It’s no secret that the waistline on our jeans has been dipping lower and lower, which means we have to learn how to style jeans differently depending on the rise. At the most recent spring-summer 2027 runway shows, I saw more low-rise silhouettes on skirts and pants than I’ve seen in a long time, so it’s confirmed: The high-rise denims that dominated the streets need to make room for their mid- and low-rise sisters. As a fashion editor, I’ve sat in rooms where fellow writers and editors either embraced the Y2K-styled low-slung pants or vehemently rejected them. But I happen to think it’s all about styling, timing, and occasion.
My theory is that people who think low-rise jeans don’t suit them are simply trying to wear the same tops they’ve always worn with high-rise jeans, now with low-rise ones. But that’s not how styling works—a top that you tuck into the waistband of your high-rise jeans to accentuate the waist isn’t going to have the same allure when tucked into a low-rise jean. Low-rise and mid-rise jeans are meant to accentuate the torso, whereas high-rise jeans work to elongate the legs. So while the former looks better with long tops, the latter can benefit from a cropped or tucked in shirt. I’ve put together a quick style guide to help you decide what to wear with low, mid, and high-rise jeans.
What to wear with high-rise jeans
High-rise jeans do an excellent job of bringing the gaze to your waist, creating an hourglass figure. I like tucking voluminous, rather than form-fitting, tops into the waistband, unless I’m working with a cropped tank top. If you’re styling a shirt that’s cinched in at the waist, you’re better off doing so with a high-rise jean. Oversized button-downs also pair nicely with high-rise jeans—I styled my Reformation Cynthia jeans with a white button-down and did a little French tuck with the hem. Remember that these pants are best used to accentuate your height, so if you’re hoping to look a little taller, slip into some heels. For more ways to style high-rise jeans, see below.
