Let me start off by saying that I know this is a hot button topic for some of you and if you're firmly settled in your choice because it feels comfortable then by all means just keep on wearing what you like. However, if you've ever wondered which rise works best on your body type then let's talk about it.
What I find most frustrating is that rise length comes and goes as a trend when it really should be determined by body type and shape. In the late 90s and early 2000s low rise was the hot trend, then some where in the mid to late 2010s the high-rise started gaining popularity. This left a lot of low-rise lovers exasperated because they could no longer find new versions of their beloved low-rise cut. On the other hand, people who were desperate for a higher rise could finally rejoice in all the new choices available from their favorite retailers. I do think clothing companies are finally catching on and now offering more styles in a variety of rises, including the (mostly) universally flattering mid-rise.
How to Measure the Rise of Jeans and Pants
Measuring the rise of jeans and pants is super simple. With a tape measure, start at the seam of the crotch/groin area and measure up the front, past the fly to the top of the waist band. That is the length of the rise!
A Quick Rundown of the Rises
Keep in mind that designers' measurements of what is considered low, mid and high rise are going to vary so how it fits on you is really what matters most.
Low-Rise:
Depending on the designer or brand, low-rise ranges from about 7 to 8.5 inches. The top band sits approximately at the hip bone. What were are seeing now are more loose fitting options that hang low on the hips as opposed to just those snug, hip-hugging options in the early 2000s.
Best fit for: Low-rise pants are great for someone with a short torso and longer legs. The low waist band will help lengthen the look of the torso. They are also great for apple-shaped bodies that carry weight in the torso area because that waist-band will sit on the hips instead of at the natural waist.
Looks best with: Low rise looks great with crop tops (if you're willing to show a little skin), any top that sits right at the waist band and some button-ups especially styled untucked. Tucking tops into low-rise can be tricky and not always flattering especially if the fabric is bunching up under the pants. It also draws attention to the widest part of your body.
Left to right: Banana Repulic low-rise straight, Levi's Low Loose,
7 For All Mankind Dojo (click to shop)
Mid-Rise:
Considered universally flattering, mid-rise ranges from about 9 inches to 10 inches. It sits about halfway between the top of your hip bone and your navel. So not too low and not too high.
Best fit for: Mid-rise is great for pretty much any body type and someone who is looking for a happy medium between a low and high rise. Mid-rise may provide some illusion of a longer waist for individuals with a shorter torso because it still sits below the navel as well help lengthen the look of shorter legs depending on the cut.
Looks best with: Generally, and I say generally, mid-rise is pretty versatile and looks good with any type of top. Depending on your body type and the style of the pants or jeans, you can tuck in or leave untucked. I am petite and I have a long torso so I still have a hard time tucking tops into mid-rise bottoms.
Left to Right: AYR The Pop, MOTHER Insider Crop Step, Levi's Middy Straight (click to shop)
High-Rise:
High-rise started becoming popular around the mid 2010s. The measurements range from about 10.5 to 12 inches. Most of the high-rise jeans and pants in my closet have a rise that measures 11 inches. A high-rise will rest at the bellybutton (natural waist) or even a little above.
Best fit for: A high-rise is great on someone with a long torso. It also help lengthen the leg so if you're petite, like myself, and have short legs and a longer torso then a high-waist pant is great for creating an illusion of a longer leg.
Looks best with: High-rise bottoms look great with a variety of tops as long as the proportions are right. I love tucking in longer tops including button-ups, blouses and tees. Cropped tops that meet at the waistband are also very flattering. In fact, this is good way to wear some of those cropped tops without showing any skin.
Left to Right: Levi's Ribcage Straight Ankle, MOTHER The Rambler Crop, Anthropologie Collette Wide-leg (click to shop)
What Rise is Best for You
When it comes to finding the right rise for you, I say ignore the trends and wear what is most flattering and comfortable for your body type. While I am seeing the resurgence of the low-waist, I also have not seen the lack of mid and high rise options out there so I am hoping designers are listening to buyers and keeping more options on the market.
Happy Shopping!
Hope Recupero
@stylethirtyone
www.supply31.com
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