Short torsoed lady wants to wear loose jeans

April 17, 2023 6:58 PM

After more than a decade in skinny jeans that I never liked, following a few years of low waisted hell, I’m all for the loose high-waisted look the kids are wearing nowadays. I haven’t been shopping in years, and don’t know my style.

I’m 5’2”, size 4, late 30s, with a short torso and I carry most of my weight on my waist.

I bought a high rise Levi’s pair online, that sadly disappointed because my torso looks comically small, so I guess I need to stick to mid rise?

This time, I’ll go to the store to try things on but I want to get a sense of what I should target.

I generally find boot cuts flattering but I don’t mind trying a straight or tapered cut for a change. I do not want a skinny or slim. I would like at least one loose-ish pair to wear with shorter slim fitting tops, but I’m also on the market for a pair that’s more fitted at the hips that is versatile. This is all for casual wear.

I plan to hit up the Levi’s in town and I’m hoping to find at least two great pairs there because I don’t really have time to store hop. Fashionistas, help me out.

posted by redlines to Clothing, Beauty, & Fashion (4 answers total)

I am of similar height and size to you, though I carry most of my weight on my hips and thighs. I would try the Levis Wedgie straight fit in your chosen inseam and wash - they generally come in high rise (10.25 inches) but I have owned a couple of pairs and they feel more mid-rise to me. To be honest, I haven't loved the fit on me because I have a small waist compared to my hip/thigh circumference and if Levis fit my lower half they tend to gap at the waist. But if you are a bit thicker in the waist this may not be an issue for you. Good luck!
posted by BeeJiddy at 11:26 PM on April 17, 2023

I also love the Levis Wedgie Straight! I've been meaning to try Madewell denim too as I've heard good things about it but haven't yet - but if I were to jeans shop without too much store hopping, Levis and Madewell would be the two stores I try.
posted by misskaz at 4:10 AM on April 18, 2023

I have found, with similar proportions, that wide legged jeans work much better on me than simply loose jeans.
posted by watermelon at 9:55 AM on April 18, 2023 [1 favorite]

I'm a similar size and height, with weight through my waist, except that I have a longer torso and shorter legs. I have never found a pair of Levi's jeans that fit my waist without being ludicrously oversized in the crotch/hip... YMMV, but consider checking out other brands. For a similar price point, I like Madewell jeans and they will definitely carry looser/more modern cuts.
posted by serelliya at 12:08 PM on April 20, 2023