HOW TO STYLE HIGH-WAISTED PANTS: TOP DESIGNERS AND OUTFIT IDEAS

Although hip-hugging low-rise pants have experienced a recent revival, nothing accentuates the waist quite like a pair of high-rise trousers. They’re figure-flattering on everyone and go with nearly any top, cementing their position as a must-have in every woman’s wardrobe. Likewise, menswear has also seen waistlines rise as classic tailoring returns to the limelight.

When a pair of pants fits just right, the rest of the outfit quickly falls into place. Finding the right fit is easy with so many styles to choose from, but the dependable comfort and flattering silhouette of high-waisted pants will keep you reaching for them time and again. They sculpt the body by cinching the waist, covering the mid-section, and elongating the legs.

Today, the selection of designer high-waisted pants is extensive, with brands catering to all fits—skinny, slim, straight, wide-leg, and baggy. They come in every fabric imaginable, including denim, corduroy, wool, and nylon, ensuring an appropriate pair for every season and event.

We’ll break down the top designers producing high-waisted pants and explain how to build a stylish high-waisted pants outfit.

WHAT DEFINES HIGH-WAISTED PANTS?

Nothing differentiates high-waisted versus high-rise pants. Both have waistbands that reach the navel and come in a variety of silhouettes, including fitted, flared, straight-leg, or baggy. The rise is the distance between the lowest part of a pant’s seat and the waist. Regular high-rise pants typically have a nine to 10-inch rise, while super high-rise pants have an 11-inch rise or higher.

7 OF THE TOP HIGH-WAISTED PANTS

Whether you’re looking for a great pair of pants to wear with a new favorite sweater or a classic black pair to complement a work blazer, these seven designer brands create exceptional high-waisted pants to fit within your existing wardrobe or help you build a new one.

Veronica Beard Jeans

For the ultimate cool-meets-classic pair of high-rise pants, turn to the selection of Veronica Beard Jeans. The collection includes gorgeous jeans, faux-leather trousers, and dress pants in understated, timeless designs with distinct accents. The Marley High-Rise Straight Two-Toned Jeans feature rich green color blocking, patch pockets, and a seven-button fly that elongates the silhouette. They complement elevated casual looks alongside clogs, T-shirts, and blouses.

Alexander McQueen

Bring out your daring side with Alexander McQueen’s high-waisted cigarette pants, which will give your look a rebellious edge. The pants are tailored and tapered, giving the legs a svelte shape. The men’s and women’s collections feature vibrant, multicolored prints, adding excitement to any outfit.

Etica

As a leader in ethical and sustainable denim, Etica creates responsible pants you can feel good wearing. The Los Angeles-based label crafts refined high-waisted jeans with vintage-style washes. The collection includes wide-leg pants with front patch pockets, cropped flared jeans, and pintuck jeans, each adding a retro vibe to any ensemble.

Alice + Olivia

What started as a collection of brightly colored low-rise pants soon became a full-fledged apparel line that catapulted Alice + Olivia into fame. The pants selection is defined by minimalist details, such as subtle pleats, slits, and front seams. Whether it’s a glamorous pair of high-waisted satin cargo pants or sophisticated vegan leather trousers, options abound for every occasion.

rag & bone

Uncompromising in its high-quality garments, rag & bone has created an aesthetic that combines classic British tailoring with modern design elements. The Nina Leather High-Rise Pants offer timely style in a flattering, understated shape. The cinched waist gives the pants a daring-yet-playful appearance that pairs well with fitted tops, blazers, and sleek heels.

Vince

Vince is renowned for its comfortable designs and luxe fabrics. The label infuses California ease into each of its simple and refined garments. The High-Waist Wide-Leg Satin Pants come in a gorgeous truffle brown, perfect for fall and winter ensembles. The streamlined design features an elasticized waistband and an invisible side zipper to offer a snug fit.

MOTHER

The carefree flair of MOTHER jeans has amassed a sizable cult following in recent years. The brand offers a super high-rise jeans collection containing all the classic silhouettes—bootcut, straight leg, flare leg, skinny, and more. An ankle pants design will draw attention to footwear, while a full-length style keeps it classic.

HOW TO WEAR HIGH-WAISTED PANTS

High-waisted pants are an excellent starting point for an outfit. The proper styling can transition the piece from relaxed to business-casual in minutes. Pull from these six high-rise outfit ideas to add new looks to your weekly repertoire.

Crew-neck + trousers + heels

For an elevated everyday outfit, turn to this refined retro look. Take a fitted navy crew-neck sweater and layer it over light crepe trousers. The outfit needs very little to look polished—try dainty jewelry, such as tennis bracelets or small studs, to add a subtle shine. Add heels for the perfect final touch. 

Turtleneck + cropped pants + dress boots

Cropped pants let statement footwear shine. Try this combination in all-black or with a colored top and cream bottoms. After tucking a fitted turtleneck shirt into the pants, step into a pair of dressy boots. Top off the look with sleek black sunglasses, a puffer vest, and a crossbody bag.

Logo tee + straight-leg pants + sneakers

A vintage-inspired logo T-shirt adds a retro vibe, perfect for concerts and summer festivals. Tuck the tee into your best high-waisted jeans and add white lace-up sneakers, a tote bag, and bold rings.

White T-shirt + linen pants + sandals

Select a cropped boxy tee and matching linen pants to pull off this effortless summer look. Add rustic elements, such as a wicker handbag and straw sun hat, to complement the linen. Complete the ensemble with neutral platform sandals.

Bomber jacket + tank top + super high-waist cargo pants + high-tops

For this edgy streetwear-inspired outfit, begin with a black tank top and ultra high-waisted green cargo pants. Add a coordinating oversized bomber jacket, leaving it unzipped to expose the tank underneath. Emphasize the cool-girl vibe with black high-top sneakers and a chain necklace.

Blazer + button-up shirt + dress pants + loafers

Create an understated business-casual look with black high-waisted dress pants and a matching blazer. Tuck half of a button-up shirt into the front of the dress pants and style the look with chunky loafers. Wear the blazer unbuttoned to achieve a laid-back office appearance.

YOUR GUIDE TO EVERYDAY FASHION

Pants are more than just a wardrobe staple; they can act as the star piece in a daring ensemble. Discover the wide assortment of chinos, pleated pants, joggers, palazzo pants, and more at Neiman Marcus to build your dream wardrobe. For personalized styling tips and outfit recommendations, book a one-on-one in-store or virtual appointment with a Neiman Marcus style advisor.

Seeking inspiration? Explore the editorial archive, where Neiman Marcus provides insight on the latest designer pieces and styling tips. Now that we’ve introduced high-waisted pants, learn about five sustainable jeans brands, how to style brown pants, and what footwear to wear with flared jeans.