6 Things That Surprised Me as a Denim Designer for Tall Women

in Jul 20, 2025

When I set out to create Stand Tall Jeans, I knew I wanted to design stylish, comfortable jeans specifically for tall women—like me—who are tired of settling for denim that doesn't fit. But nothing prepared me for how technical (and emotional) the journey would be.

If you’ve ever struggled to find jeans that actually fit your height, read on—because what I learned might surprise you, too.


1. Not All Denim Is Created Equal

I used to think all denim was the same—but it's not. The fabric you choose can completely change how a pair of jeans feels, fits, and lasts.

For tall women’s jeans, I’ve found that mid-weight denim (around 12–14 oz) with a little stretch (usually 1–2% elastane) gives the perfect balance. It holds its shape, doesn’t sag, and works well with longer inseams.


2. Fit Isn’t Just About Size

You can’t just make jeans longer and call them “tall.” That doesn’t work.

Tall women often need:

  • A longer front rise

  • A properly placed knee break

  • Adjusted hip-to-waist ratios

If these aren’t right, the jeans feel uncomfortable or look awkward. That’s why I created special patterns made just for tall bodies—not just lengthened versions of standard ones.


3. The Fashion Industry Still Overlooks Tall Women

Most brands stop at a ~34” inseam, and anything longer is usually hard to find or poorly made.

That’s why I launched Stand Tall Jeans with 36” and 38” inseam options. Tall women shouldn’t have to settle—we deserve jeans made with our height in mind from the start.


4. Designing Jeans Can Be Deeply Emotional

I expected to deal with fabric and measurements—but I didn’t expect the emotional impact of creating jeans that truly fit tall women.

At pop-ups and fittings, I’ve had women tear up because they finally found jeans that made them feel seen. It’s a reminder that great design is about more than looks—it’s about confidence and feeling comfortable in your own skin.


5. Grading Patterns for Tall Isn’t Just “Add Inches”

This one really surprised me: You can’t just extend the leg and call it done.

Making long inseam denim requires technical pattern adjustments—like shifting the knee break, adjusting the yoke, and realigning the grainline. If you don’t, the jeans won’t drape right and can feel tight in weird places or sag in others.

Every size and inseam has to be balanced properly to keep the fit sleek and flattering.


6. Feedback from Tall Women Has Been My Greatest Teacher

No matter how much testing you do, real feedback from customers is what really shapes the product.

Thanks to honest reviews, DMs, and conversations with tall women at events, I’ve been able to tweak important design elements. Listening to the tall community has helped me grow as a designer—and make better jeans for all of us.


Final Thoughts

Designing jeans for tall women is more than a job—it’s a mission. I’ve learned that the right fit, the right fabric, and the right intention can truly change how someone feels in their own body.

At Stand Tall Jeans, we believe that tall women deserve better denim. That’s why every style we offer is built from the ground up—with long inseams, tall-friendly proportions, and thoughtful details that make you feel confident from the inside out.

 

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