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.
Loft kick flair pants
It used to be that Loft was considered a bit frumpy, but that is definitely no longer the case. Its selection of super stylish, incredibly on-trend clothing that is wearable and perfect for all manner of situations is as good as it gets. Case in point: these stunning kick flair pants. Available in regular, tall and petite lengths, these pants are a dream — and you can wear them from the playground to the office with ease.
A pair of classic chinos
Everyone needs a good pair of chinos, they're versatile and easy to style. These petite pants from Boden are comfy, look cool and will be sure to garner compliments. They're designed to be slim through the waist and hip, with an always-on-trend straight leg construction. These chinos available in a range of colors in sizes 0-22.
A pair of structured J.Crew jeans
For a polished jeans option, take a peek at these sophisticated J.Crew jeans. They have a high-rise waist and the classic barrel jean bow-shaped leg, but it doesn't look too youthful or clown-y. The side-seam detailing adds a lot of structure and refinement, while the dark wash makes them instantly chic and wearable. You can get them in classic, petite and tall silhouettes in sizes 23-37 — we can always count on J.Crew.
A pair of stretchy, lightweight slacks
HuffPost reader-beloved Amazon staple brand Baleaf has done it again with a pair of everyday slacks that are versatile, comfortable and easy to style. The cropped ankle makes them perfect for petite people, while the lightweight, silky smooth fabric feels nice against the skin. It has a UPF 50+ UV protection rating, an elastic waistband and hidden drawcord and a split hem that could even make you look taller. You can get these in a range of colors in sizes XS-3XL.
A pair of petite pull-on pants from ASOS
As comfortable as they are cool, these pull-on plaid pants from ASOS are perfect for fall. Wear them at home or dress them up and hit the town, either way, they'll look stylish and feel like you're in pajamas. You can get them in sizes 0-14.
Loft pull-on tapered pants
Loft has a great selection of petite pants, including these pull on barrel pants. They're made with cotton fabric that is soft, cozy and comfy without feeling stiff or sweat-inducing. Available in two colors sizes XXS to XXL, these pants are perfect for the office and comfortable enough to run around 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
A pair of lightweight wide-leg pants
For soft pants with a perfectly sporty vibe, try Athleta's beautiful Venice pants. They're available in a range of colors, petite sizing and made of lightweight stretchy fabric 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 polished, old-school jeans
These Madewell jeans are reminiscent of Carolyn Bessett's minimalist, Calvin Klein-forward style. These are a great option for anyone who is curious about barrel leg jeans-style but wants a more refined, subtle silhouette. They have a slight '90s slouch but can easily be dressed up and are office-appropriate and tailored. You can get them in a few different denim washes in standard, petite and tall lengths in sizes 23-33, so shorties like us know they'll fit perfectly.
A pair of split hem pants
The split hem look remains solidly in style, 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.
Levi's ribcage jeans
Levi's ribcage ankle jeans are a must for those with petite figures. Both actor Kate 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
Club Monaco enamel ring pants
These cropped pants from Club Monaco are super flattering for those of us with shorter legs. They are available black and cut a stylish silhouette. They're sure to become your work go-tos!