High-rise (fashion)

High-rise, in fashion, refers to garments designed to sit at or above the natural waistline. This style is primarily associated with pants, skirts, and shorts, but can also apply to other clothing items like swimwear bottoms.

The defining characteristic of high-rise garments is their waistband placement. Unlike low-rise styles which sit significantly below the waist, or mid-rise styles which sit at the hips, high-rise designs extend upwards, often covering the navel. The height can vary, with some styles reaching just above the natural waist and others extending several inches higher.

The popularity of high-rise styles has fluctuated throughout history. It enjoyed periods of favor in the 1940s and 1970s, and experienced a resurgence in the late 2010s and 2020s. The style is often chosen for its perceived ability to elongate the legs and define the waist.

The term "high-waisted" is frequently used interchangeably with "high-rise" in the context of fashion.