Mastering the technique of finding the right inseam and rise will go a long way when it comes to shopping for petite jeans. First, the inseam. That’s the measurement from your inner thigh to ankle; if you’re short, that’s is likely around 25 to 31 inches. “Normally when styling petite people, I measure the inside of a client’s leg to their ankle, but it’s important to note that everyone’s bodies are different, so everyone will have a specific inseam, depending on their body,” says fashion stylist Zoe Gofman. We recommend buying a fabric tape measure so you can know your exact measurements when shopping online.
Inseams are important because the wrong length can make your legs look shorter or require alterations, says Christensen. And something else to note: You’ll want to look for different inseams based on the style that you’re going for as well. Her advice: “If you want cropped jeans, look for inseams between 24″ and 26″, as they’ll hit around the ankle or slightly above, which elongates the legs. For classic full-length (wide-leg or bootcut) jeans, opt for 27″ to 29″ to prevent the jeans from dragging on the ground. Finally, if you’re shopping for skinny jeans, look for a 26″ to 28″ inseam that will fall just above or at the ankle for a streamlined fit.”
The rise of the jean will also make a difference when it comes to how flattering your petite jeans are. “High-rise jeans are especially flattering on petite frames, as they create the illusion of longer legs and a defined waist,” says Christensen. But mid-rise jeans can also work on petite bodies, especially if you prefer a more relaxed fit. Christensen recommends avoiding low-rise jeans if you’re on the petite side, as these can make you appear shorter.
