NYDJ Jeans Reviews: Must-Try for Petites

nydj petite jeans

Is it possible to give yourself the gift of instant backside confidence? Does such a thing exist!? As a woman who generally tries to conceal/downplay that area of my body, I didn’t think so. However, when I pulled on my first pair of NYDJ petite jeans and turned to get a compulsory check of the rear view… I did a double-take. The silhouette staring back looked taller, sleeker and lifted. Are you combing through NYDJ jeans reviews wondering what the fuss is all about? This post will answer all your FAQs.

The jeans were really flattering – almost transformative.

Was it luck? Or did NYDJ petite jeans have a secret sauce? I remember Oprah putting NYDJ on her Favorite Things list, saying: “These jeans make me look and feel one size smaller.” And she’s not the only fan! Earlier this month, Parade included NYDJ’s among its picks for best straight leg jeans and Kristen Bell rocked NYDJ from head to toe on the Kelly Clarkson Show. So, I decided to put the brand to the test myself – trying four different styles in the NYDJ petite jeans line-up.

As a former competitive gymnast and collegiate cheerleader, jeans have long been a struggle for me (more on that in this post). The brands I grew up with seemed to equate petite with “stick thin” – leaving 4’11 gals like me with precious few options. If I was lucky enough to find a pair capable of slipping over my muscular thighs, it would gape at the waist. Then there’s the length factor. I always had to cut a good 3-4″ off each leg. Thankfully, denim is much more inclusive these days. In fact, brands like NYDJ are intentional about it.

NYDJ jeans reviews honest take on petite denimBarbara Bootcut Jeans | Blouse

About the Brand – NYDJ Jeans Reviews

NYDJ has a fit-first mindset and makes that approach abundantly clear on its website. Though on-trend style is a focus, the company is equally concerned about comfort. You won’t find rough, restrictive denim here. Rather, NYDJ’s premium stretch jeans offer flexibility and freedom of movement (as you can see in the pic above), while the Lift Tuck® Technology hidden inside your denim sculpts your curves. I know that sounds a little sci-fi or surgical… However, you can see the simple figure-flattering solution below.

According to NYDJ, the proprietary crisscross slimming panel flattens the front while contouring the back. The brand offers denim options for women of all shapes, sizes and ages. You can see this in the company’s mission statement and its prominent fit quiz. NYDJ carries petite, plus and tall silhouettes. Most styles are available in sizes from 00-18, with plus sizes 14w-28w.

Disclosure: NYDJ sent me these jeans to photograph and for the purpose of this NYDJ jeans review. It is not paying me to write this blog post. Rather, I am writing this to help you make more informed shopping choices in the often tricky world of denim. 

lift tuck technology nydjnydj petite jeans honest reviewBarbara Bootcut Jean

NYDJ Petite Jeans Fit Review


Do you size down in NYDJ?

The brand says its denim is designed to fit snuggly. Consequently, it encourages you to order a size down from what you normally buy. However, to ensure I could offer you a complete perspective on fit in this NYDJ jeans review, I ordered both a size down and my normal size. In the photos above, I am wearing my standard size [a 2p – my measurements are 33/26/36] in the Barbara Bootcut Jean.

While I liked the fit and thought it looked nice in photos, I agree with the brand’s recommendation. The 2p was great; the 0p was amazing! It molded to my frame and seemed to hold everything in place. The denim maintained its shape through day-long wear. I am wearing the 0p in the lighter wash denim pictured below (the Marilyn straight).

NYDJ Marilyn Jeans


NYDJ jeans reviews marilyn straight

In terms of length, NYDJ denim seems just right for the petite crowd. For example, the hem of the Barbara bootcut was perfect with my favorite heels – as was the Marilyn straight jean. However, I ended up cutting off my Marilyn straight because I wanted an ankle length style. Somehow I completely missed the fact that NYDJ has a Marilyn in ankle length! Oops – At least you won’t make my mistake!

While we’re on the topic, let’s dig into the Marilyn straight for a second… 

After wearing this pair, I’d have to say I am not surprised the Marilyn Straight Jeans are NYDJ’s most popular. I am quite tempted to scoop up this pair in a darker wash because it elongates your leg line like none other!

These jeans hug your hips, streamlining your shape while making the most of your curves. Consequently, it’s the most talked about in NYDJ jeans reviews. The straight cut is an excellent option for skinny jean addicts who want to venture into a more contemporary silhouette. It’s the perfect baby step toward switching it up. You can snag the Marilyn for under $100.

NYDJ review coated leather

Looking for something a bit more edgy?

NYDJ has a coated version of the Marilyn Straight that offers the look of faux leather pants, but with more practicality. These are incredibly comfortable and also have the slimming crisscross panel. The styling is five-pocket with a zip fly and button closure. These are super popular, so petite sizing is almost sold out. There are regular and plus sizes still available.

nydj petite jeans coated marilyn

In terms of fit, this is the one NYDJ petite jeans style I would recommend NOT sizing down in. Although coating of the fabric is beautiful, its light-reflecting properties are less forgiving than a traditional dark denim. Painted on leather isn’t the look I’m going for. Consequently, I am wearing the 2p in these photos and thought the fit was ideal – particularly if you have larger thighs, like me.

The top I am wearing is also from NYDJ. This is the modern blouse in cocoa grove. There are 8 other colorways available. What I love about this piece is the fact that NYDJ carries it in XXS. That can be a tough size to find, but is imperative for petites who want a crisp, sharp look. Blouses are often too voluminous for my frame and can overwhelm it. This classic, collared blouse offers a romantic, yet streamlined look. Best of all, the fabric is a sustainable polyester fiber made from 100% post-consumer plastic waste.

NYDJ review best jeans for petitesMargot Girlfriend Jean | Sweater | Heels

NYDJ Petite Jeans Review – Margot Girlfriend Jean

The final pair I tried was a departure for me, the Margot Girlfriend Jean. I’ve been pretty stuck in my skinny jeans and always feared a relaxed fit would look dowdy on my 4’11 frame. The Margot proved me wrong…  and it looks like other petite ladies agree with me! Petite sizes are going fast in the Margot, while regular sizing is still available.

Unlike a lot of girlfriend jeans, the fit of the Margot is slouchy, not sloppy. You look laid back, but don’t lose your shape in the process. The rolled cuffs are adjustable. I’m wearing the 2p. If I could do it over again, I’d order the 0p. Definitely size down in the Margot! The inseam with cuffs rolled is 26.5″ – 29″ unrolled.

nydj review best denim for petite women

Who is NYDJ for?


In short? Everyone! NYDJ, which bills itself as the world’s best-fitting jeans, carries sizes and styles that fit women of all ages and body types. I think there may have been a perception in the past that it catered to older women. For those wondering what NYDJ stands for, it initially referenced Not Your Daughters Jeans, but has since refreshed its branding.

While it certainly has cuts mid-life women will adore, NYDJ also has silhouettes women in their 20s would enjoy. And it does more than denim, which is why the old branding was a bit of a disconnect.

I’m a big fan of NYDJ shoes and accessories. It carries everything from laid-back loafers to party-ready pumps. For instance, I have this half moon bag and love the versatility. It’s just the right size for my essentials and amazing quality.

nydj petite jeans

What is the NYDJ shipping and returns policy?

Ground shipping is free, as are returns/exchanges within 30 days of your delivery date. If you want expedited shipping, you can get 2-day delivery for $25 and overnight delivery by the next business day for $35. This applies to physical addresses throughout the United States, including Hawaii and Alaska. NYDJ does not ship internationally.

Where can I get NYDJ jeans?

In addition to its website, you will find NYDJ styles at upscale department stores like Dillard’s, Macy’s and Nordstrom. You can also shop NYDJ via its Amazon storefront. If you shop via Amazon, make sure you are landing on the actual NYDJ store. Based on my experience and some other NYDJ jeans reviews I’ve read, there are third-party sellers out there attempting to mimic NYDJ products.

nydj petite jeans reviews

Final thoughts?


I feel like my “happy face” says it all. NYDJ has quickly become my go-to denim brand. In fact, it’s reshaping my attitude about denim, because its styles are so darn comfortable. I’m finding myself reaching for jeans a lot more often these days… After trying four different styles of NYDJ petite jeans and two tops, I am thoroughly impressed and would 10 out of 10 recommend.

Are there any remaining questions this NYDJ jeans review didn’t answer? Please let me know below!

Leave A Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *