Finding the perfect pair of jeans as a petite woman can sometimes feel like an endless quest, with absolutely zero light at the end of the tunnel. From waistbands that gape awkwardly to hems that - more often than not - drag on the floor, it's easy to feel like the denim industry simply forgot about us. But, every so often, a brand delivers a game-changing pair of jeans that feel as though they were designed for under 5'4 women. After years of searching, Abercrombie & Fitch's jeans have become my go-to style for comfort, and - crucially - a perfect fit, so much so that I couldn't gate-keep them any longer.
Of all the styles Abercrombie & Fitch have to offer, it's the Mid Rise Barrel Jean, £75 I have in almost every colour. The loose yet flattering silhouette offers a refreshing break from the skin-tight skinny jeans we all used to swear by. Also, they're available in three different lengths that flatter everyone: short, regular and long, meaning there's no DIY or seamstress required.
If you've been eyeing up the AGOLDE Luna jeans, you'll notice the A&F jeans are similar in style. Both have that same wide, voluminous leg that creates a slightly sculptural silhouette. However, while AGOLDE's iteration lean into a more exaggerated shape and higher price point, A&F offers a subtler take that still delivers on the drama, but with a more accessible fit - and price tag.
The A&F Mid Rise Barrel Jeans strike that coveted balance between structured and relaxed, skimming the hips and thighs in a way that feels effortlessly cool while giving enough room for movement. Plus, they're available in a 'Curve Love' style which have a little extra room through said hip and thigh.
For more casual days, wear the jeans with an oversized knit and trainers, or for something a little more formal, add a tailored blazer. The trending 'barrel', or 'horseshoe' shape has a modern, slightly androgynous feel that makes them versatile enough to wear with most items you already have in your wardrobe. For petite girls A&F jeans are not just a trend piece - they're a wardrobe staple. I'm calling it now: you'll be reaching for these over and over again.
Shop the exact barrel jeans below.
Shop: Abercrombie & Fitch Best-Selling Jeans
www.abercrombie.com
Gemma Lavers, fashion commercial writer: 'Sometimes I'm sceptical about a brand with a 'short' range as I've been disappointed so many times when they've arrived and still been super long. I'm 5'4 and these jeans fit perfectly. The barrel-leg style feels modern yet timeless and I've found myself reaching for these jeans over all my others - even my trusty Levi's.'
www.abercrombie.com
www.abercrombie.com
Gemma Lavers is a Fashion Writer at Bauer Media, writing for brands like Grazia, heat and Closer. Gemma specialises in all things clothing and enjoys outfit planning (especially for holidays), scrolling social media for the next trend and shopping (probably for a new coat).