So what does “inseam length” mean?

The inseam length is the distance between the bottom edge of the zipper (or crotch area) and the bottom edge of the leg opening. Knowing your inseam length is important for understanding how your jeans should fit. Do you love skinny jeans that reach your ankles to show off your shoe collection? Do you prefer flared pants that graze the floor? Here’s a simple guide to understanding the inseam lengths of jeans.

Below you will find a brief overview of the inside seam length according to body size and jean type!

Skinny Straight Cropped Wide Bootcut & Flare
Petite

5’3″ or less

25“-27” 27“ 21”-23“ 27”-29“ 28”-30″
Average

5’4“ to 5’7”

28″-30″ 28″-32″ 24″-26″ 30″-32″ 32″-34″
Tall

5’8″ and taller

31″-34″ 32″-34″ 27″-29″ 33-35″ 34″-36″

Where skinny jeans should sit

Skinny jeans or slim-fit jeans can be worn in two ways: if you prefer them to end at the ankle, ask your stylist for a shorter inseam. If you like them a little longer (or if you like to add a little cuff), ask for them to be slightly longer in proportion to your height. Either way, depending on where you’re going, you can pair your skinny jeans with ankle boots, flats, or sneakers.

Where straight-leg jeans should end

Straight jeans are known for their universal fit and versatility—think of them as the looser version of a skinny silhouette. Classic straight-leg jeans should end right at the ankle. If you prefer a longer inseam, we recommend wearing heels to avoid extra volume around the ankle.

STYLING TIP: Rolling up your jeans is currently in vogue. Stylist Mika’s advice: “Wear your straight-leg jeans with a wide cuff and sneakers or chic loafers for a classic, casual look.”

Where cropped jeans should end

Want to show a little leg, but not too much? Cropped jeans are one of our favorite silhouettes—they’re casual enough for the weekend, but can also be easily paired with work or evening wear. Cropped jeans end about 1 to 3 inches above the ankle, making them perfect for showing off chic ballerina flats or ankle boots.

Where wide-leg jeans should sit

We love wide-leg jeans for their casual look and tailored fit that accentuates the legs. The current trend is for jeans to touch the tips of your toes (or even rest slightly on the hem), so you should choose a longer inseam than you would for a classic straight silhouette. Pair them with suede boots for a vintage look or pointed pumps for a modern touch.

STYLING TIP: “Pair them with wide-leg shorts—this draws attention to eye-catching shoes and visually lengthens the legs by showing the ankles,” advises our stylist Mika.

Where bootcut and flare jeans should end

Flare and bootcut jeans have the most pronounced leg opening of all, so they need extra length to avoid the unflattering look that occurs when the widest part of your jeans ends at the ankle. Most of the time, these jeans look best with heels and should graze the floor (regardless of your height). Opt for a sleek, dark-wash flare jean when the occasion calls for something smart-casual.

STYLING TIP: Stylist Mika says you can “elevate this modern look with a statement piece—I would choose a belt with an eye-catching buckle or a cropped leather jacket.”

Your new favorite jeans are just a click away

Ready to find the perfect pair of jeans? Let our stylists help you find your new favorite jeans. Take our style quiz, book an appointment, and look forward to a selection of jeans that fit your average, long, or short inseam. Refresh your wardrobe with a new pair of your old favorite jeans or discover the latest denim trends. Try on your new jeans in the comfort of your own home. Keep only what you like and send the rest back. Shipping and returns are always free, and there’s no subscription required.