I’m 5’0″—These Are the Only Jeans That Get My Petite Approval

I’m 5’0″—These Are the Only Jeans That Get My Petite Approval


As a fashion person who stands (proudly) at only 5’0”, I thought I would always have to hem my bottoms, even jeans. In high school and college, I would often shop in the little boys’ section, as the options there were the only bottoms that would fit my thighs and hit my ankle just right. Well, that didn’t last long; post–frontal lobe development and second puberty wouldn’t allow it. After a few years of learning what fits my small and curvier stature, I started shopping smart. Hemming every pair of bottoms, especially jeans, is 1) very expensive and 2) very tedious.

Lately, trying on jeans in-store hasn’t felt like such a chore but rather an adventure. I encourage everyone who isn’t super comfy in their bodies, petite or otherwise, to change their mindset to this; it eases the process. Finding the perfect pair of jeans can be discouraging, but I’ve discovered seven go-to pairs that fit my small frame. I’ve been on the hunt for years, and now that I’ve finally found some that work for me, it’s only right to share with my fellow petite fashion lovers and connoisseurs. Keep scrolling through to find your petite-friendly jeans, ranging from bootcut to wide-leg.

The Best Wide-Leg Jeans

Old Navy is an underrated brand for all things petite bottoms. This pair of mid-rise, wide-leg jeans is my most-worn. They’re soft to the touch but have lasted me almost two years, so the quality is no issue. This pair is very fall-friendly. I wore them all fall last year with my trench coats and lightweight sweaters.

(Image credit: Kerane Marcellus)

The Best Affordable Jeans

GU, Uniqlo’s little sister, makes another very affordable pair of jeans that I turn to on days when I want a loose, laid-back fit. I tend to wear this pair with my T-shirts and jackets like below. This pair is lightweight while still sturdy and features pleats at the front, which adds some chic dimension to an outfit. I do cuff this pair, but I think it looks even better this way.

A woman wearing a blue jacket and baggy jeans

(Image credit: Kerane Marcellus)

The Best Barrel Jeans