Finding the Right Pants For Your Body - Let’s talk Petites!

Have you done a closet audit lately? For many of us, we tend to wear just a fraction of what we own.

How many items do you have that you’ve worn once or not at all? How about those pants that looked cute when you saw them on a mannequin, yet you never reach for them because they don’t fit you quite right?

There are many things to factor in when you’re shopping for pants. One brand’s size 8 may fit perfectly, and yet you need a size 6 in another brand and a 10 in a third!

Tips for Choosing the Right Pants

Here’s what you should keep in mind when looking for a classic pant that will suit your body type from season to season:

1. There are a few obvious clues when you try on a pair of pants. Length (inseam), cut of the leg and waist size.
2. Boot cut pants flatter most body types. These typically are tighter in the thigh, then flare from the kneecap.
3. Ankle pants can offer more flexibility if most pants are too long.
4. Look closely at the rise of the pants. This is the area between the middle of the crotch seam to the top of the waistband. Is the crotch baggy? Pull on pants help reduce the “sagging crotch” problem.
   
5. When trying on pants, make sure to sit down in them and do a few squats or knee bends. Does the fabric move with you and return to its original shape? Look for a pant with some stretch that will keep its shape.

Have you tried a petite size? It is a common myth that petite sizes are only for tiny gals. I don’t typically need petites for the inseam length. However, I have discovered some petite style pants that fit me perfectly and they are now a closet staple.

• Petite pants have a 2 in. shorter inseam. They are also made with a shorter rise.
• Well-made petite pants have higher kneecaps.
• It is often difficult to find petite sizes. Look for sizes labeled with a P (for example 10 P).

Once I’ve found the perfect pant for me, I like to buy it in multiple colors (or washes for denim) if they are available.

This will make your closet easier to navigate. Many of these items can go from dressy to casual with a simple top change (from a silky blouse to a graphic Tee, for example).

Go-to Petite Pants

Here are some go-to items for me:

Slimsation pull on ankle pant with back pockets

• 29 inch inseam
• Wide waistband/tummy control panel
• Slimsation stretch moves with you while retaining its shape

"Love the material, slight stretch and comfort!" ~ Nancy B.

Slimsation EASE-Y-FIT Ankle Pant

These are my go-to pant for work and travel. Bonus – these come with a comfortable wide waistband and tummy panel to snatch your waist!

“This is now the fourth pair of these exact pants that I own. One can never have too many pairs of black pants!” ~ Jennifer G.

Slimsation Petite Pull-On Crop Pant

Choosing the petite size means these pants hit just the right length for me. The light Stone color makes them perfect for summer — I wear them at least once a week!

Fear not friends! Rid your closet of those ill-fitting pants. I hope these tools will help you narrow down your focus in your quest for the perfect pant for you.