Comparisons: Low-rise vs Mid-rise vs High-rise Jeans
Let’s start with the basics. The rise of a jean is the measurement between the waistband and the crotch seam. As we’re sure you already know, the rise of jean is one of the most important features when it comes to finding #denimtolivein. That’s why you’ll usually see the rise outlined in the jean description!
When choosing a jean and rise, the most important thing is choosing a style that you like and you feel good in.
If you’re not sure what rise you like best, here’s a few tips to keep in mind while you’re shopping. A high rise generally suits someone with a smaller torso to elongate their body. Someone taller may prefer a low-rise in order to prevent the legs from appearing ‘too-long’ (if there is such a thing?!). And a mid-rise tends to suit someone genetically balanced and achieves a look of proportion through the legs and torso.
What are Low-Rise Jeans?
We know this is a touchy subject for some, but bear with us!
Low-rise are worn on your hips and sit below your natural waist. Low-rise jeans measure around 7.5” front seam and 13” back seam. As you may (or may not!) remember, they became popular in the 60s and 70s and have recently started the make a comeback!
How to Style Low-Rise Jeans:
As touched on above, low-rise jeans have been known to go in and out of fashion throughout the years. They’re on a constant pendulum of popularity!
Low-rise jeans are worn well with a crop-top, highlighting the low-rise feature (obviously a summer outfit) or with a loosely tucked t-shirt or a tied button-up.
What are Mid-rise Jeans?
Mid is short for, you guessed it, MIDDLE! Which means mid-rise jeans sit mid-way between your hips and your belly button. Mid-rise jeans measure around a 9” front seam and a 14.5” back seam.
Mid-rise jeans are one of the most popular styles for a reason; they’re great for virtually every body type and are comfortable enough for everyday wear – if in doubt, a mid-rise style wont let you down!
How to Style Mid-Rise Jeans:
In truth, mid-rise jeans can be styled with just about anything; how you choose to wear them really depends on your own personal style!
Mid-rise jeans look great with a wide range of tops; from cropped jumpers to button downs to loose t-shirts to tanks. Similarly, they can be dressed up or down, depending on which shoes you’re wearing!
What are High-Rise Jeans?
High-rise, otherwise known as high-waisted jeans have the longest seam between the crotch and waistband. High-rise jeans measure between 9”- 11” front seam and around 14” back seam. They typically sit higher on your torso or just above your bellybutton depending on your height.
High-rise jeans grew in popularity in the 80s and 90s and quickly became a must have item partially due to their flattering silhouette and (and most importantly) their comfort. They eventually fell out of fashion after the 90s but have made a huge comeback in the last 10 years.
How to Style High-Rise Jeans:
More recently, popular cuts like the Mom Jean have continued to show high-rise favouritism and fuelling the style’s popularity. One of (the many) reasons women love high-rise styles is because it elongates the lower body, giving the perception of height, while still creating an elegant silhouette.
High-rise styles can be worn for a variety of occasions; dress them up with heels and a blazer for an evening out or wear them with a t-shirt and sneakers for a casual day-time look. The possibilities are endless!
Which rise is best?!
So which ones best? Low-rise or mid-rise or high-rise??
Firstly, choosing low-rise, mid-rise or high-rise jeans is entirely dependent on a few different factors; your personal style, your build and what you feel GOOD in.
If you’re wanting for a little guidance; we’ve put together a few tips and tricks for you.
For taller women
If you’re longer in the legs, we recommend a low-rise or mid-rise style jean. This will keep your upper and lower body proportionate!
We recommend having a look at our women's Tall Collection. Our tall jeans have a 34" inseam and come in an array of washes - we're positive you'll find a pair you love!
For shorter women
We typically recommend shorts women to avoid low-rise jeans as they will make legs appear shorter. A mid-rise or high-rise will help elongate your legs and torso! We especially love our Luna jeans for shorter women!
For average height women
If you’re in the average heigh bracket (5’5, 5’6) you’re spoilt with rise choice as all three will suit you equally! Of course, your personal likes and dislikes in jean styles must be taken into consideration.
Final thoughts:
At the end of the day, the most important factor when choosing a jean rise is whether or not you’re happy with the fit and look. You know your body best and outsiders opinion is only a matter of opinion.
For low-rise, mid-rise and high-rise jeans explore our women's jeans or if you’re still unsure, please reach out to our friendly customer service team service@mavi.net.au
While your reasoning as to why high-rise jeans tend to better “suit someone with a shorter torso” kind of makes sense, I strongly disagree! Putting aside my own personal preferences, high-rise jeans generally do NOT tend to fit short or petite women well. While everyone is different, proportionately, a short or petite person’s upper body (just like their lower body/legs) tends to be shorter than that of the average woman. As a result, mid-rise or high-rise jeans can especially be awkwardly high on a smaller woman.
If there’s a concern about one’s legs looking “too short”, the solution is simple: put on heels or boots/sneakers with a thicker sole, and get the inseam an inch or so longer than you normally would.
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