Being a petite fashion editor (so you have my vital stats, I’m 5’ 3.5” and an hourglass UK 12), I've discovered a game-changing solution on how I can embrace the wide-leg trouser trend that’s been so prevalent this season. Try as I may—and believe me, I’ve tried—I’ve never found the right wide-leg trouser for me. They’re always far, far too long, throwing my portions way off and, although nipping to the tailor would be my usual solution to this issue, I have just moved to a village which is without one such seamstress. While this styling tip for petite women is often my go-to, I set about trying to unearth an alternative, and I think I’ve just found it.
Of course, you may also be petite and have managed to find wide-leg trousers that tick your boxes— if you've found this miracle purchase, please send me links at @maxineeggenberger. However, for me, I worked out that the way I can take on the wide-leg trouser trend and still feel confident in myself is to wear a cropped wide-leg trouser instead. I know, this hardly sounds like a groundbreaking revelation but hear me out—it may just work for you too.
I’ve found that wide-leg cropped trousers works like magic in terms of creating a well-proportioned look. The key is to find the right balance between the width of the leg and the crop, ensuring a sleek but still wide-leg silhouette. The cropped length also allows for a chic shoe moment, too, as your footwear will be on full display.
But really, as is the case with traditional wide-leg trousers, beauty of wide-leg cropped trousers lies in their versatility. They can be dressed up or down, making them perfect for various occasions. Pair them with a fitted blouse and heels for an elegant evening ensemble, or opt for a casual vibe with an oversize tee and sneakers. The possibilities are endless.
If you’re petite or are yet to find a wide-leg trouser that speaks to you, don’t disregard a cropped style. To drive my point home, I’ve assembled an edit of my favourites for you below, along with some foolproof styling suggestions.
The Best Wide-Leg Cropped Trousers for Petites:
- Best Wide-Leg Cropped Trouser: H&M Cropped Pull-On Trousers, £15
- Best High Street Wide-Leg Cropped Trouser: & Other Stories Cropped Tailored Trousers, £77
- Best Affordable Wide-Leg Cropped Trouser: Zara High-Waist Culotte Trousers, £30
- Best Luxury Wide-Leg Cropped Trouser: COS Leather Barrel-Leg Culottes, £400
- Best Denim Wide-Leg Cropped Trouser: Reiss Paige Wide-Leg Cropped Jeans in Black, £280
6 Chic Wide-Leg Cropped Trouser Outfit Ideas for Petites:
Don't disregard monochromatic styles—inject some colour through a statement shoe or contrasting top and you'll look instantly chic.
French fashion muse, Sylvie Mus, also proves the power of accenting your waist with a belt to create more length.
A very cool spring workwear or dinner outfit.
Add a top in a matching hue à la Monikh Dale.
I always gravitate towards matching sets.
Cropped wide-leg trousers look beautiful peaking out from underneath trench coats.
Shop the Best Wide-Leg Cropped Trousers for Petites:
It's linen trouser season and this Reformation iteration is designed specifically for petites.
You'll never want to take these pants off.
This deep rust colour is a beautiful antidote to pastel spring colours.
The pop of red trend reigns for another season.
The shape on these feel so elegant.
These come in so many sizes.
How gorgeous is this chocolate leather?
Pair with a strappy sandal for the ultimate effortless ensemble.
This gingham iteration from Sézane is perfect for spring.
Cropped jeans are perfect for a more put-together look.
Create the illusion of length with strappy ballet flats.
I love the technical details of this style.
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