For those of us under 5′4″, getting our hands on clothing that fits well and doesn’t need to be tailored can be quite the challenge. It’s especially maddening when you’re a compulsive shopper, such as myself. Nothing makes me happier than the hit of serotonin I get when I buy clothes, but it’s often followed shortly thereafter by frustration when I realize that nothing is constructed to suit my petite 5′1″ frame.
Despite having a healthy Napoleonic complex, I’ve largely accepted my fate and enjoy the unexpected perks of being short, like being considered perenially adorable. But when it comes to buying pants, I can’t help but resent the entire process. Even though many brands claim to have extended sizing, petite clothing options remain extremely limited. Getting anything from blouses to dresses (and don’t get me started on jumpsuits) can be a trial when you’re short-statured, but few clothing items are as vexing, and necessary, as a good pair of pants.
I don’t know what I’d do without my trusty tailor, but I have to admit that I resent the fact that I am forced to spend extra money to make my clothes flattering. As a result, I tend to opt for cropped-style pants, since they generally end up looking full-length on my frame.
I’m ready for a wardrobe refresh and that includes a few fresh pair of pants. So I checked in with two devastatingly chic petite women who gave me the scoop not only on what they consider to be their favorite pants but also their favorite petite styling tricks and tips.
Petite style influencer Alisha Donnell emphasized the importance of knowing your measurements since it allows you to figure out if pants will fit — crucial when online shopping. She also recommends taking the time to read any available reviews before making purchases. Some of her favorite brands to shop for petite pants include Madewell, Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Athleta and Aritzia.
Donnell also noted that high-waisted pants can create the illusion of a longer leg, regardless of whether you go with cropped or full-length pants.
Actor Kate Easton is all about leaning into a raw hem. “If I order jeans and am either too lazy to return them or desperate to wear a new jean immediately, I’ll just cut the hem where it suits me (usually just above the ankle). I then rough up the hem a little by hitting the pant leg on a hard floor to loosen up the threads. It sounds aggressive, but it works!”
She’s particularly fond of the petite lines at Club Monaco, Madewell and Reformation, and agrees with Donnell that you can’t go wrong with a high-waisted silhouette. She always recommends a wide-leg pant that hits at the ankle.
Keep reading to take a peek at Easton’s, Donnell’s and my favorite picks for pants for petite women. There’s something for every style and each pair is as cute and flattering as the one before.
HuffPost receives a share from retailers on this page. Every item is independently selected by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.
Banana Republic petite Rivoli corduroy pants
Corduroy pants are ideal for chilly weather, adding not only warmth but texture and visual interest as well. They'll never go out of style. Available in three colors in sizes 00 to 14, these elegant pants are perfectly proportioned and effortlessly cool. Plus, a wide-leg fit is always a good idea.
Loft pull-on tapered pants
Loft has a great selection of petite pants, including these pull on taper pants. They're made with brushed flannel that is soft, cozy and warm without feeling stiff or sweat-inducing. Available in sizes XXS to L, these heather grey pants are perfect for the office and comfortable enough to run in on errands day.
Promising review: "Cute and functional. These pants are so comfortable! I am a petite/curvy body type and I bought these in a Large, hoping to find a comfortable pair of pants for my job as a teacher. These more than met the mark! They fit great and are cute as well. They suit my body type in a flattering way without cutting into my belly at the waist. I just ordered them in black and olive as well." — SarahBa
Reformation petite Vesta pant
If you love a Katherine Hepburn-esque, menswear inspired fit, then you have to pick up these Reformation pants. They'll give the appearance of long lines, comes in three lovely colors and is made of the softest linen. It's available in sizes 0P to 12P.
A pair of vintage-style white jeans
The petite version of Madewell's popular Perfect Vintage collection is a must for all of us. They're beautifully constructed, with a classic high-fitted waist and slouchy wide legs that are structured with a broken-in feel. Easton is a huge fan of white jeans for spring, and it doesn't get much better than these. Just keep your
Tide pen handy!
A pair of relaxed wide leg pants
These Stradivarius pants from ASOS boast all the necessary details for a drop-dead gorgeous look. They have a high rise and pleat details that are juxtaposed nicely with the relaxed fit, so you look cool and put together all at once. They're selling out fast, so get over there and pick up a pair while you can!
Levi's ribcage jeans
Levi's ribcage ankle jeans are a must for those with petite figures. Both Easton and I live in ours, and the range of colors, lengths and hems make it possible for you to get the one that best fits your own aesthetic.
Promising review: "Great fit! I bought these last week, and I'm already in love! I love the way the high rise accentuates my curves. I bought two washes, and both fit well." — Grayson
A pair of classic chinos
I have a pair of these chinos and plan on living in them all spring and summer. They are full-length on me, and I usually roll them up once or twice depending on what style I want and what shoes I am wearing. They're comfy, look cool and always garner compliments. I'd recommend sizing down for a higher waist look, and keeping your regular size if you prefer a low-slung vibe. I have them in navy, but they come in three other colors as well.
Club Monaco enamel ring pants
These cropped pants from Club Monaco are super flattering for those of us with shorter legs. They are available in a range of colors and cut a stylish silhouette. They're sure to become your work go-to's!
A pair of lightweight wide-leg pants
For soft pants that look and feel like work pants, try Athleta's beautiful Nolita pants. They're available in three colors, petite sizing and made of silky sleek recycled polyester with a comfy and flattering waistband. These versatile pants are just as good for a day at the office as they are for a loungey, lazy afternoon at home.
A pair of cool barrel-style pants
Banana Republic's petite barrel pants are ever-so slouchy and relaxed while still feeling tailored and put together. If you're a high-rise devotee then size down, or grab your regular size for an ultra-relaxed mid-rise fit for a sexy, lower-strung fit.
A pair of split hem pants
The split hem look remains solidly in style as we charge into winter, and these petite-sized beauties from Reformation make it possible for the petite among us to partake in this chic look. They have a slim fit, straight cut and high rise waist that looks good on every soul on Earth.
A pair of cropped seersuckers
How sweet are these Aritzia pants? The cropped length and high waist couldn't be more flattering on petite figures, and the textured Japanese seersucker fabric has a hint of stretch that is comfortable and won't overheat you during the warm seasons ahead.
