Cropped jeans are denim pants that are shorter than the standard trouser length, but longer than shorts. The hem of a cropped jean may fall anywhere below the knee to above the ankle, depending on its design. These jeans are made for men, women and children. The denim may have a faded, worn-out look or be very dark in color. White and black denim are also used for cropped pant styles.
Most cropped jean designs have zipper front styling, while some have a drawstring or elastic waist. Since their length is shorter than that of standard pants, cropped jeans aren’t typically worn in colder weather. Many people find them a great choice for spring or milder whether when it’s not hot enough for shorts.
They are a popular kids’ style of pant, as there’s often no need to adjust the hem and the cropped feature also saves on the hems becoming easily soiled or ripped. Little girls’ cropped jeans may have lace trim at the hem or embroidered details, while boys’ versions often include a graphic screen print on the back pockets as well as part of the legs.
In general, the closer the jeans are cropped to the ankle, the longer the leg length they suit. People who have short legs or are petite may look even shorter in the longer styles of cropped jean. Many fashion experts assert that the best cropped jeans for those with these body types is just below the knee, while long-legged, taller people can usually wear any length well. Skinny leg, low rise cropped jean looks are best for average or thin body types, while overweight figures are typically more flattered by slightly wider pant legs and a regular fitted waist.
There are different fit options in cropped jean styles. Some are made of stretch denim which fits close to the body. Other cropped jeans have a relaxed or looser fit which is often called a “boyfriend” style.
Cropped jeans may be hemmed or frayed. They may also be cuffed or rolled at the bottom edges. Another possible look for a cropped jean style is to push up or “scrunch” the legs much like moving the arms of a long sleeved t-shirt up to the elbows. Doing this creates an extra-casual look for this pant style. When a dressier style is needed, such as for an office casual look, dark, neatly hemmed cropped jeans are best.