Denim Style Guide: The Three Basic Rises for Women’s Jeans

Finding the perfect pair of jeans can sometimes be tricky, especially when it comes to the figuring out the perfect rise for your body type.

We want to make your jean-buying experience as painless and simple as possible, so we listed and explained the three types:

Low Rise (aka Standard Rise)- ranges between 7 to 8 inches

Pictured: AG Legging Ankle 

If you have a short waist, these are the jeans you are looking for. Because of the lower rise, they give the illusion of length and make you look more in proportion. Note: low rise does not mean that the waist falls in the ultra low-rise category that was popular during the 90’s! Don’t shy away from the rise because of the name—you never know what works for your body until you try it on.

Mid-Rise- ranges between 8-9.5 inches

Pictured: AG Prima

Mid rise jeans are flattering on just about all body types because they come high enough to ensure there is no unsightly “muffin top”, while they are still low enough to bring length to a short torso. Luckily, there are so many options when it comes to mid-rise jeans.

High Rise- ranges between 9.5-13 inches

Frame: Frame Le High Flare

High rise jeans, which typically hit right at the belly button or above, were THE jeans of the 80’s and early 90’s, and have been making a major comeback. No longer considered a “mom jean”, but a major trend that is spotted everywhere. A high rise jean is especially flattering for women who are long waisted, but with short legs. Wearing a jean with a higher rise will give the illusion of a shorter torso and elongated legs.

Want more denim tips? Check out our guide to leg openings!