Sorry, I'm petite, 5' 1" and not young either, but I love low rise. It's very flattering on me. I am not sure how low rise clothes would cause your abs to look big, ah, unless they are big. I mean, if your abs are protruding over the top of low rise pants, they are still going to be protruding in a higher waist, just smooshed into them! I can't stand the feeling of anything constricting my waist. I don't wear pants or skirts that show anything, but it feels right when they are sitting on my hips. You have to find brands that are made for grown ups to avoid the crack showing look.