Q: Once and for all, who can wear cropped pants, and how do you do it right?

A: Capris, pedal pushers, high-waters—whatever you want to call them, pants that hit above the ankle tend to shorten your frame, which is why petites struggle with the look.

But women of any height can wear them by focusing on creating the longest line possible: Stick to plain, straight-leg versions, à la Jackie O., free of cuffs, bulky pockets, and other bells and whistles.

Add height with wedges or slingback heels, or try flats with elongating pointy toes. (If you prefer open-toes, keep your pedicure neutral.)

Make sure your blouse falls below the waist, and add a blazer or belt in similar tones—short, boxy shirts and contrasting colors interrupt your silhouette.

From Left to Right: Pants, $70; express.com. Blazer, Express, $80, express.com. Blouse, Rebecca Taylor, $275, bloomingdales.com. Wedge, Tory Burch, $275, toryburch.com. Flat, Coye Nokes, $245, coyenokes.com. Heel, Sam Edelman, $115, zappos.com. Pants, $88; anntaylor.com. Blouse, Talbots, $99, talbots.com. Necklace, Sequin, $275, 312-224-4859. Belt, Chinese Laundry $43, belgolux.com.

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