How To Wear Capri Pants

Capri pants, culottes, pedal pushers. Whatever you call them, you may have noticed they are creeping back into our summer wardrobes. Just like many of the Y2K fashion trends that fashion folk vowed they would never return.

The slim-fit style was designed by Sonja de Lennart in 1948. However, it wasn’t until the late 50s that they grew in popularity after becoming beloved by Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn, and Brigette Bardot. They made a brief resurgence in the noughties, and now have once again made their way onto the runway. For spring summer 2024, brands including 3.1 Phillip Lim, Coperni, Casablanca, Jacquemus, and Ferragamo all showcased the shortened trousers. Perhaps suggesting capri pants could become a summer closet staple.

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(L-R: Ferragamo, 3.1 Phillip Lim)

According to Stylight, there has been a 56% increase in demand for capri pants in comparison to this time last year. So, if you’re debating whether you should invest in a pair, you are certainly not alone.

The tricky part is knowing how to style them while still looking chic…

1950s glamour

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There’s a reason why the likes of Audrey Hepburn and Brigette Bardot are still seen as fashion icons today. If you are tempted to try the capri pants trend, then there is no better reference point than where it all began. Keep it simple and sleek and style a pair of classic black capris with an equally classic slim-fitted, long-sleeved top. It’s also a great way to emphasise your silhouette!

Oversized blazer and bralette

One of the chicest ways you can style capri pants is with a bralette and oversized blazer. Just look to Coperni SS24 if you don’t believe me! Finished off with a pair of open-toe mules and this would make a stunning evening ensemble.

2000s

We may not be at the point where we will be seeing capri pants on the red carpet (and hopefully never will again.) But that doesn’t mean that we can’t take some inspiration from how they were styled in the noughties.

Early-2000s capri pant style was the perfect mix of casual and edgy. Rihanna, JLO, and Christina Aguilera in particular were fans of this style and often opted for baggy, low-waisted pants with a casual tank or crop top.

Like a Hadid

There’s nothing the Hadid sisters could wear that wouldn’t immediately catch on and spiral into the latest fashion trend. Capri pants are no exception. Both Bella and Gigi have been seen sporting the look– both opting for a denim pair. If you really want to channel Y2K, take inspiration from Bella and go full double denim. Or tone it down and pair your denim capris with a simple vest like Gigi. This a great way to ease into the trend as denim capri pants are not too dissimilar to something I am sure you already wear; jeans.