump to ReviewEverlane The Way-High Jean at Everlane.com$118Jump to ReviewAbercrombie & Fitch Ultra High Rise 90s Jean at Abercrombie.comJump to ReviewAbercrombie & Fitch Curve Love Ultra High Rise 90s Straight Jeans at Abercrombie.comJump to ReviewSALEGood American Good Legs Skinny Jeans at Amazon$99$80Jump to ReviewMadewell Kick Out Crop Jeans at Amazon$188Jump to ReviewLoft High Rise Kick Crop Jeans at Loft.comJump to ReviewLee Legendary Boyfriend Jean at Amazon$43Jump to ReviewBest Comfortable Heel:SALEDr. Scholl’s Maya Block Heel Sandals at Amazon$110$67Jump to Review

Nothing will ruin a day faster than trying on a pile of jeans only to find none fit. I’m petite, and finding the right pair of jeans can feel like a never-ending quest.

Thankfully, many of our editors (and their family members) are also 5'4" and under, so when we tested17 popular jean brandsthis year, we took special note of the best jeans for short women. We also spoke to 12 fashion experts on what to look for when shopping for petite jeans — and the difference between petite and “short” lengths.

Expert Shopping Tips for Women 5'4" and UnderOpt for high-waisted over low-rise jeans (to give the illusion of longer legs).Look for a 25- to 27-inch inseam.Note that “petite jeans” and “short” sizes are not the same. Short sizing usually only refers to inseam length, while petite jeans are proportionately smaller in all areas.

Expert Shopping Tips for Women 5'4" and Under

Opt for high-waisted over low-rise jeans (to give the illusion of longer legs).Look for a 25- to 27-inch inseam.Note that “petite jeans” and “short” sizes are not the same. Short sizing usually only refers to inseam length, while petite jeans are proportionately smaller in all areas.

Fromstraight-leg skinniestohigh-waisted mom jeans, keep reading for PEOPLE’s top picks, based on first-hand experience from petite denim lovers.

Our Top PicksSALELevi’s Wedgie Straight Fit Jeans at Amazon$80$48Jump to ReviewOld Navy Extra High-Waisted Rockstar 360° Stretch Super-Skinny Jeans at Old NavyJump to ReviewEverlane The Way-High Jean at Everlane.com$118Jump to ReviewAbercrombie & Fitch Ultra High Rise 90s Jean at Abercrombie.comJump to ReviewAbercrombie & Fitch Curve Love Ultra High Rise 90s Straight Jeans at Abercrombie.comJump to ReviewSALEGood American Good Legs Skinny Jeans at Amazon$99$80Jump to ReviewMadewell Kick Out Crop Jeans at Amazon$188Jump to ReviewLoft High Rise Kick Crop Jeans at Loft.comJump to ReviewLee Legendary Boyfriend Jean at Amazon$43Jump to ReviewBest Comfortable Heel:SALEDr. Scholl’s Maya Block Heel Sandals at Amazon$110$67Jump to Review

SALELevi’s Wedgie Straight Fit Jeans at Amazon$80$48Jump to ReviewOld Navy Extra High-Waisted Rockstar 360° Stretch Super-Skinny Jeans at Old NavyJump to ReviewEverlane The Way-High Jean at Everlane.com$118Jump to ReviewAbercrombie & Fitch Ultra High Rise 90s Jean at Abercrombie.comJump to ReviewAbercrombie & Fitch Curve Love Ultra High Rise 90s Straight Jeans at Abercrombie.comJump to ReviewSALEGood American Good Legs Skinny Jeans at Amazon$99$80Jump to ReviewMadewell Kick Out Crop Jeans at Amazon$188Jump to ReviewLoft High Rise Kick Crop Jeans at Loft.comJump to ReviewLee Legendary Boyfriend Jean at Amazon$43Jump to ReviewBest Comfortable Heel:SALEDr. Scholl’s Maya Block Heel Sandals at Amazon$110$67Jump to Review

SALELevi’s Wedgie Straight Fit Jeans at Amazon$80$48Jump to Review

SALELevi’s Wedgie Straight Fit Jeans at Amazon$80$48

SALE

Old Navy Extra High-Waisted Rockstar 360° Stretch Super-Skinny Jeans at Old NavyJump to Review

Old Navy Extra High-Waisted Rockstar 360° Stretch Super-Skinny Jeans at Old Navy

Everlane The Way-High Jean at Everlane.com$118Jump to Review

Everlane The Way-High Jean at Everlane.com$118

Abercrombie & Fitch Ultra High Rise 90s Jean at Abercrombie.comJump to Review

Abercrombie & Fitch Ultra High Rise 90s Jean at Abercrombie.com

Abercrombie & Fitch Curve Love Ultra High Rise 90s Straight Jeans at Abercrombie.comJump to Review

Abercrombie & Fitch Curve Love Ultra High Rise 90s Straight Jeans at Abercrombie.com

SALEGood American Good Legs Skinny Jeans at Amazon$99$80Jump to Review

SALEGood American Good Legs Skinny Jeans at Amazon$99$80

Madewell Kick Out Crop Jeans at Amazon$188Jump to Review

Madewell Kick Out Crop Jeans at Amazon$188

Loft High Rise Kick Crop Jeans at Loft.comJump to Review

Loft High Rise Kick Crop Jeans at Loft.com

Lee Legendary Boyfriend Jean at Amazon$43Jump to Review

Lee Legendary Boyfriend Jean at Amazon$43

Best Comfortable Heel:SALEDr. Scholl’s Maya Block Heel Sandals at Amazon$110$67Jump to Review

Best Comfortable Heel:SALEDr. Scholl’s Maya Block Heel Sandals at Amazon$110$67

Best Comfortable Heel:

Levi’s Wedgie Straight Fit Jeans$80$48 at Amazon$98 at Nordstrom$70 at Target

Levi’s Wedgie Straight Fit Jeans

$80$48 at Amazon$98 at Nordstrom$70 at Target

Star QualitiesLifts and squeezes in all the right places — especially in the backClassic straight-leg style will survive all trendsRed FlagsA bit stiff at first, so you may need to break them in a bit

Star QualitiesLifts and squeezes in all the right places — especially in the backClassic straight-leg style will survive all trends

Lifts and squeezes in all the right places — especially in the back

Classic straight-leg style will survive all trends

Red FlagsA bit stiff at first, so you may need to break them in a bit

A bit stiff at first, so you may need to break them in a bit

If you’re looking for a straight-leg jean that highlights your backside, this is your pair. Our petite editorslovethe Levi’s Wedgie jeans.

I’m a life-long Levi’s fan, but I avoided these jeans for years because the term “wedgie” scared me. After testing this pair for months, I cannot get over how great they look on my short frame. —Erin Johnson, associate editorial director

“If you prefer straight-leg denim, you simply cannot beat this pair,” celebrity stylist Jennifer Michalski-Bray tells PEOPLE. The high waist elongates legs, while the wedgie look suggests a taut derriere, perfect for women with short legs."

Sizes:23-33|Inseam:26-30|Material:97% cotton, 2% elastomultiester, 1% elastane

PEOPLE Associate Shopping Director Erin Johnson (5'1") in Levi’s Wedgie Straight Jeans.People/Erin Johnson

Old Navy Extra High-Waisted Rockstar 360° Stretch Super-Skinny JeansPHOTO: Old NavyView on Old Navy

Old Navy Extra High-Waisted Rockstar 360° Stretch Super-Skinny Jeans

PHOTO: Old Navy

View on Old Navy

Star QualitiesComfortable, stretchy high-waistedSoft, supple denimRed FlagsDistressed, raw hem might not be for everyone

Star QualitiesComfortable, stretchy high-waistedSoft, supple denim

Comfortable, stretchy high-waisted

Soft, supple denim

Red FlagsDistressed, raw hem might not be for everyone

Distressed, raw hem might not be for everyone

If you’re looking for a truly comfortable petite skinny jean, this pair from Old Navy is for you. Our short editors loved how stretchy and soft this pair felt during testing. They felt like wearing leggings and were perfect for everything from running errands to long days working at a desk. The extra high waist flattered and accentuated our petite figures without feeling restrictive.

This denim is more lightweight than others making it perfect for warmer weather. The raw hem is meant to fray and distress over time for a more vintage and worn-in look.

Sizes:0-18|Inseam:25 inches|Material:58% cotton, 31% recycled polyester, 6% recycled cotton, 35 other, 2% spandex

Everlane The Way-High JeanPHOTO: Everlane$118 at Everlane.comStar QualitiesThe high-rise waist will elongate your silhouette — giving legs for daysSupportive and secure fitRed FlagsMade with thicker cotton, these are best for cooler climatesThe Everlane Way-High jeans will highlight and shape your waist with its above-the-belly button rise. We love that this thicker, high-quality denim had the right amount of stretch and was soft to the touch.It hits right at the ankle and with a classic, distress-free finish it can be dressed up or down–the possibilities are endless. Its silhouette is timeless and even though it’s better for cooler weather, it’ll be a go-to in any petite person’s closet.Sizes:23-55|Inseam:25.5-29.5|Material:98% organic cotton, 2% elastanePEOPLE Tester (5'2") in Everlane Way High Jeans.People / Lydia Price

Everlane The Way-High JeanPHOTO: Everlane$118 at Everlane.com

Everlane The Way-High Jean

PHOTO: Everlane

$118 at Everlane.com

Star QualitiesThe high-rise waist will elongate your silhouette — giving legs for daysSupportive and secure fitRed FlagsMade with thicker cotton, these are best for cooler climates

Star QualitiesThe high-rise waist will elongate your silhouette — giving legs for daysSupportive and secure fit

The high-rise waist will elongate your silhouette — giving legs for days

Supportive and secure fit

Red FlagsMade with thicker cotton, these are best for cooler climates

Made with thicker cotton, these are best for cooler climates

The Everlane Way-High jeans will highlight and shape your waist with its above-the-belly button rise. We love that this thicker, high-quality denim had the right amount of stretch and was soft to the touch.

It hits right at the ankle and with a classic, distress-free finish it can be dressed up or down–the possibilities are endless. Its silhouette is timeless and even though it’s better for cooler weather, it’ll be a go-to in any petite person’s closet.

Sizes:23-55|Inseam:25.5-29.5|Material:98% organic cotton, 2% elastane

PEOPLE Tester (5'2") in Everlane Way High Jeans.People / Lydia Price

People / Lydia Price

Abercrombie & Fitch Ultra High Rise 90s JeanPHOTO: Abercrombie & FitchView on Abercrombie.comStar QualitiesAvailable in short and extra shortDurable and comfortable denimRed FlagsWaist gaps might happen for those with hourglass or pear shape figuresThe Abercrombie Ultra High Rise 90s jean comes in an impressive 5 inseam lengths including short and extra-short. (No more cuffing your jeans!)Our petite editors loved the feel of this durable denim: The fabric wasn’t too stiff or too thin, just a perfect medium weight that’ll work all year round whether you pair them with a T-shirt and sneakers or a blouse andwork flats. These jeans felt comfortable and fit well during all our daily activities from running errands to going out.For anyone with wider hips and a narrower waist, theCurve Loveversion will prevent any waist gaps and provide a flattering retro look.Sizes:23-37 |Inseam:26.5 inches (extra short), 28.5 inches (short), 30.5 inches (regular), 32.5 inches (long), extra long |Material:99% cotton, 1% elastanePEOPLE Tester in Abercrombie Ultra High Rise Jeans in Short Length.People / Emerald Elitou

Abercrombie & Fitch Ultra High Rise 90s JeanPHOTO: Abercrombie & FitchView on Abercrombie.com

Abercrombie & Fitch Ultra High Rise 90s Jean

PHOTO: Abercrombie & Fitch

View on Abercrombie.com

Star QualitiesAvailable in short and extra shortDurable and comfortable denimRed FlagsWaist gaps might happen for those with hourglass or pear shape figures

Star QualitiesAvailable in short and extra shortDurable and comfortable denim

Available in short and extra short

Durable and comfortable denim

Red FlagsWaist gaps might happen for those with hourglass or pear shape figures

Waist gaps might happen for those with hourglass or pear shape figures

The Abercrombie Ultra High Rise 90s jean comes in an impressive 5 inseam lengths including short and extra-short. (No more cuffing your jeans!)

Our petite editors loved the feel of this durable denim: The fabric wasn’t too stiff or too thin, just a perfect medium weight that’ll work all year round whether you pair them with a T-shirt and sneakers or a blouse andwork flats. These jeans felt comfortable and fit well during all our daily activities from running errands to going out.

For anyone with wider hips and a narrower waist, theCurve Loveversion will prevent any waist gaps and provide a flattering retro look.

Sizes:23-37 |Inseam:26.5 inches (extra short), 28.5 inches (short), 30.5 inches (regular), 32.5 inches (long), extra long |Material:99% cotton, 1% elastane

PEOPLE Tester in Abercrombie Ultra High Rise Jeans in Short Length.People / Emerald Elitou

People / Emerald Elitou

Abercrombie & Fitch Curve Love Ultra High Rise 90s Straight JeansPHOTO: Abercrombie & FitchView on Abercrombie.comStar QualitiesHugged our curves and not a waist gap in sightHigh-quality denimRed FlagsSturdy fabric wasn’t as stretchy or soft as some others we’ve triedThe Curve Love version of our fave Abercrombie high-rise 90s straight jeans delivers all the same retro goodness without the waist gaps (a common issue for when searching forjeans for curvy women).This pair accentuated our hourglass silhouette and left us feeling confident. We love that these are also available in short and extra short lengths. The denim feels structured and supportive but still comfortable enough to wear all day. While there are softer and stretchier pairs of jeans out there, the durable quality feels like a testament to how long these will last.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.”Sizes:23-37|Inseam:Extra short - 26.5 inches, Short - 28.5 inches|Material:99% cotton, 1% elastanePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: People

Abercrombie & Fitch Curve Love Ultra High Rise 90s Straight JeansPHOTO: Abercrombie & FitchView on Abercrombie.com

Abercrombie & Fitch Curve Love Ultra High Rise 90s Straight Jeans

Star QualitiesHugged our curves and not a waist gap in sightHigh-quality denimRed FlagsSturdy fabric wasn’t as stretchy or soft as some others we’ve tried

Star QualitiesHugged our curves and not a waist gap in sightHigh-quality denim

Hugged our curves and not a waist gap in sight

High-quality denim

Red FlagsSturdy fabric wasn’t as stretchy or soft as some others we’ve tried

Sturdy fabric wasn’t as stretchy or soft as some others we’ve tried

The Curve Love version of our fave Abercrombie high-rise 90s straight jeans delivers all the same retro goodness without the waist gaps (a common issue for when searching forjeans for curvy women).

This pair accentuated our hourglass silhouette and left us feeling confident. We love that these are also available in short and extra short lengths. The denim feels structured and supportive but still comfortable enough to wear all day. While there are softer and stretchier pairs of jeans out there, the durable quality feels like a testament to how long these will last.

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.”

Sizes:23-37|Inseam:Extra short - 26.5 inches, Short - 28.5 inches|Material:99% cotton, 1% elastane

PHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: People

Good American Good Legs Skinny JeansPHOTO: Nordstrom$99$80 at Amazon$99 at NordstromView on Goodamerican.com

Good American Good Legs Skinny Jeans

PHOTO: Nordstrom

$99$80 at Amazon$99 at NordstromView on Goodamerican.com

Star QualitiesSoft-to-the-touch denimStretchy and supportive without waist gapsExpansive size rangeRed FlagsMinor inconsistencies in construction that didn’t affect fit or wear

Star QualitiesSoft-to-the-touch denimStretchy and supportive without waist gapsExpansive size range

Soft-to-the-touch denim

Stretchy and supportive without waist gaps

Expansive size range

Red FlagsMinor inconsistencies in construction that didn’t affect fit or wear

Minor inconsistencies in construction that didn’t affect fit or wear

We loved this petite-friendly classic skinny jean from Good American. This form-fitting, compressive pair hugged every part of our legs and not to mention snatched our waist and highlighted our bums. The hem hit perfectly at the ankle, highlighting the thinnest part of the leg for a flattering silhoutte.

They proved comfortable and stretchy and retained their shape at the end of the day, which isn’t common for stretchy jeans.

Sizes:00-30 Plus|Inseam:27 inches|Material:98.5% organic cotton, 1.5% elastane

Madewell Kick Out Crop JeansPHOTO: Madewell$188 at Amazon$138$97 at Nordstrom$138$115 at ZapposStar QualitiesSuper comfortableStretchy waistband and mid-rise made for a flattering fitRed FlagsPotential for a waist gap for those with curvier figuresThe cropped, subtle flare silhouette of the Madewell Kick-Out jeans highlighted and complemented our petite editors' curves. What more can one ask for? We enjoyed how soft and flexible the denim was, and our editors noted that they were almost yoga-worthy (a.k.a. super stretchy).While we noticed some waist gaps during testing, opting for thecurvy versionwould remedy that issue. These comfy, lightweight jeans maintained their shape and color after washing (without fading!) throughout the entire testing period.Sizes:23-33|Inseam:25.5 inches|Material:85% cotton/13% recycled polyester/2% elastanePHOTO: People / Madison YaugerPHOTO: People / Joelle HernandezPHOTO: People / Cai Cramer

Madewell Kick Out Crop JeansPHOTO: Madewell$188 at Amazon$138$97 at Nordstrom$138$115 at Zappos

Madewell Kick Out Crop Jeans

PHOTO: Madewell

$188 at Amazon$138$97 at Nordstrom$138$115 at Zappos

Star QualitiesSuper comfortableStretchy waistband and mid-rise made for a flattering fitRed FlagsPotential for a waist gap for those with curvier figures

Star QualitiesSuper comfortableStretchy waistband and mid-rise made for a flattering fit

Super comfortable

Stretchy waistband and mid-rise made for a flattering fit

Red FlagsPotential for a waist gap for those with curvier figures

Potential for a waist gap for those with curvier figures

The cropped, subtle flare silhouette of the Madewell Kick-Out jeans highlighted and complemented our petite editors' curves. What more can one ask for? We enjoyed how soft and flexible the denim was, and our editors noted that they were almost yoga-worthy (a.k.a. super stretchy).

While we noticed some waist gaps during testing, opting for thecurvy versionwould remedy that issue. These comfy, lightweight jeans maintained their shape and color after washing (without fading!) throughout the entire testing period.

Sizes:23-33|Inseam:25.5 inches|Material:85% cotton/13% recycled polyester/2% elastane

PHOTO: People / Madison YaugerPHOTO: People / Joelle HernandezPHOTO: People / Cai Cramer

Loft High Rise Kick Crop JeansPHOTO: LoftView on Loft.comStar QualitiesSculpting fit; super flatteringClean and casual look that’s versatileRed FlagsRuns a tad small, so size up if you’re between sizesWith a cropped, slight flare hitting right at the ankle, this pair from Loft hugged and supported our curves. If you’re looking for a more snatched and shaping fit, stick with your true size. If you want a bit more room to move, we recommend sizing up. We were impressed at how high quality these jeans felt for the price point. Plus, the weight is perfect for year-round use: not too thick and and not too thin.Sizes:24-36|Inseam:24 inches|Material:93% cotton, 5% elasterell-P, 2% spandexPHOTO: People / Sonal PatelPHOTO: People / A. Burnett

Loft High Rise Kick Crop JeansPHOTO: LoftView on Loft.com

Loft High Rise Kick Crop Jeans

PHOTO: Loft

View on Loft.com

Star QualitiesSculpting fit; super flatteringClean and casual look that’s versatileRed FlagsRuns a tad small, so size up if you’re between sizes

Star QualitiesSculpting fit; super flatteringClean and casual look that’s versatile

Sculpting fit; super flattering

Clean and casual look that’s versatile

Red FlagsRuns a tad small, so size up if you’re between sizes

Runs a tad small, so size up if you’re between sizes

With a cropped, slight flare hitting right at the ankle, this pair from Loft hugged and supported our curves. If you’re looking for a more snatched and shaping fit, stick with your true size. If you want a bit more room to move, we recommend sizing up. We were impressed at how high quality these jeans felt for the price point. Plus, the weight is perfect for year-round use: not too thick and and not too thin.

Sizes:24-36|Inseam:24 inches|Material:93% cotton, 5% elasterell-P, 2% spandex

PHOTO: People / Sonal PatelPHOTO: People / A. Burnett

Lee Legendary Boyfriend JeanPHOTO: Lee$43$37 at AmazonStar QualitiesEasy, relaxed fit, great for everyday wearDurable and comfortable denimRed FlagsThis “boyfriend” silhouette might not be for everyoneThe Legendary boyfriend jean from Lee delivers a great, comfortable fit that stood up to everyday errands and activities during our testing period. These jeans felt durable enough for more rigorous tasks like yardwork but also comfortable and soft enough for hanging out around the house.The inseam hit us in just the right spot but can also be unfolded for a longer look.Sizes:0-18|Inseam:28 inches (folded), 30 inches (unfolded)|Material:99% cotton, 1% elastanePEOPLE Tester in Lee Legendary Boyfriend Jean.People / Emerald Elitou

Lee Legendary Boyfriend JeanPHOTO: Lee$43$37 at Amazon

Lee Legendary Boyfriend Jean

PHOTO: Lee

$43$37 at Amazon

Star QualitiesEasy, relaxed fit, great for everyday wearDurable and comfortable denimRed FlagsThis “boyfriend” silhouette might not be for everyone

Star QualitiesEasy, relaxed fit, great for everyday wearDurable and comfortable denim

Easy, relaxed fit, great for everyday wear

Red FlagsThis “boyfriend” silhouette might not be for everyone

This “boyfriend” silhouette might not be for everyone

The Legendary boyfriend jean from Lee delivers a great, comfortable fit that stood up to everyday errands and activities during our testing period. These jeans felt durable enough for more rigorous tasks like yardwork but also comfortable and soft enough for hanging out around the house.

The inseam hit us in just the right spot but can also be unfolded for a longer look.

Sizes:0-18|Inseam:28 inches (folded), 30 inches (unfolded)|Material:99% cotton, 1% elastane

PEOPLE Tester in Lee Legendary Boyfriend Jean.People / Emerald Elitou

If you’re shopping for jeans for short women, you might also be interested in more of our PEOPLE-Tested fashion favorites, fromcomfortable heelstowhite tank tops.

Dr. Scholl’s Maya Block Heel Sandals$110$67 at Amazon$70 at Nordstrom$70 at ZapposChico’s Microfiber TankView on Chicos.comlululemon Wundermost Ultra-Soft Nulu Square-Neck Long-Sleeve Bodysuit$88 at LululemonJ.Crew New Classic Denim JacketView on J. Crew

Dr. Scholl’s Maya Block Heel Sandals$110$67 at Amazon$70 at Nordstrom$70 at Zappos

Dr. Scholl’s Maya Block Heel Sandals

$110$67 at Amazon$70 at Nordstrom$70 at Zappos

Chico’s Microfiber TankView on Chicos.com

Chico’s Microfiber Tank

View on Chicos.com

lululemon Wundermost Ultra-Soft Nulu Square-Neck Long-Sleeve Bodysuit$88 at Lululemon

lululemon Wundermost Ultra-Soft Nulu Square-Neck Long-Sleeve Bodysuit

$88 at Lululemon

J.Crew New Classic Denim JacketView on J. Crew

J.Crew New Classic Denim Jacket

View on J. Crew

What To Know About Petite Jeans

Petite Sizing

Hall recommends buying jeans from brands that provide petite 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.”

High-Rise Jeans

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 pants 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 cropped jeans that 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.”

PEOPLE Associate Shopping Director Erin Johnson (5'1") in Abercrombie Ultra High Rise 90s Straight Jean (Extra Short).People / Erin Johnson

People / Erin Johnson

We called in samples of some of the best-selling jeans for women currently on the market from the most popular denim brands. Our group of petite testers (5’ 4” and under) tried several pairs for multiple weeks observing and recording their insights throughout the wear and wash process. Each pair of jeans was tested and scored in the following categories:

PEOPLE Associate Shopping Director Erin Johnson (5'1") in Abercrombie Curve Love High Rise Straight Jeans (Extra Short).People / Erin Johnson

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccording 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.“Whether you’re looking for skinny jeans orwide-leg denim, 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.”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.”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).

Frequently Asked Questions

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.”

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.”

Whether you’re looking for skinny jeans orwide-leg denim, 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.”

Whether you’re looking for skinny jeans orwide-leg denim, 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.”

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.”

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.”

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).

Courtney Leivais a contributing writer for PEOPLE. Her work has appeared in The Daily Beast, Buzzfeed, HuffPost, InStyle, and more. For this piece, Courtney interviewed fashion expertsAlison Bruhn,Jamie Mitri,Claire Martinez,Rachel Newman,Kadeem Fyffe,Jennifer Michalski-Bray,Jasmine Snow,Christina Stein,Breyana Wright,Madeleine Hall,Diamond Ariel, andGrace Thomasfor 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.

L.A. Hubillais a writer for PEOPLE and a 5’ 3” denim lover. She also tests products for various digital platforms, including PEOPLE, InStyle, Byrdie, and Travel + Leisure, among others. For this article, she integrated insights from our petite-sized testers and evaluated whether each pair’s qualities and features were petite-friendly.

We created thePEOPLE Tested seal of approvalto help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

source: people.com