Wide leg pants are everywhere for spring and summer. So today, I going to talk about how to wear wide leg pants especially if you are petite. However, this post is a good guide for anyone who may be on the fence about this style.
When the wide leg style first appeared in jeans, I immediately said no way to this fashion trend. As someone who is petite (I’m 5’2″), I thought they would add too much bulk that I certainly don’t need at this stage in midlife. And I went with the popular opinion that they would make me look shorter than I already am. I really hoped this style would not be readily accepted.
However, that didn’t happen. There is now no denying that wide leg pants and jeans will be sticking around for a little while. I certainly don’t have to wear a style if it doesn’t suit me, or I simply don’t like it (and neither should you). But here on the blog, I feel I do need to address some of the more popular clothing items selling in stores. After all, this is a fashion blog!
Plus, my motto is don’t be a slave to fashion trends but do watch them. And add ones you love here and there to your wardrobe to keep it modern looking, whatever your personal style aesthetic may be.
So, I started looking for wide leg pants and thinking about how you can wear them especially if you’re petite. I’m going to share a few tips at the end of the post on that specific topic. If you are a little taller, some of these tips may work for you too!
I also think I hit the jackpot with the first pair of wide leg pants I ordered! I am really impressed with the pants I’m styling for this post – I’m usually not this lucky.
I’ve ordered a lot of things from Loft recently and had great success. It is one of my go to stores for casual outfits that fit my casual lifestyle. These pants were a great find!
I ordered up one size in a petite which I normally do. I have a really short, thick waist, so my pants size in a petite is often a little tight verses a regular size. I do not like my pants too tight!
When I first put these ankle length wide leg pants on, they were quite different compared to all the straight leg styles I’ve been wearing. It actually didn’t take long for me to adjust though. I really love how these look, and they are super comfortable.
I believe they are a great alternative to shorts and feel like they will be really cool in warm weather.
I played around with shoe styles – wearing a flat slide above and digging out an old wedge sandal from my closet for the pictures below. I believe I can easily wear either style shoe with them.
These pants come in a couple of colors, but I love the green for spring and summer. They are also available in regular and tall sizes too.
Here are some tips for how to wear wide leg pants if you’re petite….
First, it’s important to get a good fit. Look for petite sizes and short lengths if they don’t have petite sizing. Getting the correct length and fit everywhere else is crucial, so you aren’t overwhelmed by too much material.
Second, check the size of the leg opening if it’s listed. There are pants that are wide, wider, and even wider. If you are smaller, you can get the wide leg look with a smaller leg opening.
Third, pick a solid color. While patterns and florals are cute for summer, they made be too busy for smaller frames and add too much visual weight. If you are pear shaped, pants that are a darker color will slim your lower half and balance your proportions better too.
Finally, experiment with different pants and brands – no two are made equally. Try full length and cropped styles. And try them on with different shoes and heel heights.
Most times, you can’t really rule out a style without searching out and trying on different brands. You may surprise yourself by what you find. I know I sure have!