Are H&M Jeans Good for Tall Women? A Stylist's Honest Review

The Reality of H&M's Tall Range

Let's be brutally honest here – H&M's approach to tall sizing feels like an afterthought rather than a carefully considered range. Whilst they do offer some styles in longer lengths online, the selection is frustratingly limited compared to their regular range. You'll find yourself scrolling through pages of gorgeous styles only to discover they don't come in tall sizes.

The Swedish retailer's tall jeans typically add just 5cm to the inseam, which frankly isn't enough for women over 5'8". If you're 5'10" or taller, you'll still find yourself dealing with ankle-skimming hems that look more like cropped styles than full-length jeans. I've had countless clients come to me after disappointing H&M purchases, frustrated by the lack of proper proportioning.

What Works (And What Doesn't)

When H&M gets it right, their tall jeans offer decent value for money. Their high-waisted straight-leg styles in the tall range can work well for women between 5'6" and 5'9", particularly if you prefer a slightly cropped look that hits just above the ankle bone. The denim quality, whilst not premium, holds up reasonably well for the price point.

However, the fit often feels generic rather than tailored for tall proportions. The rise isn't adjusted proportionally – so whilst the leg length increases, you might find the waist hits at an awkward spot on your torso. The back pockets are often positioned too low, creating an unflattering silhouette that can make your legs appear shorter than they actually are.

Styling Tips for Tall Women in H&M Jeans

If you do decide to try H&M tall jeans, here's how to make them work:

Go for the boyfriend or relaxed fits – these styles are more forgiving with proportions and the slightly looser cut can help balance out any awkward length issues. Pair them with chunky trainers or boots to add visual weight at the bottom.

Embrace the cropped look intentionally – if the "full length" jeans hit you at an awkward three-quarter length, style them as deliberate crops with pointed-toe boots or sophisticated loafers. This way, it looks intentional rather than ill-fitting.

Layer strategically – longer tops and jackets can help create better proportions when the jean's rise isn't quite right. A long blazer or oversized shirt can balance out any torso-shortening effects from poorly positioned waistlines.

Better Options for Tall Women

High Street Heroes

ASOS Tall offers genuinely long inseams (up to 38") and actually designs for tall proportions, not just longer legs. Their range is extensive and reasonably priced.

Topshop Tall consistently delivers on both length and style, with on-trend cuts that actually fit tall frames properly.

Monki (another Swedish brand that actually gets tall sizing right) offers quirky, fashion-forward pieces with proper proportions for taller women.

Premium Picks

Ganni – This Danish brand's relaxed fits work beautifully on tall frames, and their commitment to sustainable practices makes them worth the investment.

Won Hundred – A Copenhagen-based denim specialist that creates incredibly flattering cuts for taller women, with attention to proportional details.

Kings of Indigo – This sustainable Dutch brand offers exceptional quality with inseams up to 36", designed specifically with European tall women in mind.

Luxury Investment Pieces

Totême – Swedish luxury brand offering minimal, perfectly proportioned pieces that elongate rather than shorten tall figures.

Acne Studios – Another Scandinavian favourite with architectural cuts that celebrate height rather than trying to minimise it.

Lemaire – French luxury with exceptional attention to proportions, their wide-leg styles are particularly flattering for tall women.

The Sizing Minefield

One of the biggest challenges with H&M – and many high street brands – is their inconsistent sizing. You might be a size 10 in their regular jeans but need a 12 in their tall range, or vice versa. This inconsistency makes online shopping particularly frustrating, especially when you're already limited in style choices.

I've also noticed that H&M's sizing seems to vary significantly between different jean styles within their tall range. Their skinny jeans run smaller than their straight-leg styles, and don't get me started on the confusion between their "regular waist" and "high waist" measurements.

My Honest Verdict

Whilst H&M jeans aren't terrible for tall women, they're simply not designed with your proportions in mind. You're better off investing in brands that truly understand tall sizing – even if it means spending a bit more initially. The frustration of constantly dealing with too-short inseams and poorly proportioned fits isn't worth the savings.

If budget is your primary concern, I'd recommend waiting for sales from brands like ASOS Tall or checking out vintage and second-hand options from premium brands. Your height is an asset – don't settle for clothes that make you feel like you're apologising for it.

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