Pants are hands-down my hardest clothing category to shop for. As a five-foot-tall short queen, I’ve cuffed and cut countless hems all my life, collected platform shoes to offset too-long legs, and, admittedly, even sifted through the kid’s sections of thrift stores to find denim that fits my frame. Clearly, I have a habit of making things harder for myself, so it’s high time I elevated my arsenal with jeans that are actually designed for me.

For spring, I’m craving ease from wide-leg, barrel-leg, or bootcut silhouettes. Along with wearable statement pieces in muted colors and trending textures, these will infuse fresh inspiration into my outfit rotation. Below, shop the eight petite denim styles I’m ordering ASAP, including items from editor-loved brands like Everlane, Levi’s, Abercrombie, and more. 

8 Petite Jeans

Everlane The Way-High Curve Jeans

It’s so rare to find barrel jeans with the correct proportions for petite frames. Everlane offers its popular Way-High Curve Jeans in a 27-inch inseam, with a high-rise waistline and hem that hits right at the ankle. One “obsessed” shopper under five-foot-two said, “I thought it was impossible to find a pair of baggy jeans that worked for my short legs, big butt, and smaller waist, but here they are.” She added they don’t look like she’s “swimming in them, and they’re just so darn flattering.” 

Madewell The Perfect Vintage High-Waist Crop Wide-Leg Jeans

With warmer weather comes the re-introduction of a seasonal staple: white jeans. It’s a style that relies on clean lines and cuff-less hems to really make a quiet statement, so it’s worth investing in your best-fitting length. Madewell is always a safe bet for high-quality denim, and this vintage-inspired, wide-leg silhouette is an easy choice for everyday wear. They’ll maintain a structured look at the waist even after hours of wear, but a hint of stretch in the fabric adds essential comfort. 

Abercrombie Curve Love High-Rise ‘90s Relaxed Jeans

Abercrombie is a great source for petite-cut jeans because they come in both short and extra-short sizes—a godsend for shoppers who are five feet tall and below, like I am. The Curve Love denim line is also ideal for those who require more room through the hips and thighs. The High-Rise ‘90s Relaxed Jeans are one of the brand’s most popular styles, due to their looser, slightly baggy fit, soft-stretch fabric, and a wide array of wash options. 

Gap Mid-Rise ’90s Loose Cheetah Cargo Jeans

I love leaning into cargo styles in the spring, and this find from Gap marries the staple with a trendy leopard print. It’s complete with all the utilitarian details, like bonus pockets, side straps, and a relaxed-fitted leg. Consider it a neutral statement to elevate super simple basics like chunky sweaters or basic tees. Or, its streetwear vibe can transition to night with sleek heels and a form-fitting bodysuit.   

Below, shop more of my top petite denim picks, including trendy bootcut jeans from Levi’s and muted pops of color from Wit & Wisdom. 

Levi’s Women’s 725 High-Rise Bootcut Jeans

Pilcro The Kit High-Rise Wide-Leg Utility Trouser Jeans

J.Crew Wide-Leg Distressed Jeans

Wit & Wisdom ‘Ab’Solution Frayed High-Waist Ankle Flare Jeans