I realized when I first wanted to try these pants that I wasn’t sure what size to get, and I couldn’t find a helpful review online. Then I thought, why don’t I write a helpful review? So here’s that review, the first of what is likely to be many!

Today I’m reviewing the High Waist Pants from Zara (item 7901/432).

My sizing/fit information:

My usual pants size: 0-2/25/XS
I am 5’4” with a 28” inseam (to my ankle bone)
I have a long torso, narrow waist, and proportionally larger butt/hips

I ordered Plum, Mid Green, Oil Slick, Taupe, Oyster White, Pink, Mint in XS and S.

These pants are high waisted, have a front zip with inside hook and button closures, pleated legs, darts on front and back, and welt pockets (arrive sewn shut, can be opened so they’re functional).

The rise measures 12” and hits me at the bottom of my rib cage.

The fit of the leg is somewhere between straight and slim (not wide or skinny). The inseam is 26.5” and hits right around my ankle, which I like.

The Zara size chart estimated I was somewhere between XS and S. They have a good return policy (and I am good at returns), so I ordered both sizes. It was a good thing I did because each color fits a little bit differently.

Plum: XS was *tight*, S was perfect; looks more red in pictures, but it’s definitely on the purple spectrum
Mid-green: XS was too small, S was perfect; lovely dark evergreen that’s on the blue side
Taupe brown: S was *huge*, XS was perfect; very nice taupe brown/khaki color
Oyster white: XS was too tight, S was a little bit big but doable; slightly warm off-white
Oil slick: XS was too tight, S was perfect; expected warm camel but it’s definitely more of a brown olive or olive brown
Pink: neither XS nor S were quite right and the color wasn’t what I wanted, so returned both; was hoping it would be a replacement for my pale pink pants (great color but imperfect fit), and it’s much more Pink
Mint: only tried S and it was too big and not the color I wanted, so returned; a little too pale and too green, didn’t tone well with my mint/sage pieces

When the pants fit properly, they zipped up comfortably and rested well, not too tight or gaping. The fit on the butt and legs was skimming, not tight. The smaller sizes were definitely pinchy and felt unpleasant. Overall, I would say they run a bit small, but it depends on 1) the color, and 2) fit preference.

I have worn these pants a lot since I first ordered them, and really enjoy them. I find them very comfortable and stylish. They work well with blouses and my favorite sweaters, and I think they’ll be great with camis and tees in warmer weather. I recommend tucking in tops or wearing shorter/crop tops to contrast the fitted waist with the looser leg. I like this kind of leg with a variety of shoes, from heels to flats to sneakers to booties.

If this style of pants (high waist, slim leg, trouser) interests you, these are definitely worth a try. I would, however, caution you to try multiple sizes for best fit and make use of Zara’s return policy!

Rating: 9/10

(minus one point for size inconsistencies)

Review: High Waist Pants from Zara