Zella Crop Pants

Everything You Need to Know Before Making Your Purchase

Finding the perfect pair of athletic crop pants that are both stylish and functional can feel like an impossible task. With so many options on the market, it’s tough to know which brand truly delivers on comfort, performance, and looks.

After extensive research and testing, I can confidently say that Zella crop pants check all the boxes. Zella is Nordstrom’s in-house activewear brand, renowned for its innovative fabrics and flattering fits. In this comprehensive buying guide, I’ll tell you everything you need to know before purchasing your Zella crop pants, from fit and features to cost and care.

A Quick Intro to Zella Crop Pants

Zella’s crop pants are designed for versatile wear, easily transitioning from the gym to running errands. They hit just above or below the ankle, providing full mobility while exercising. The mid-rise waist is comfortable without being too constrictive.

These pants are available in a range of styles, from basic solids for everyday wear to fun prints and colorblocking. Most feature side pockets to hold essentials like your phone, keys, or ID. Some styles also have mesh paneling for enhanced breathability during workouts.

The standout feature of Zella crops is the lightweight, stretchy fabric. It’s thick enough to be squat-proof yet breathable to prevent overheating. The four-way stretch provides ease of movement while still keeping its shape.

Putting Zella Crop Pants to the Test: Fit, Feel and Functionality

To provide the most helpful buying advice, I did in-depth testing on the fit, feel and performance of Zella crops. I tried on multiple styles in both my regular size and a size up/down to assess the sizing accuracy. I also wore them for everything from spin class to running errands to evaluate comfort and versatility.

Here’s an overview of my findings:

• True-to-size fit: The waistband and length were spot-on in my regular size. Zella has an accurate size chart to help find your ideal fit. For reference, I’m 5’7” with an athletic build.
• Stretchy yet supportive fabric: The lightweight material moved with me during sweaty workouts and bounce-free runs, providing just the right amount of compression without feeling restrictive.
• Squat-proof opacity: No see-through issues here! The fabric is thick enough to remain opaque from all angles during squats and lunges.
• Quick-drying and breathable: Zella crops wicked away sweat quickly during my hot yoga class. The material didn’t cling when damp and dried fast after class.
• Pockets hold essentials securely: The side pockets easily fit my phone, keys and cards without anything falling out during runs or HIIT workouts.
• High waist stays in place: Even through constant motion, the mid-to-high rise waistband stayed smoothly in place. It passed the jump test without sliding or rolling down.
• Holds shape after long wear: After 8+ hours of wear, these crops kept their structure. No bagging knees or sagging fabric.

So in summary – Zella crop pants live up to their reputation for superior activewear. The fit, feel and performance during exercise and lifestyle wear exceeded my expectations.

An In-Depth Look at the Fabric and Features

Now that we’ve covered fit and function, let’s dive deeper into the materials and design details that make Zella crops stand out.

Lightweight, stretchy and durable fabrics

Most Zella crop pants are made from a blend of nylon and spandex. This delivers lightweight stretch and moisture-wicking performance perfect for active endeavors. Many also contain rayon or modal for additional softness and smoothing properties.

Specific fabric technologies include:

• Luxtreme®: A unique weave that is cool, breathable and UV protective. Provides shape retention and four-way stretch. Great for high intensity training.
• PowerMesh: Mesh paneling on the legs for enhanced breathability and mobility during workouts. Also provides subtle smoothing.
• Velvet: Adds a luxuriously soft feel while maintaining stretch and moisture management. Perfect for cooler weather wear.

Flattering details

Beyond fabric, Zella incorporates design elements that are both functional and figure-flattering:

• Mid-to-high rise waistbands stay put without pinching or squeezing
• Gusseted crotches allow free range of motion in every direction
• Subtle contouring through the hips and rear creates a shapely silhouette
• Ankle-grazing lengths are versatile for wear with both sneakers or heels

Convenient features

• Side pockets fit must-haves like phones, cards and keys
• Hidden waistband pockets provide discreet storage
• Reflective details like logo strips and piping keep you visible in low light

Trend-driven colors and prints

Zella crops come in a wide range of solids from basic black to vibrant hues. They also offer fun prints from abstract paneled designs to photo-realistic botanicals. This makes it easy to find a pair that matches your personal style.

Now that you know the details that set Zella crop pants apart, let’s talk about the all-important question: how do they fit?

How Zella Crop Pants Should Fit: Find Your Perfect Size

Finding your ideal size is crucial for the perfect flattering yet functional fit. Here are some tips to get the right Zella crop pants size for your body:

• Consult the size chart and measure yourself. Zella’s size chart is spot on, so this is the most accurate way to find your size. Measure your hips and waist, then refer to the chart.
• Stick to your typical size in most cases. I found the sizing to be very true-to-size according to the chart. For numeric sizes, order your regular pant size.
• Size up if between sizes. The fabric has plenty of stretch, but sizing up prevents a too-tight fit. If between sizes, size up for comfort, especially at the waist.
• Consider sizing down for a compressed fit. If you prefer a super sleek, compressed feel, consider sizing down. This works if you’re on the lower end of a size range.
• Try both regular and tall/long lengths. Regular should fit those under 5’8”. Tall/long is best for those over 5’8″ to get full ankle coverage.
• Know that Zella crops run short. The regular length hits just above my ankle bone at 5’7”. Size up for more coverage if you prefer a longer crop.

Following this guidance will ensure you get the ideal tailored yet comfortable fit to take you from the studio to the streets. Next let’s talk about where to buy Zella crops to get the best selection, prices and perks.

Where to Buy Zella Crop Pants: Get the Best Price & Selection

Zella is one of Nordstrom’s exclusive activewear brands, which makes Nordstrom and Nordstrom Rack the best places to shop. Here are all the details on getting the best deals:

Nordstrom for the biggest selection

As Zella’s original retailer, Nordstrom carries the largest assortment of crops. You’ll find all of the newest releases, colors and prints each season. Their selection includes both regular and tall/long inseam lengths.

Nordstrom offers free shipping and free returns to make shopping low-commitment. You can order multiple sizes and lengths to find your perfect fit, then return what doesn’t work for free.

Nordstrom Rack for discounts

For discounted Zella crops, head to Nordstrom Rack. They carry previous season colors and prints at a 25-60% discount. The selection is smaller than full-price Nordstrom, but you can score major savings on older styles.

Zella’s website for exclusives

Zella’s own website occasionally offers web-exclusive styles not sold elsewhere. Periodically check for new cropped lengths or unique prints you can’t find at Nordstrom.

Zella also runs promotions like free shipping sitewide or discounts for new email subscribers. Sign up on their site for access to deals.

Department stores and boutiques

Some department stores like Dillard’s, Von Maur and Boscov’s sell a limited range of Zella. You may also find select styles at boutiques. Inventory is minimal compared to Nordstrom, but worth checking if you have store credit.

For the best selection, newest arrivals and lowest prices on Zella crops, Nordstrom and Nordstrom Rack are my top recommendations. Read on for more tips on finding the perfect pair for your needs and style.

Choosing the Best Zella Crops for Your Workouts and Lifestyle

With Nordstrom’s wide selection, there are Zella crops tailored for every activity and aesthetic. Consider what features you need based on how you plan to wear them:

For high intensity training: Look for crops marked intensity, endurance or studio for functional details like moisture wicking, quick drying, stretch retention and chafe-free seams. Swift and vitality fabrics excel for high sweat workouts.

For outdoor running or hiking: Seek out reflective details and UPF 50+ sun protection. Streamline and aqua tech fabrics manage moisture and prevent overheating. Side pockets securely hold essentials.

For lounging and errands: Opt for super soft brushed fabrics, elastic waistbands and decorative details like mesh or colorblocking. The weekend, cozy and velvet collections work well.

For workouts and work: Choose solid versatile colors that transition seamlessly from the gym to the office. Minimalist stealth and spirit styles have subtle performance features.

For yoga: Yoga crops have extra stretch for ease of movement and gusseted crotches that allow deep lunging. Side mesh insets enhance breathability and cooling.

Once you determine your needs, browse the selection for the perfect style, fabric, features and colors to complement your active lifestyle. Read on for more details on sizing, price, reviews and more.

An In-Depth Look at Sizing, Price and Reviews

Finding well-fitting pants you love at a reasonable price point always feels like an accomplishment. Here’s a detailed overview of Zella sizing, pricing and reviews to help you decide which crops are your perfect match:

Size range:

Zella crops come in women’s sizes XXS-XXL, equivalent to 00-20 in numeric sizes. Choose from regular or tall inseams based on your height. Most styles are also available in petite lengths.

Price range:

Expect to pay $59-$89 for full price Zella crops at Nordstrom. Nordstrom Rack prices are deeply discounted 25%-60% off, so you can score crops for as low as $35 there.

Reviews:

Across the board, Zella crops receive rave reviews. Nordstrom shoppers give most styles 4.5+ stars out of 5. Reviews praise the comfortable stretch fabric, flattering fit and great quality. Many love them for both exercise and casual wear.

I scoured the reviews and found a few tips worth mentioning:

• Size down if you want a compressive fit or size up for a relaxed fit.
• The fabric softens further after washing.
• Tall/long inseams work better for those 5’8” and above.
• Darker colors hide sweat better during workouts.

Available Colors and Prints for Every Style

With over two dozen colors and prints available, you’re guaranteed to find a pair of Zella crops that matches your style:

Year-round solids: Black, navy, olive, gray, dark denim – all perfect versatile neutrals. Modern brights like fuchsia, red rock, lunar rock and cherry cola add bold pops of color.

Seasonal limited edition hues: Zella refreshes their color palette each season. Look for of-the-moment shades like lilac, buttercream, turmeric and rust. These sell out quickly.

On-trend prints: From camo and leopard to abstract geometrics and foliage, Zella offers stylish prints. They add flair while still being wearable for exercise.

Timeless basics: For a classic look, white, khaki and light denim crops offer simple style. Pair them with tees or tanks in any season.

With so many colors and patterns, you can build a full collection of Zella crops to mix and match. Read on for tips on putting together stylish workout-to-weekend outfits.

How to Wear Zella Crops for Any Occasion

The versatility of Zella crops makes them easy to dress up or down. Here are my go-to ideas for styling them for any scenario:

For the gym: Match your top and shoe colors to the crops for a coordinated gym outfit. Add a baseball hat and sneakers for a sporty athletic ensemble.

For yoga: Complement with a strappy bralette and strappy sandals. Wrap a light scarf around your hips to transition to mat or meditation time.

For running errands: Pair crops with a relaxed tee or tank and white leather sneakers for casual comfort. Carry a large tote bag for holding all your must-haves.

For travel: Build your travel capsule wardrobe around 2-3 pairs of Zella crops in neutral colors. Mix and match with layers like cardigans, denim jackets and kimono wraps.

For work: Tuck in a sleeveless blouse and add simple flats or loafers for an office-ready look. Heels dress up the look for client meetings and events.

For a night out: Trade sneakers for heeled booties and add some sparkle with delicate jewelry and a satin cami or bustier. Finish with a moto jacket or faux fur vest.

See – the styling possibilities are truly endless with Zella crop pants! Now let’s compare them to similar brands on the market.

How Zella Crops Compare to Popular Competing Brands

Zella crops go toe-to-toe with leading activewear brands when it comes to quality, performance and style. Here’s an overview of how they stack up against key competitors:

vs. Lululemon: On par in terms of fabric technology, moisture wicking and stretch retention. Zella has more styles and colors available at a lower price point. Lululemon edges out in brand cache.

vs. Athleta: Comparable in quality and function. Zella has more trend-driven prints and colors while Athleta focuses on neutrals and basics. Athleta is pricier on average.

vs. Outdoor Voices: Zella has superior stretch and retention. Outdoor Voices offers more loungewear-focused styles and smaller size range. Zella has better pricing.

vs. Nike: Very similar functional features suited for training and running. Nike has more performance-specific designs. Zella has more lifestyle-oriented looks and sizes.

vs. Old Navy: Old Navy crops are budget-friendly but mimic Zella’s style. The fabric and construction quality of Zella is miles above Old Navy. You get what you pay for!

While personal preferences vary, Zella crops hold their own against pricier, designer activewear labels. The combination of quality, performance, fit, style and price point is hard to beat.

Understanding the Ins and Outs of Zella Crops

By now you know the fabric, features and fit of Zella crops inside and out. But a few finer details warrant more explanation. Here’s the scoop on the waistband, pockets, inseams and gussets:

Waistband: Most Zella crops have a wide, mid-to-high rise waistband measuring approx. 9-11” from top to bottom. It’s designed to provide coverage and stay in place without squeezing. Some styles have a decorative external drawcord to cinch and adjust the fit.

Pockets: Nearly all Zella crops have side hip pockets measuring approx. 6-7” wide to hold essentials securely. Some also have an additional zippered pocket along the back waistband for cards or keys.

Inseams: Regular length crops have a 28-30” inseam, tall/long is 31-33”. Petite crops measure 25-27”. This ankle-grazing length provides full mobility.

Gussets: Select workout-focused styles feature a diamond or square-shaped gusset at the crotch. This allows wider range of motion and reduces chafing in high friction areas.

These finer details all contribute to the exceptional functionality of Zella crops. Now let’s talk about how to care for them and make them last.

Caring for Your Zella Crops: Washing, Drying and Storage

Investing in quality activewear is worthwhile, as long as you care for it properly. Here are my top tips for keeping your Zella crops looking and performing their best:

Read the care tag: While most Zella can be machine washed and dried, always check the tag for specific instructions. Some styles require hang drying or delicate cycles.

Wash cold and gentle: Warm water can wear down performance fabrics. Use the cold/cool setting on a delicate or gentle cycle. This preserves the material integrity.

Skip the dryer: Tumble drying can degrade elasticity over time. Lay flat or hang to dry instead. Hanging also minimizes wrinkles.

Use a delicates bag: Place crops in a mesh bag before washing. This prevents snags, pulls and other damage from zippers and hooks.

Avoid harsh detergents: Stick to mild liquid detergents, not powders. Skip the bleach and fabric softener, as these coatings can hinder moisture wicking.

Wash similar items together: Group crops in a load with other stretchy, synthetic workout wear. This prevents pulls and pilling.

Remove after cycle ends: As soon as the wash stops, remove crops promptly. This prevents odor retention and creases from setting in.

Following these simple care steps will have your Zella crops looking like new, wash after wash. Read on for some of the top questions about sizing, fit and more.

Frequently Asked Questions About Zella Crops

Here are answers to some of the most common questions women have when purchasing Zella crops:

What is the difference between the regular and tall/long lengths?

The regular inseam is 28-30”. The tall/long is 31-33”. Choose tall if you are over 5’8” for full ankle coverage.

Should I size up for a looser fit?

Yes, you may want to size up from your regular size if you prefer a more relaxed fit through the hips and thighs. The 4-way stretch provides room while retaining shape.

How transparent are lighter colors like white?

The Zella fabric is substantial enough that white crops are squat-proof. They don’t show underwear lines.

Can I wear Zella crops to both work out and work?

Definitely! Many women wear them from the gym to running errands or commuting to the office. They transition seamlessly.

How long do Zella crops last with regular wear?

With proper care, Zella crops retain their fit, stretch and performance for several years of regular wear. The quality is quite durable.

I hope these tips help you find your perfect pair of Zella crops! Let me know in the comments if you have any other questions.

The Final Take: Why Zella Crops Are Worth the Investment

After comprehensively evaluating fit, function, style and quality, I can wholeheartedly recommend Zella as the crop pants brand that does it all. While not the cheapest option, Zella crops deliver serious value at their moderate price point.

For me, the decision to invest in Zella crops came down to these factors:

• Flattering fit for every body: The tailored yet forgiving cut looks great on all frame shapes and sizes.
• All-day comfort: The stretchy fabric moves with you whether lounging or training hard. No constriction or pulling.
• Worry-free performance: Sweat-wicking and quick-drying with opaque coverage. I stay cool and confident.
• Versatile style: So many colors and prints fit my aesthetic, easily dressing up or down.
• Durable quality: Zella crops last for multiple seasons of frequent wear. They maintain their integrity wash after wash.
• Trusted reputation: With rave reviews and die-hard fans, the brand has earned my trust.

While everyone’s needs and budget differ, I firmly believe the Zella crop pants live up to their reputation and cost. If you’re willing to invest in a single pair of crops that can take you anywhere with ease and comfort, Zella won’t disappoint. Hopefully this guide brought you closer to finding your perfect pair! Let me know in the comments once you get your hands on the Zella crops of your dreams.