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If you’re not already living in high-waisted pants, consider this your sign. They cinch the waist, elongate your legs and somehow make even a plain tee look intentional. Whether you’re aiming for skinny jeans, flowy trousers or something in between, the right pair of high-waisted pants can totally transform your outfit. We found 17 pairs that master effortless summer dressing, starting at $17.
17 High-Waisted Pants to Look Taller and Leaner
1. Cropped Trousers: Pair these cropped high-waisted pants with ankle heels — they’ll quickly make you look leaner, adding definition to the waist while skimming over your hips and thighs.
2. It’s all in the Bow: The fact that these pencil pants have a bow knot at the waist means attention will be drawn to your smallest point, giving an overall slimming look.
3. Stretchy Slacks: Say goodbye to your stiff, uncomfortable work pants — these stretchy slacks combine the best of both worlds: a tailored, sophisticated look with flexible, breathable fabric that moves as you do.
4. Relaxed Cargo: Cargo pants just got a serious upgrade with this high-waisted pair that flatters your silhouette while maintaining the laid-back vibe you love.
5. No-Brainer Buy: These pull-on dress pants combine comfort with style, featuring a smooth waistband that sits high and flatters your waist and a clean, uninterrupted line down the leg that’ll make you look taller.
6. Wear Anywhere: Even though these tailored pants hit at the ankle, the high waist makes for a balanced, elongated silhouette.
7. Barrel Jeans: These super stretchy barrel pants sit high on the waist and taper at the ankle, creating a leg-lengthening effect while drawing the eye upward.
8. Neutral Pick: For a relaxed fit, go for these high-waisted beauties, which boast a lightweight crinkle woven fabric that’s unbelievably breathable.
9. Slim and Sexy: Clean lines, a flattering fit and just the right amount of structure — these slim tailored pants are the definition of effortlessly put together.
10. Flowy Trousers: These chiffon trousers will make you look and feel more put together — plus, there are belt loops if you’re looking to cinch the waist.
11. Casual or Dressy: The choice is yours if you want to dress these high-waisted pants up or down. The four-way stretch offers movement and the decorative buttons are a nice touch.
12. Business Casual: If the dress code calls for something business casual, this moisture-wicking pair is up for the task of making you look tall, lean and more put together.
13. Tapered Trousers: These tapered trousers have pleats at the waist that draw the eye upward while the tapered or straight cut creates a long, streamlined silhouette.
14. Subtle Pleating: Wear it to work or on a girls night out — either way, these straight-leg pants have a pleated front and slim fit that instills confidence with each step.
15. Stretchy Skinny: These skinny jeans mold to your body like second skin to effectively smooth and slim, and because they’re stretchy, they won’t feel restrictive.
16. Like Loungewear: For pants that feel like yoga pants but look polished, try this high-waisted option, which offers all-day comfort — no pinching or stiff seams in sight.
17. Slack-Worthy: Who says practical can’t be polished? These high-end-looking slacks feature strategically-placed pockets that lay flat and won’t add bulk.
