Cropped is a generic term used to describe any style of trouser that is shortened to a length where the hem finishes on the lower leg. The length varies between two to six inches above the ankle bone. Some retailers will include jeans when they refer to cropped pants. Silhouettes run the gamut, as you can see in the collection below.
Ankle pants are one variation of a cropped pant. Again, some retailers will include jeans under the heading of ankle pants. They’re sleek, tailored, tapered on the hem, and showcase the ankle. Lengths are typically two to three inches above the ankle bone. Two inches is quite the sweet spot, especially when the calf is wider and more muscular.
Style consultants and fashion professionals will differ on what is the best length for ankle pants. Lengths are my thing. I am pedantic about them so I have strong opinions on what is most flattering. I believe that when hems are longer than two inches, ankle pants don’t look intentional, but more like regular length pants that are too short. If you’re going to wear ankle pants, show your ankles.
Here’s a collection of ankle pants at the perfect length.
