I'm a 5'3" Fashion Editor—Here's How I Make Wide-Leg Trousers Work for Me

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: