We have all been there. You see a cute pair of pants online. The model looks great. You order your size.
When the package arrives, you are excited. You try them on. But suddenly, you are drowning in fabric. The pants are dragging on the floor. Or worse, they look like capris when they should be full-length.
You sigh. Now you have to print a return label. You have to go to the post office. It is a waste of time.
Why does this happen? Usually, it is not because you picked the wrong waist size. It is because you ignored the most important number: The Inseam.
The inseam is the secret to shopping online successfully. It tells you exactly where the hem will hit.
In this guide, I will show you how to measure it in less than two minutes. You only need a tape measure and your favorite pair of pants.
Let’s get started.
What Exactly is an Inseam?
First, let's keep it simple. What are we measuring?
The inseam is the distance from the crotch seam (where the four pieces of fabric meet between your legs) down to the very bottom edge of the leg (the hem).
It is not the total length of the pants. It is just the inner leg length. This is the number that decides if pants will fit your height.
Method 1: The Easiest Way (Measure Your Pants)
This is the most accurate method for beginners.
Do not try to measure your own body while standing up. It is awkward. You will bend over, and the number will be wrong. Instead, measure a pair of pants you already own.
Step 1: Find Your "Perfect" Pants Go to your closet. Find a pair of pants that fits you perfectly lengthwise.
Step 2: Lay Them Flat Place the pants on a table or the floor. Smooth out any wrinkles. Make sure the legs are straight.
Step 3: Find the Crotch Seam Locate the point where the leg seams meet in the middle. Put the metal end of your tape measure right on that stitching.
Step 4: Measure to the Hem Run the tape measure down the inside of the leg. Stop at the very bottom edge.
Step 5: Write It Down That number is your inseam. If it says 28 inches, then look for "28 inseam" or "Short" when you shop online.
Method 2: Measuring Your Body (If You Don’t Have Pants)
Use this method if you are buying pants for a totally new style.
You will need a friend to help you with this one.
Stand up straight with your back against a wall.
Wear the shoes you plan to wear with the new pants.
Have your friend measure from the very top of your inner thigh (crotch) down to where you want the pants to end.
Stand still. Do not look down, or the measurement will change!
Important: Consider the Shoe Height
This is a rookie mistake. Your inseam changes depending on your shoes.
For Skinny Jeans: You want them to hit the ankle bone.
For Bootcut/Flared Jeans: They need to be longer to cover your shoes.
Pro Tip: If you wear 3-inch heels, add roughly 2 inches to your regular inseam measurement for wide-leg pants.
General Inseam Chart by Height (Cheat Sheet)
Every body is different. Some people have long torsos and short legs. Others have long legs. But here is a general guide to help you start.
Height 5’0” - 5’3”: Look for 25" to 27" inseam (Often "Petite" or "Short").
Height 5’4” - 5’7”: Look for 28" to 30" inseam (Standard/Regular).
Height 5’8” and up: Look for 31" to 34" inseam (Often "Tall" or "Long").
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Recommended Read: Best Jeans for Short and Curvy Women (Top 7 Picks)
Recommended Read: The Ultimate Guide to Mid-Size Fashion Trends
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Resource: [Printable Tape Measure (PDF) if you don't have one]
Resource: [WikiHow: Visual Guide to Measuring Pants]
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Does the material change the inseam? A: Yes! Denim with cotton shrinks. Leggings stretch. Always read the fabric description. If it is 100% cotton, buy it slightly longer.
Q: Can I measure the outer leg instead? A: No. That is called the "Outseam." It includes the waistband height. Most online stores only list the Inseam. Stick to the inner leg.
Conclusion
Shopping online doesn't have to be a gamble.
Once you know your magic number, you can filter your search results. You will stop buying pants that need expensive tailoring. You will stop waiting in line at the post office for returns.
Go grab your tape measure right now. It takes two minutes, but it will save you hours of frustration later.
Do you have a favorite brand that always fits your length perfectly? Share it in the comments below!
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