The 5 Best Brands For Petite Trousers, According To A Fashion Editor

Being 5’3, I’ve come to (somewhat begrudgingly) accept the fact that most of my jeans will have frayed ends from being dragged along the sidewalk. It’s a look that I can typically get away with — especially when the distressing looks intentional — and I’m willing to sacrifice a clean hem if it means having some solid denim staples in my wardrobe. But my trousers? They don’t get that same grace. Unfortunately, there is simply no disguising it when your wide-leg trousers start pooling at your feet.

For petite shoppers, structured pants demand a fit that is just *right*. Whereas a typical inseam usually falls between 30 and 32 inches, for people who are 5'4" and under, an inseam should range from 25 to 29 inches, depending on the brand and style. A slightly too-long inseam can make even the most tailored pair look sloppy. And if a high-waisted style hits too low, it can throw off the entire proportion. When you’re working with limited inches, every detail matters.

Over the years, I’ve learned that not all petite-friendly lines are created equal. Some brands get the length right but miss the mark in proportion, while others might nail the fit but are filled with uninspired designs. Luckily, a few retailers have figured out the formula—offering trousers that don’t just skim the floor but actually hit right where they should and are equipped with rises that sit exactly where they’re supposed to.

After extensive online shopping (and research), I’ve stocked my wardrobe with the best pants that don’t require a tailor. Below, my favorite brands to shop for the best petite pairs. 

As a fashion editor, I’m picky about the things I choose to put in my wardrobe. If I’ve made space for it in my tiny NYC apartment, it’s because I know it will be there for years. J.Crew is one of my favorite brands in general, but I especially appreciate how their petite styles aren’t just a shrunken version of regular sizes — they’re thoughtfully designed, with inseams that typically range from 25” to 29”, and the fit always feels spot-on. I’m also a fan of their tailored cuts that look polished. Plus, the fabrics never disappoint, with everything from crisp wool blends to breezy linen holding shape years after purchase.

Madewell’s petite section is my go-to when I’m after trousers that toe the line between polished and timeless. They offer plenty of styles I can rely on design-wise, and always have a style that feels like a versatile addition to my wardrobe. Their petite trousers typically come with a 27” or 28” inseam. Having tried multiple pairs, I can confirm that the fit is consistently true to petite proportions — with no awkward bunching or dragging. Though the color range is mostly made up of neutrals, the quality makes up for it — think 100% linen or breathable cotton blends.

Reformation’s petite section offers an impressive range. Nearly every pair of pants the brand carries is available in a petite size, with low, mid, and high-rise options to suit different tastes. The inseams range from 27” to 30” and are crafted from luxe materials that look as good as they feel. It’s rare to find such a variety of styles in petite sizing, which, at the time of publishing, range from elegant silk for the evening to breathable linen for the everyday. While some of the pairs aren’t cheap, it’s worth the splurge to invest in something that fits perfectly. These petite styles give me that extra confidence that I won’t be dragging or damaging them as I go about my day, making the investment feel even more worthwhile.

Whether I’m in the mood for something tailored or a little more relaxed, I know I can count on Anthropologie to have plenty of options that feel cool and trendy. The brand’s petite trousers typically come with inseams between 25” and 29”. While the range spans from casual boxer pants to dressier pleated slacks, the brand’s wide-leg, slouchy trousers are my go-to for looking laid-back vibe but not sloppy. Even styles with longer inseams hit that sweet spot where they drape perfectly without overwhelming my frame.

This is your reminder not to sleep on Ann Taylor. It’s no secret that trousers can be pricey depending on where you shop, so this is always the first stop when I’m on the hunt for affordable petite options that don’t skimp on quality. Ann Taylor’s petite styles come with shorter inseams — usually between 25” and 28” — and in a solid range of cuts, from sleek straight-leg trousers to more relaxed wide-leg styles. I also enjoy that while they tend to stick to neutrals, they’ll mix in fun seasonal shades and patterns that keep things fresh.