Buying Pants as a Tall Person: Why It Shouldn’t Be This Hard7
You Deserve Better Than Highwaters
If you’re tall, buying pants can feel like hunting for a unicorn. You finally find a pair that fits your waist… but guess what? The length stops at your shins. Cue the flood jokes.
It’s not your fault—mainstream fashion just isn’t built for tall people. But don’t worry, you’re about to get some real solutions.
Why Finding Pants as a Tall Person Is So Difficult
Most off-the-rack pants are made with inseams between 30 to 34 inches, which might work for the average height. But you? You need something longer—maybe 36″, 38″, or even 40″ inseams.
Here’s the reality:
Stores rarely stock long inseams in-person
Online sizing charts are inconsistent
“Tall” doesn’t mean the same thing across brands
Styles often don’t suit tall body proportions
You’re not being picky—you’re just looking for basic comfort and fit.
What to Look For in Pants as a Tall Person
Let’s make shopping easier. Here’s what you need to prioritize:
1. Inseam Length
Know your inseam down to the inch. Measure from crotch to floor.
Tall men: Look for inseams 36″ and up
Tall women: Aim for 34″ to 38″ depending on your shoes
2. Rise & Proportions
Tall bodies often need a higher rise to prevent the waistband from sitting too low.
3. Fabric Stretch
A touch of stretch can give more comfort and flexibility, especially if you have long legs that move a lot.
4. Tailorability
If you find something close, make it perfect. A good tailor is your secret weapon.
Best Brands for Long Inseam Pants (Finally!)
For Tall Men:
American Tall – Built only for tall guys. Inseams go up to 40”.
Banana Republic (Tall) – Offers dress pants and chinos in 36–38” inseams.
Levi’s – Classic jeans available in tall-friendly cuts and sizes.
Gap (Tall) – Stylish casual options up to 38” inseam.
ASOS Tall – Trendy and affordable options made for tall frames.
For Tall Women:
Long Tall Sally – The OG brand for tall women (everything long).
Madewell Tall – Offers jeans and pants with up to 36” inseam.
Old Navy (Tall) – Affordable everyday styles with decent length.
Alloy Apparel – Great for fashion-forward tall girls.
NYDJ Tall – Perfect for workwear and denim that actually fits.
Tips to Shop Smart Online
Use size filters like “Tall” or “Long Inseam” right away
Check return policies (just in case)
Read reviews from other tall customers
Take your inseam, waist, and rise measurements before you buy
Real Talk: You Don’t Have to Settle
You shouldn’t have to wear pants that look like capris unless you want to. With the right brands and shopping strategy, you can find pants that fit, flatter, and feel amazing.
Key Takeaways
Standard pants rarely work if you’re over 6 feet tall
Always know your inseam and rise measurements
Shop from tall-specific brands or tall collections
Don’t be afraid to tailor for the perfect fit
Say no to ankle-baring highwaters (unless it’s a vibe)
FAQ
Q: What inseam is considered “tall”?
A: Anything 36 inches and above for men, 34 inches and above for women.
Q: Should I shop only from tall-specific stores?
A: Not necessarily. Many mainstream brands now offer tall lines—just make sure to check the size chart carefully.
Q: How do I know if pants are too short?
A: If they hover above your ankle when standing straight—or worse, when sitting—they’re too short.
