I've been a fashion editor for many years now, and one of my favourite items of clothing that I always turn to when I want to look put-together is wide-leg trousers. The only problem is I'm 5'2" (just), and it's often a difficult balancing act between looking chic and looking swamped. Find the right pair, though, and this pant style works wonders for making you appear taller (if you're into that) and, I always think, more polished.
It took me a long time to discover the joys of this trend, though. Being on the shorter side meant I avoided them like the plague, ogling from afar at tall girls wearing them in the office or at fashion week. It was only when I was forced into a pair for an event and received compliments that I became determined to make the trend work for me and my petite frame.
Yes, it takes a lot of trying to find the perfect shape (not too flared, not too long, pockets are always a plus), but I learnt that it's really all in the styling as well. Wide legs look great with trainers, but unless you're six feet, the likelihood is you'll get soggy hems if you step out in the rain. Heels, high ones, work for an evening look. But of course, we all know our highest heels aren't a realistic option for long days of meetings or being out and about, especially in London. So I've landed on wearing them with heeled ankle boots, which add height and sophistication without the pain—perfect!
I wear these Arket trousers so much—they come in black too (keep scrolling to shop).
My ultimate tips? Try out the petite sections first—anywhere with an option to choose a shorter leg length saves a lot of hassle. M&S and ASOS impress me the most. But don't let that stop you shopping elsewhere. Zara and Mango trousers are often much too long in the leg for me, but make friends with your local tailor and your options are endless. Our favourite petite influencer Monikh swears by alterations.
Lastly, if you're shopping online from non-petite collections, don't be fooled by the length of the trousers on the (usually very tall) models. I always look for styles that look slightly cropped on them, which means they'll hit the floor nicely for me.
Keep scrolling for some wide-leg-trouser outfit inspiration, and then shop some of the best styles for petite people.
See How to Wear Wide-Leg Trousers:
Style Notes: Puddle-pants are a trending style that I'm definitely on board with. If you're on the shorter side, simply opt for the petite option when available or try buying cropped trousers if you know they'll come up longer on you.
Style Notes: Wide-leg jeans are so cool right now. All you need is a simple stripe tee and sporty trainers like Harriet and you've got yourself an effortlessly chic look for a casual day out.
Style Notes: You might think that wide leg trousers are only for the colder months, but this isn't true at all. Opt for a hemmed wide-leg style that will show off textured boots in autumn, or cool sandals in summer. Hemmed trousers are also a great option for those of us with shorter legs!
Style Notes: The great thing about wide-leg trousers is their versatility. You can dress them up with a matching boxy blazer for the office, but equally pair with a simple white tee for a more informal look.
Style Notes: There's something about a wide-leg co-ord that's comfortable yet put-together. This green shade can be just as versatile as black or white whilst also giving you that mood-boosting pop of colour.
Style Notes: If you're looking for a more elegant wide-leg option, try switching up your usual jeans for a silk pair that will immediately make any outfit look more expensive.
Style Notes: Tonal dressing is the key to looking expensive and influencers are often seen wearing wide-leg trousers in neutral tones. You can also try adding a pop of colour like Belle to make the outfit more interesting.
Shop the Best Wide-Leg Trousers for Petites:
Reformation's best-selling trousers come in petite lengths, and so many different colours.
These should just graze the floor on shorter people.
COS wide leg trousers are the best around.
This pair comes in classic black, deep olive, mahogany and cream.
These 3/4 length trousers will look full-length on those with shorter legs. Wear them with a vest top tucked in to showcase the button detailing.
The sharp front pleats look so premium and will give the illusion of having long legs.
If you want to be sure your trousers aren't dragging on the floor, choose a more cropped style like this Destree pair.
These cropped trousers exude Scandi minimalist cool.
Because these are petite, it's likely the length will be better to wear with flat shoes like trainers to perfect that slouchy look.
These are a great, cropped, premium pair for those looking for wide-leg jeans.
M&S has such an extensive size and length range to suit all heights.
This super wide cropped pair is perfect for petite people and will look so expensive on.
Such a classic piece.
A chic grey works well in a smart office, and this pair made for petite people will make sure you look polished without the hems dragging on the floor.
I couldn't be happier that Reformation's cool leopard print trousers are now available in petite lengths.
Turn up the hems to suit your leg length.
You'll have these for a lifetime. Such a great length as well!
The cropped length is perfect for shorter people looking for chic outfits.
Comfortable and ready to add into your wardrobe rotations immediately.
The cropped length means you don't have to compromise on style just because you're short.
Everyone in fashion loves these wide-leg trousers so don't let the long length discourage you. You can take any trousers you like to a tailor to get that perfect fit.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.