Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we may earn a commission from our partners’ links. This content is created independently from TIME’s editorial staff. Learn more about it.
If you’re a petite woman like me, you know that every millimeter counts. Whether it’s a heel, the length of a skirt, or the tailoring to get the perfect hem on a pair of jeans, the right fit is essential to those of us under 5’4”. But being petite is just one factor in finding the fit of your perfect jeans. We found the best pairs of jeans designed specifically for petite women so you can find the fit that’s right for you.
How to choose the best jeans for petite women
The inseam
Most people under 5’ 4” will want to opt for an inseam between 25 - 27 inches. Go even shorter if you’re under five feet. The inseam also varies by leg length, so pay attention to how the jeans fit you at the hip, knee, and ankle.
The rise
This is a personal choice based on comfort and aesthetics. Low-rise jeans hit well below the navel, around 7 to 8 inches from the crotch. Mid-rise qualifies as 8 to 10 inches and high-rise is 10 inches or above.
The cut
Boyfriend or Mom jeans have a boxier, more relaxed fit while skinny and straight-leg jeans are more fitted. Flare and bootcut jeans fit right between with a curvier hip and flared lower leg.
The wash
Blue jeans can come in many shades of indigo, such as light denim, medium denim, or dark denim. They come in other washes as well, like black, gray, white, ecru, or colors like pink and purple.
Our top picks for the best jeans for petite women
Best budget jeans for petite women: Everlane The Original Cheeky® Jean
Everlane The Original Cheeky® Jean
Everlane jeans are a fave among influencers for their of-the-moment designs and easy-on-your-wallet price point. For just under $100, you can grab these high-waisted and flattering jeans in the 26.5-inch length. One petite reviewer wrote, “Love these jeans! Fabric and color work year around, and I went for the cropped length, which is perfect for my 5’4” frame. Don’t stretch much with wear, either. Highly recommend!”
Specifications:
- Size range: 23 - 35
- Rise: 11.75 inches
- Material: 98% organic cotton, 2% elastane
- Inseam length: 26.5, 28.5, or 30.5 inches
- Price: $98
What we like:
- Organic cotton
- Comfortable women’s jeans that hold their shape
What we don’t like:
- 26.5 is the shortest inseam offered; those under five feet might need more altering.
The bottom line:
Everlane jeans are beloved for their function, design, and affordability.
Get it here: Everlane The Original Cheeky® Jean
Best high-waisted jeans for petite women: Good American Soft-Tech Good Petite Bootcut Jeans
Good American Soft-Tech Good Petite Bootcut Jeans
The masterminds behind Good American jeans (Khloe Kardashian and Emme Grede) have declared, "Fashion should be made to fit women, not the other way around." The line has been particularly popular among plus-size, curvy, and petite sizes for years. These high-waisted, petite bootcut jeans have a slim design with a raw hem.
Specifications:
- Size range: 00 - 32 Plus
- Rise: 10 inches
- Material: 93% cotton, 5% polyester, 2% lycra
- Inseam length: 30 inches
- Price: $149
What we like:
- “Body-hugging, booty shaping” design
- Dart details on the back for a gap-prevention waistband
What we don’t like:
- Good American jeans sell out quickly.
The bottom line:
Fans love these high-waisted jeans from the celebrity duo brand that are specifically suited for the petite set.
Get it here: Good American Soft-Tech Good Petite Bootcut Jeans
Best cropped jeans for petite women: Anthropologie The Colette Denim Cropped Wide-Leg Jeans by Maeve
The Colette Denim Cropped Wide-Leg Jeans by Maeve
Anthropologie has been a standard for petites for a long time, and their jeans leave us satisfied, too. These wide-leg crops have 4.5 stars on the Anthro site, with over 380 reviews (pics, too!), so you know they’re good. One reviewer said: “First off, the fit: I’m 5’2”, 108 lbs. I wear a 25 shirt or ankle in Mother, AG, Paige, 7 for All Mankind. Based on the reviews, I bought a 24 petite, and they are nothing short of perfect. The most comfortable jeans I own. So soft I forget to put on my pajamas. :) Run, don’t walk. Buy them!”
Specifications:
- Size range: 23 - 34
- Rise: 12.25 inches
- Material: 81% cotton, 11% lyocell, 6% elastomultiester, 2% elastane
- Inseam length: 24 inches
- Price: $130
What we like:
- Petite sizes hit at just the right spot
What we don’t like:
- Many reported that there was too much stretch and they wished the jeans kept their form more.
The bottom line:
A perfect pair of cropped jeans that actually look cropped on petites.
Get it here: Anthropologie The Colette Denim Cropped Wide-Leg Jeans by Maeve
Best low-rise jeans for petite women: HUDSON Women's The Petite Barbara
HUDSON Women's Petite, Obscurity, 27
Hudson is a trusted brand in denim, dedicated to offering specific styles for those who need great fit and tailoring. These Barbara jeans deliver, as well. One petite reviewer posted: ”Thank you thank you for still making petite style jeans! I’m only 5’ 4” and finding pants that don’t drag the ground or sit below my knee is difficult. These fit me perfectly and the same Hudson quality that I remember from 10 years ago remains.”
Specifications:
- Size range: 23 - 33
- Rise: 8.25 inches
- Material: 57% cotton, 37% modal, 4% elastomultiester, 2% elastane
- Inseam length: 26 inches
- Price: $93.60 - $225.00
What we like:
- Slim, contour fit with a gently flared leg
- Available in four finishes
What we don’t like:
- Might cause color transfer
The bottom line:
A flattering low-rise jean that fits petites well.
Get it here: HUDSON Women's The Petite Barbara
Best skinny jeans for petite women: Banana Republic Mid-Rise Skinny Jean
Mid-Rise Skinny Jean
Banana Republic offers a plethora of styles in various lengths and has a "What's My Size" feature to help you choose the best one for you. This vintage stretch denim hugs your body with its skinny jean design, offering enough freedom to move comfortably.
Specifications:
- Size range: 25 - 35
- Rise: 9.75 inches
- Material: 92% cotton, 6% recycled polyester, 2% elastane
- Inseam length: 26 inches
- Price: $67.99
What we like:
- Fun, modern cut with a vintage finish
- Raw hem at ankle
What we don’t like:
- Only comes in one finish
The bottom line:
These perfect skinny jeans are a timeless classic from a brand that petites have loved for years.
Get it here: Banana Republic Mid-Rise Skinny Jean
Best stretchy jeans for petite women: Wit & Wisdom Jeggings in Petite
These refined, stretchy jeggings look like traditional denim but feel like you're wearing tights. Their slim fit makes them perfect for slipping into boots, and they have light whiskering at the top to give that lived-in look.
Specifications:
- Size range: 00P - 18P
- Rise: 9 inches
- Material: 54% rayon, 27% cotton, 17% polyester, 2% spandex
- Inseam length: 27.5 inches
- Price: $74
What we like:
- These skinny-leg jeggings give you all the comfort.
What we don’t like:
- Reviewers mentioned the fabric wearing down over time.
The bottom line:
Get the look of skinny jeans with the comfort of leggings with these jeggings in a petite size.
Get it here: Wit & Wisdom Jeggings in Petite
Best straight-leg jeans for petite women: Democracy “Ab”solution® Petite Straight Leg Jean
Democracy “Ab”solution® Petite Straight Leg Jean
Democracy Jeans make a modern, classic style denim and their “Ab”solution® line is no exception. The six-pocket style promises to lift your booty and have a no-gap waistband. Best of all? The petite cut is available in eight (!) finishes, so you can get them in whatever color you like.
Specifications:
- Size range: 2P - 16P
- Rise: 9 inches
- Material: 60% cotton, 31% polyester, 7% rayon, 2% spandex
- Inseam length: 29 inches
- Price: $78
What we like:
- Sweetheart back yoke
- Tummy control panel
- Slim hips and thighs area with a relaxed leg that isn’t too wide
What we don’t like:
- Some reviewers suggest sizing down
The bottom line:
A solid choice for straight leg jeans made in petite sizes and eight finishes.
Get it here: Democracy “Ab”solution® Petite Straight Leg Jean
Best flared jeans for petite women: AE Next Level Curvy Super High-Waisted Flare Jean
AE Next Level Curvy Super High-Waisted Flare Jean Women's Iced Light Indigo 6 Short
These jeans are made of AE’s softest, stretchiest denim that promises never to lose its shape. As a bonus, they come in two washes: Iced Light Indigo and Classic Medium. Average reviews of 4.6/5 stars suggest you snag them both.
Specifications:
- Size range: 2 - 20
- Rise: 11 inches
- Material: Classic Medium wash: 71% cotton, 26% recycled polyester, 3% elastane. Iced Light Indigo wash: 75% cotton, 12% recycled polyester, 6% viscose, 5% recycled cotton, 2% elastane
- Inseam length: 30 inches
- Price: $35.97
What we like:
- Soft denim with great stretch
- Flattering high-waist
What we don’t like:
- Some reports of color transfer
The bottom line:
These festival-ready flared jeans are soft, stretchy and just the right length.
Get it here: AE Next Level Curvy Super High-Waisted Flare Jean
Best bootcut jeans for petite women: Gap Mid Rise Baby Boot Jeans with Washwell
Mid Rise Baby Boot Jeans
A full bootcut jean can be overwhelming on a petite frame, so we’re so grateful for the “baby boot’ style from the Gap. With a streamlined bell at the bottom, these hit right at the ankle. One online reviewer wrote: “I purchased the short version of these jeans, and I love them. The flare is subtle, and the length is perfect. I love the wash color and the feel of the fabric.”
Specifications:
- Size range: 24 Short - 31 Short
- Rise: 7 - 8 inches
- Material: 86% cotton, 7% polyester, 5% recycled cotton, 2% elastane
- Inseam length: 29 - 29.5 inches
- Price: $34.99
What we like:
- Strong stretch denim in three different washes
- Made with Gap’s environment-focused Washwell method
What we don’t like:
- Mixed reviews on fit and length
The bottom line:
Gap’s streamlined bootcut style creates the perfect flare ratio for petite heights.
Get it here: Gap Mid Rise Baby Boot Jeans with Washwell
Best Mom jeans for petite women: Levi’s Wedgie Straight Fit Women’s Jeans
Levi's Wedgie Straight Fit Women's Jeans 24x28
Is it even a denim roundup if we’re not mentioning Levi’s Wedgie jeans? Luckily for petites, the iconic denim line has a version that works well. The Levi’s Wedgie Straight Fit Women’s Jeans comes in three inseam lengths but the shorter two—26-inch and 28-inch—give most petites the option of ankle-length or cropped.
Specifications:
- Size range: 23 - 34
- Rise: 10.87 inches
- Material: 99% organic cotton, 1% elastane
- Inseam length: 26, 28, and 30 inches
- Price: $58.98
What we like:
- Classic Levi’s style
- Popular denim line with the blogger set
- Come in three finishes
What we don’t like:
- Might be too snug in the hip for some
The bottom line:
Choose your length on these petite-friendly versions of the beloved Levi’s Wedgie jeans.
Get it here: Levi’s Wedgie Straight Fit Women’s Jeans
Best splurge jeans for petite women: MOTHER The Dazzler Mid-Rise Straight Jeans
The Dazzler Mid-Rise Straight Jeans
People swear by MOTHER jeans. The high-end L.A. denim maker has a fan base that says their denim is worth every penny. One reviewer wrote, “I have been on the hunt for a straight leg jean that does not require alteration, and I was very pleased to finally find these! I am 5’ 2”, 120 lbs, and the 27P is a perfect length to wear with flats or tennis shoes. The material is heaven, and I love the wash.”
Specifications:
- Size range: 23 - 34
- Rise: 9.75 inches
- Material: 94% cotton, 5% polyester, 1% elastane
- Inseam length: 25.5 inches
- Price: $258
What we like:
- Flattering cut with the perfect amount of stretch
What we don’t like:
- The price
The bottom line:
This cult favorite now offers petite sizes, so shorties can rave about the $250 jeans too.
Get it here: MOTHER The Dazzler Mid-Rise Straight Jeans
Best curvy jeans for petite women: Silver Jeans Co. Women's Britt Low Rise Curvy Fit Slim Bootcut Jeans
Silver Jeans Co. Women's Britt Low Rise Curvy Fit Slim Bootcut Jeans, Med Wash SDK394, 28W x 31L
The fashion universe loves to believe a woman has one fit goal. If she’s tall, she couldn’t also want a generous waistband. If she’s petite, she couldn’t also be curvy. Thankfully, Silver Jeans Co. knows women come in all sizes, and the Britt Jeans are for those of you who want to flaunt your curves. One review said: “These jeans are so flattering. I am 5’ 2”, 126 and bought the 27 [x 31]. They were perfect with a medium heel boot. I was afraid of color transfer and washed them first and did not get shrinkage. I ordered a second pair!!”
Specifications:
- Size range: 24W x 33L - 36W x 33L
- Rise: 8.25 inches
- Material: 92% cotton, 1% polyester, 1% elastane
- Inseam length: 31 inches (this is the shortest)
What we like:
- Roomier in the thigh
- Available in six washes
What we don’t like:
- Some reviewers say these run a bit small.
The bottom line:
The perfect jeans for those at the cross-section of petite and curvy.
Get it here: Silver Jeans Co. Women's Britt Low Rise Curvy Fit Slim Bootcut Jeans
Best plus size jeans for petite women: Universal Standard Seine High-Rise Skinny Jeans Petite: Dark Indigo
Universal Standard Seine High-Rise Skinny Jeans Petite: Dark Indigo
Universal Standard’s best-selling jean is now available in petite lengths. These jeans are particularly well-rated by plus-size women for their fit and comfort. The high-rise, well-structured jeans are flattering and comfortable.
Specifications:
- Size range: 00 – 40
- Rise: 8 - 15.5 inches
- Material: 73% cotton, 23% polyester, 4% elastane
- Inseam length: 24 inches
- Price: $35
What we like:
- These come in seven finishes—five blue and two black!
What we don’t like:
- Some reviewers say these run short, so consider sizing up one to two sizes.
The bottom line:
The best-selling Seine jeans are now available in petite lengths up to size 40.
Get it here: Universal Standard Seine High-Rise Skinny Jeans Petite: Dark Indigo
How we selected the best jeans for petite women
We researched thousands of online reviews and recommendations from stylists, fashion influencers, and designers to find the best women’s jeans made specifically for petites. To make our list, there must be a strong record of positive reviews, repeated media mentions, and a history of word-of-mouth recommendations from petite fashionistas like you.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What does “petite” mean in jeans?
Petite sizes are designed for women 5 feet 4 inches and under, but it’s not just about cutting the hem shorter. Petite jeans raise the waist, hip, knee, and hem to fit a shorter profile. Petite sizes aim to fit smaller frames in a more balanced way.
What type of jeans look best on petite women?
Finding petite pants that fit comfortably and accentuate your figure in the right way can be challenging. Being petite is just one part of your fit profile, so here are a few things to consider. Skinny cuts that elongate the figure are popular among petite women as they can create a more extended look with a mid-rise or high-rise waist. When wearing skinny jeans, ensure the knee area aligns with your natural bend. A baggy knee makes jeans look ill-fitting.
A petite boot cut jean emphasizes the hips and creates an hourglass figure for those with an athletic figure. The curviness in the boot cut adds contour to the frame.
More baggy style, or “Mom jeans,” work well for medium- and large-build petites. If you’re very slight, the bagginess might overwhelm your frame, so opt for more streamlined cuts. On the other hand, curvier or broader types might look quite streamlined in Mom-style jeans. The high waist is also known to create a flatter midsection.
What is the best jeans length for petite women?
Best length varies by person. Some people like denim hemmed right at the ankle, while others look best with a cropped look. Lengthening the leg will make you look taller, so consider a hemline beneath the ankle bone with a pointy-toe flat, wedge shoe, or high heel.
What is the difference between short and petite jeans?
Short jeans simply shorten the hemline, while petite jeans balance the decrease in size at the hem, waistline, and sometimes thigh area. If you prefer a regular cut with a shorter hem, you can alter your jeans or buy a “short” length.
Can petites wear high-waisted jeans?
Yes, and as a matter of fact, they are often very flattering. Raising the waist gives the illusion of a longer leg. However, you might look more balanced with mid-rise or low-rise jeans if you have a shorter torso and longer legs.
The information presented here is created independently from the TIME editorial staff. To learn more, see our About page.