What is “Rise?”

When it comes to dressing well, balance and proportion are key. Just like in life, maintaining a healthy balance is essential to our overall success and happiness. This principle applies to all aspects of our lives, including the clothes we wear. In this article, we will explore the concept of “rise” and its significance in the world of pants.

Understanding Pant Rise

Before diving into the details, let’s start by defining what exactly “rise” means. In simple terms, rise refers to where you wear your pants in relation to your natural waist. It is also a measurement that determines the height at which your custom trousers will sit on your waist.

It is important to note that many men are misinformed about the location of their waists. Ready-to-wear casual pants, such as jeans or chinos, typically have low rises. These pants are designed to sit around your hips, not your natural waist. This misconception can lead to ill-fitting trousers and an unflattering silhouette.

Finding Your Natural Waist

Contrary to popular belief, your body’s natural waist is higher than your hips. It is located closer to your belly button, just underneath your rib cage. Proper dress trousers should sit just below this area for the most flattering fit.

Low Rises, High Rises, and Body Types

Low-rise pants have been popular for the past two decades, coinciding with the casualization of dress codes. These pants sit on or below the hips. On the other hand, high-rise pants have waistbands that sit closer to the natural waist, typically about an inch below the navel.

As a general rule, low-rise trousers are better suited for taller men, while high-rise trousers are more flattering for shorter men. High-rise pants have the visual effect of elongating the legs, creating the illusion of height. Taller men may not necessarily need this visual enhancement, while shorter men can benefit from the extra lengthening effect.

This is especially true for suits, where the correct rise of the pants complements the jacket, creating a seamless and polished look. It helps shorter men mitigate their height and ensures a clean and proportionate appearance.

While personal preference plays a role in choosing the pant rise, the goal is always to find a balance that complements the individual and suits the garment. For jeans, a low rise may be appropriate regardless of height, if that is the desired style. However, extreme rises that resemble those from the 1930s are generally not recommended.

Remember, just like in life, balance is key when it comes to pant rise.

Conclusion

Choosing the right rise for your pants is essential to achieving a polished and flattering appearance. If you want to improve your image and style, we are here to help. Contact us at 215-310-0219 or email [email protected] to start a conversation. And don’t forget to explore our other articles on image and style, such as “The Return of the Pleat,” “What Are English Side Straps?,” and “Braces vs. Belts.”