I'm Petite, Here's How I Make the Wide-Leg Trouser Trend Work for Me

Being a petite fashion editor (so you have my vital stats, I’m 5’ 3.5” and a 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. Undeterred, 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—and that’s great / 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 do so by way of a wide-leg cropped trouser. 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 courtesy of Instagram.

Shop Wide-Leg Cropped Trousers

A very cool summer workwear or dinner outfit. 

I always gravitate towards matching sets such as Tandya's. 

Add a top in a matching hue for your very own DIY co-ord. 

They look beautiful peaking out from underneath trench coats. 

Don't disregard printed styles—match your top to a colour within the motif and you'll pull together your look instantly. 

Next Up: I'm an Editor Who's Hard to Impress—9 New Pieces That Get a Yes From Me

Opening Image: @smythsisters