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Gina Marinelli
For women whose height is somewhere in the neighborhood of 5’4” and under, you’re probably very familiar with two petite denim solutions: cuffing a hemline and finding a great tailor. These are the primary ways to ensure a pair of jeans fits your frame when the inseam is better suited for someone four inches taller than you. But we can assure you that it’s possible to find perfect-fit denim right off the rack—no alterations or excessive folding necessary.
There are tons of denim brands that offer multiple inseam options for their collections, as well as petite-specific styles. And with fall denim season quickly approaching, we sourced 12 stand-out examples that will fit like a dream while also satisfying your taste for diverse silhouettes and washes. Among them include light-wash, vintage-inspired pairs that sit high at the waist, skinny jeans that won't bunch with extra fabric around your ankles, and modern, wide-leg styles that will crop in the right place. Below, explore the best petite jeans for this fall and many more seasons to follow.
Madewell, a leader in denim, has a healthy selection of petite-jean styles to choose from. Our favorite by far is this '90s mom jeans silhouette that has a comfortable high rise and the slightest hint of stretch.
These timeless, dark-wash skinnies are a wardrobe staple from Universal Standard, a brand that offers inclusive sizing across the board, including for those of different inseam lengths.
We love the light distressing and raw hemline of these Gap petite jeans. Should you need to D.I.Y. and cut off an extra inch or two off the hemline, this kind of unfinished hem is very easy to work with.
AYR offers four different inseam-length options—not many other brands do—including for its bestselling Chiller style. Looking for slim-fit jeans in lived-in wash? This is it.
It can be challenging to find flare jeans for a petite person without the wide fabric drowning your feet, but this style by Pilcro makes '70s denim goals a reality,
Are you petite and hate the feeling of overly stretchy jeans? These 100% cotton pairs by Denim Forum are the pants you'll love breaking in.
It's time to replace the black jeans you've worn so much that they're starting to fade to gray. Look no further than Everlane's super comfortable skinnies.
Whether you style these Good American jeans with sneakers or heels, the hemline will hit right at the perfect ankle spot.
If your denim preference is all about comfort and stretch, try American Eagle for affordable options that are also available in a wide range of sizes.
Move over slim-fit denim, DL1961's relaxed, wide-leg jeans are going to become the new, reach-for-them-every-morning denim silhouette.
These Topshop skinny jeans are as comfortable and versatile as your favorite black leggings.
If you're interested in elongating your petite frame, try sleek NYDJ straight-leg jeans with any pointed-toe shoes.