Capris Are Back — Here’s How To Wear Them in Fresh Ways

With so many fashion trends from Y2K and the early aughts making their way back into the mainstream, it was only a matter of time before capris reentered the conversation. Created in 1948 by German fashion designer Sonja de Lennart, capri pants were popularized in the ’50s and ’60s with fitted and often-patterned pedal pushers and mid-calf-length pants. In the early 2000s, fitted denim capris — cuffs or no cuffs — and flowy gauchos were the go-to looks for cropped pants.

Capris offer greater coverage than shorts or short skirts while still being breezier than traditional long pants. However, as with nearly every other 2000s trend that has made its way back into the fold, there is some controversy over whether capris are worth revisiting. But the resurgence of capri pants has brought with it new tips and tricks to keep your cropped outfits balanced, chic, and modern. 

Fear not: There’s no need to relive the cringe-fest that was the brightly colored gauchos and flip-flops of the mid-2000s. Here are some of the best ways to revisit the capri trend while keeping your look fresh and refined. 

1. Ease Into the Trend With Wide-Legged Culottes 

Not quite sure if you’re ready to dive into the capri trend yet again? No problem. Wide-legged culottes are an easy capri option with a breezy, effortless feel. A half-unbuttoned vest and strappy sandals (as styled by creator Francesca Saffari) keep this look modern and chic. Saffari showed off her look with linen culottes, but denim or white pants are other great alternatives. Another plus to wearing culottes: The ultra-wide leg makes these pants one of the roomiest, comfiest options on our list.  

2. Wear ’Em Like Biker Shorts

Biker shorts with oversized tees and sweaters have been fashionable for decades, á la the late Princess Diana, and fitted pedal pushers present an opportunity to take this sporty-chic look in a new direction. Los Angeles-based Trice Boutique offers a perfect example with this monochromatic look featuring an oversized black tee, fitted black pedal pushers, and adorable kitten-heeled sandals. Pedal pushers provide slightly more coverage than biker shorts, and those extra few inches in length make all the difference when it comes to creating a stylish and comfortable look.

3. Go Vintage With Patterned Pedal Pushers 

A slight variation to the previous look, patterned pedal pushers offer the same mid-leg silhouette but with a retro flair. Capris like these black-and-white checkered pedal pushers worn by creator Maggie McCormack pair beautifully with strappy high heels that help lengthen the leg. For an extra contemporary touch, add an asymmetrical top, tousled updo, and leather shoulder bag. 

4. Add Fancy Shoes

In the early 2000s, capri pants were usually paired with a pair of sneakers or flip-flops. The capri styling now is a bit more elevated. Pair your cropped denim with dainty heels, such as these red, pointed-toe slingbacks worn by creator Dani Acevedo. After all, your pants aren’t hiding your shoes, so  why not jump on the opportunity to really show them off? A slicked-back bun and minimalistic jewelry further elevate this simple yet stunning look. 

5. Slip On Ballet Flats

When you don’t want to wear heels but still want to look put-together, the shoe-of-the-season is the perfect addition: ballet flats. Go for a trendy mesh pair, edgy buckle details, or a classic round-toe. The look evokes Audrey Hepburn in the best way.

6. Add Tights 

In the cooler months, capri pants can still work well with a pair of sheer black tights underneath. It’s a new way to wear dress pants — one that feels trendy without being over-the-top. We love the look with a matching jacket for a decidedly 2024 work outfit.