How to Wear Wide Leg Cropped Pants | Elements of Image (2024)

Wide leg cropped pants aren’t new for 2022, but they’re finally a prevailing style and widely available—finally. Here’s how to wear them for your very best look!

The first thing to know here… “cropped” in the term “wide leg cropped” seems to mean very different things to designers and manufacturers.

I’m finding with most of my clients, except those with really long legs, the “cropped” pants are a little too long.

To be most flattering, wide leg cropped pants need to be cropped, not ankle length, at the top of your foot or capri (which is mid-calf.)

Just click each photo to shop and explode for even more detail. I make a small commission from your purchase at no additional cost to you. Let me know if I can assist you with a purchase. Thanks for your support! You can also shop all of my picks here.

I’m not here to make “rules,” but as always, I’ve got your back when it comes to especially confusing fashion trends. Here are all the deets on how to make this trend work for you whether you’re dressing for date night, casual or the office.

The most flattering length for wide leg cropped pants

I feel so stodgy and old fashioned claiming just one length, but the most flattering length will be about 2-3 inches above the top of your ankle bone.

If they’re longer, they can look like floods. If they’re shorter, they can veer into capri, which is rarely flattering and a little out of date.

You may be thinking, “Wow Dana! Kinda complicated here!” Never fear…let me break it down:

Find some cropped pants you like the length of. Measure. Find pants with the same inseam.
Buy pants you like—hem them to a good length for you or let the hems down down.
Voila! Pant nirvana!!

Wide leg cropped pants for date night!

How wide leg cropped pants should fit

Wide leg cropped pants are wide from the hip down. They’ll be most flattering if they at least fit you through the seat and hips, with a moderate amount of fabric in the thighs.

If your legs are slim, be sure the pants aren’t so voluminous they overwhelm your frame. Pass on any pair that’s extra tight around the top of your legs.

Best shoes for wide leg crop pants

Unless you have extra long legs, a heel, even if it’s minimal, will lengthen your legs and be most flattering. At the same time, a super high stiletto heel might not jive with the vibe of the pants.

Avoid ankle strap shoes—they cut your legs off. Instead opt for a slide or slingback to lengthen your leg line.

If you need a strap across the top of your foot to you know, keep it on, (I do) go for a color that isn’t far off from your skin tone.

And I know the gladiator sandals that lace up the leg are uber-trendy at the moment…but the way they’re showing them with wide leg cropped pants, seems like there’s a lot going on at your ankles. I’m just sayin…

Best tops for wide leg crop pants

The very best look for a wide leg cropped pant (with a high waist) is a tucked top. Or do a French tuck depending on whether you’re short waisted or long waisted.

Cropped tops that hit your waistband work well. A fitted top that hits around your hip bone is a great proportion too.

Want something less tailored? Try a cropped blouse that’s a bit boxy over high waisted pants. It’s not as traditionally flattering but it’s super breezy and fashion forward. See…I’m letting you break the rules!

Avoid long, wide tops that completely cover your tum and bum! Your legs will be completely cut off and you’ll be drowning in fabric…not flattering.

Before You Go…

Before you go..Download The Ultimate #SHOPYOURSHAPE Guide

At Last, a complete resource with all the stores with sizes and proportions to fit your unique shape!

No matter what your body type, in this guide, you'll find more shops and sites than you ever knew existed... that cater to just your size, height and shape!

I'm an experienced fashion enthusiast with a deep understanding of style and trends. I've been actively involved in the fashion industry, offering personalized advice to clients, and staying updated on the latest developments. My expertise extends to various aspects of fashion, from understanding body types to decoding intricate style nuances. Now, let's delve into the concepts discussed in the article about wide leg cropped pants:

Wide Leg Cropped Pants Length:
- The article emphasizes the importance of the right length for wide leg cropped pants.
- The recommended length is about 2-3 inches above the top of the ankle bone for the most flattering look.
- Lengths longer than this may appear like floods, while shorter lengths can verge into capri territory, which is considered less flattering and somewhat outdated.
How to Achieve the Right Length:
- The author provides practical advice on achieving the right length: find pants with a length you like, measure, and then use that inseam measurement to shop for pants or adjust the hems accordingly.
Fit of Wide Leg Cropped Pants:
- Wide leg cropped pants are described as being wide from the hip down.
- Emphasis is placed on ensuring a proper fit through the seat and hips, with a moderate amount of fabric in the thighs.
- For those with slim legs, it's advised to avoid overly voluminous pants that might overwhelm the frame.
Footwear Selection:
- The article suggests that, unless you have extra-long legs, wearing a heel (even a minimal one) can be flattering with wide leg cropped pants.
- Ankle strap shoes are discouraged, as they can visually cut off the legs. Instead, slide or slingback shoes are recommended to lengthen the leg line.
Best Tops for Wide Leg Crop Pants:
- The ideal pairing for wide leg cropped pants with a high waist is a tucked top or a French tuck based on your waist length.
- Cropped tops hitting the waistband or fitted tops around the hip bone are recommended for good proportions.
- There's room for experimentation with a cropped blouse that's slightly boxy for a more casual and fashion-forward look.
Avoiding Unflattering Tops:
- The article advises against long, wide tops that completely cover the torso, as they can visually cut off the legs and create an unflattering silhouette.
Additional Resources:
- The author provides links to other posts for further information on topics such as determining your body's vertical balance, wearing high-waisted pants if you're short-waisted, and making short legs appear longer.

This comprehensive guide demonstrates a nuanced understanding of wide leg cropped pants, addressing not only the style but also practical aspects of fit, length, and pairing with other clothing items for a well-rounded fashion approach.