Okay, here it is: the truth about cropped pants.
If they are a certain length, they look dreadful . . . they can make us look shorter and heavier. Not good.
The good news, though (there’s always good news! YAY!!!), is that there IS a length you can buy that is flattering, stylish, modern and comfortable.
Let’s take a quick look at both, so you know what I’m talking about.
The “don’t wear” length is slightly above the ankle, as in this photo (from Land’s End): 
Do you see what I mean? This photo is taken from behind, and they make this model look wider than she probably is. WHY DO WE WANT TO DO THAT?
Okay, now let’s take a look at another cropped pant option, also from Land’s End (which, by the way, is a terrific place for lots of things, including cropped pants, knee-length shorts, and bathing suits):
These pants are slightly below the knee, which is an infinitely more flattering length, on just about everyone. And, they don’t flare out at the bottom, like the “don’t wear” ones do.
What to do if you have cropped pants like the “don’t wear” ones above? Bring them to your tailor and have them hemmedto the most flattering part of your leg . . . and that could even be right at your knee. Or, donate them and start over. Everything’s on sale now, so it might be a good idea to stock up on a few pairs for next year.
Here is my favorite pair (from Theory), which I bought on-sale in both tan and white. I live in these during the summer. Pair them with a white tee-shirt, a pair of flats or wedges, and some silver bangles . . . easy, cool, flattering, and . . . and the perfect hot weather outfit.
For more tips on what (and what not) to wear, check out the chapter on style in THE BEST OF EVERYTHING AFTER 50. 
Best of everything,
Barbara