Gloria Vanderbilt jeans are a popular brand known for their comfortable fit and flattering silhouettes. They come in a wide range of sizes, including options for petite and short body types.
But what exactly is the difference between petite and short sizing for jeans?
This comprehensive guide will compare Gloria Vanderbilt petite and short jeans in detail, highlighting the key differences, pros and cons of each, and answering frequently asked questions.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Petite Jeans | Short Jeans |
| Overall Size | Smaller overall size designed for shorter, slimmer frames | Made for average height with shorter leg length |
| Inseam Length | 25-27 inches | 28-30 inches |
| Rise | Lower rise | Average rise |
| Leg Opening | Narrower leg opening | Average leg opening |
| Pocketing | Shallower pocket bags | Average pocket depth |
| Fit | Contoured, slim fit | Relaxed, classic fit |
| Length | Cropped, ankle length | Full length with shorter inseam |
| Styles | Limited petite-specific styles | Available in most washes/fits |
| Price | Often more expensive | Typically same MSRP as regular sizes |
Overview of Petite Jeans
Gloria Vanderbilt jeans labeled as “petite” are designed for women 5’4″ and under. Petite sizes are smaller overall, with shorter inseams, slimmer legs, and a contoured fit to flatter a shorter, more compact frame.
Key features of Gloria Vanderbilt petite jeans include:
- Inseam length of 25-27 inches – Significantly shorter than average to prevent bunching at the ankles
- Lower rise – Sits below the natural waist for a leg-lengthening effect
- Slim, tapered leg – Narrow leg opening and fitted thighs create a sleek silhouette
- Cropped, ankle-length styles – Hemmed to fall above the ankle, ideal for petites
- Contoured through seat and thigh – Closely follows the curves of petite figures vs. straight cut
- Made with stretch fabric – Retains shape while allowing comfortable movement
- Limited specialty petite washes/fits – Not all regular washes come in petite sizing
- More expensive price point – Petite sizing is considered a specialty size
The intended fit of Gloria Vanderbilt petite jeans is slim, sleek, and modern. They cater to petite women who want that second-skin look in their denim. The cropped length also suits tops and shoes that are meant to be shown off. However, those who prefer a relaxed fit may find the petite jeans too tight.
Overview of Short Jeans
Gloria Vanderbilt jeans in short sizes are designed for women of average height with shorter legs. They are not smaller overall like petite jeans. The main difference is the shortened inseam and leg length.
Characteristics of Gloria Vanderbilt short jeans:
- Inseam 28-30 inches – About 2 inches shorter than regular inseam
- Average rise – Sits at natural waist level, not low rise
- Classic straight leg – No taper, roomier fit through hip and thigh
- Full length – Hemmed to fall around ankle, not cropped
- Average pocket depth – Not shallower like petite pocket bags
- Available in most washes/fits – Comes in all the same options as regular sizes
- Same MSRP as regular length – Not specialty pricing like petite sizing
The intended fit of Gloria Vanderbilt short jeans is classic and comfortable. The straight leg and average rise cater to women who do not want an overly fitted look. Short inseams simply address shorter leg length while keeping the overall cut roomy. This makes the short jeans more accessible to various body types.
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Key Differences Between Petite and Short
While both petite and short sizes cater to below average heights, there are several key differences:
1. Overall Size:
Petite jeans are smaller in general, not just shorter. They are made for people who are smaller around and not as tall. Short sizes, however, are mostly about the leg length. Imagine you have a pair of jeans; if they are short size, only the legs are shorter, but if they are petite, the whole jeans are smaller, like they shrunk a little.
2. Fit:
Petite jeans are designed to fit the body snugly. They are more tapered, meaning they get narrower towards the bottom. This can make them look stylish and modern. On the other hand, short jeans have a straight leg. This means they don’t change width as they go down. It’s a classic look, good for every day and every body type.
3. Rise:
The rise of the jeans is the part from the waist to the crotch. Petite jeans have a lower rise because they are made for smaller bodies. It helps the jeans fit better. Short jeans have an average rise, like most regular jeans, because only the leg length is different.
4. Leg Opening:
Petite jeans have a narrower leg opening, making them snug around the ankles. This gives a trendy look. Short jeans have an average leg opening, making them comfortable and versatile.
5. Length:
Petite jeans are cropped, meaning they are shorter by design. They are meant to show off a bit of the ankle or the shoe. Short jeans, though, are full length. They are just like regular jeans, but with shorter legs.
6. Pocket Depth:
The pockets on petite jeans are not as deep. This is because the jeans are smaller overall. But short jeans have average-sized pockets. This is handy for carrying things like keys or a phone.
7. Wash Availability:
Wash refers to the color and texture of the jeans. Petite jeans might not come in as many washes or colors. But, short jeans usually have lots of options, just like regular jeans.
8. Cost:
Petite jeans can be more expensive. This might be because they are special sizes and not as many are made. Short jeans usually cost the same as regular jeans.
9. Suitable Build:
Petite jeans are often more flattering for people with slimmer builds. They are made to fit snugly and show off a slim figure. Short jeans are great for all body types. They are versatile and classic, so they work well for average figures.
10. Style:
Petite jeans often have an edgier look. They are trendy and modern. Short jeans have a classic denim look. They are timeless and can be worn by anyone, anytime.
By breaking down these differences, we can see that petite and short jeans are designed with different people in mind.
Petite sizes are all about fitting smaller bodies perfectly, with a fashionable and modern look. They may be a bit more costly and might not come in as many colors or washes, but they flatter slimmer builds and have a unique style.
On the other hand, short sizes are all about the leg length. They are versatile and timeless, working well for anyone who needs a shorter leg length but an average fit everywhere else.
With average rise, leg opening, and pocket depth, short jeans are practical and come in a variety of washes at no extra cost.
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Pros and Cons of Petite Jeans
Pros:
- Flattering contoured fit for petite figures
- Cropped length spotlights shoes
- Stretch fabric moves with your body
- Slim legs create elongated look
- Low rise is leg-lengthening
- Tapered leg smooths thigh curves
- Ankle length prevents bunching/dragging
Cons:
- Limited washes and fits available
- Slim fit may be too tight for some
- Cropped length can feel short for modesty
- Low rise isn’t ideal for longer torsos
- No curvy or relaxed fits offered
- More expensive specialty sizing
- Can’t try on in-store, online only
Pros and Cons of Short Jeans
Pros:
- Addresses shorter legs without altering fit
- Classic straight leg flatters most figures
- Offered in full array of washes and styles
- True to size from regular fit jeans
- Natural rise sits at waist comfortably
- Average leg opening accommodates curves
- Same price as regular length jeans
Cons:
- Still may need hemming for very short legs
- Straight leg lacks shaping of petite jeans
- Average rise can be too high for some
- Fit is not tailored for petite figures
- Full length crops less than petite ankle jeans
- Not specialized for below average heights
- Cuffs can overwhelm those under 5’
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Frequently Asked Questions
Petite jeans are smaller all over to flatter shorter, slimmer figures. Short jeans only adjust the inseam length while keeping the overall cut of regular sizing.
Petite jeans are smaller in every dimension – they have shorter inseams but also a narrower cut through the hips, thighs, and leg opening. The overall silhouette is slimmer and cropped compared to regular sizing.
Petite short is a combination of the two sizing adjustments. The inseam is shortened like “short” jeans but the overall fit is slimmed down like “petite” jeans. It caters to women who need both a cropped length and a contoured silhouette due to their shorter, slimmer build.
On average, petite jeans have 2-3 inch shorter inseams than regular jeans. For example, regular jeans typically have a 32 inch inseam in size 6-8. The petite inseam would be around 29-30 inches. The exact amount can vary by brand and style.
Final Thoughts
When choosing between Gloria Vanderbilt jeans in petite versus short sizing, consider your body type, style preferences, and desired fit.
Petite caters to shorter women wanting an ultra-flattering contoured silhouette. Short simply crops the length while keeping an overall classic fit.
For the edgiest, leg-lengthening look, opt for petite. But for a universally flattering denim style, try Gloria Vanderbilt’s short inseams with comfort in mind. Either way, you’ll get that perfect ankle-skimming length without the annoying bunching of too-long jeans!