How to Wear the 2011 Spring Ankle or Capri Pant

Hello Glam Gals,

Just a quick question. I am seeing many of the ankle length pants for Spring & Summer. I think this length would be a more flattering look for me, as opposed to Capris. My question is what heel height would work? Or do you have to wear flats with this length. I see the models in 4 inch heels, but being 53 yrs. old,  3- inch is more my style.

Many Thanks,

Jennell S Thornton

Hi Jennell,

Great question!  Yes, Capri pants, that many of us have been so in love with for the past few years as a super alternative to shorts, are now starting to feel dated. This is especially true if you try to wear the older ones that have the wide legs.

You can certainly do a 3 inch heel vs. these high ones shown here, but flats are fine too.

If you do  a heel, we feel a clunky version look hipper than a thin kitten heel.

For example, this season there are some really funky looking “flat” wedges that might be fun to try and would give you both some height and comfort.

So, if you are looking to update your look this Spring/Summer  2011, you will see both the cropped and ankle length pant still coming on strong. Where in the past the legs on the Capris were on the wide side, the updated version is slimmer.

Here are few examples of this year’s latest styles from Nordstroms:

Here the ankle pant looks fine with flats,	or clunky heels
Flipping up your jeans: When going casual you can roll, or flip up your straight legged jeans. Be careful not to make them too wide. This is a good example of how it should be done.
Orange is going to be a big spring color. These, by Tori Burch, sure are cute with  flat nude sandals.
Tiny Flair: These Capris do have a touch of flair at the hem, but the rest of the pant is cut slimmer than last year’s version.

On the Street… What to Wear Shopping to Look Chic and Comfortable

We know that we love to preach how NOT to buy black, but we could not help but share this Age-mazing Grandmother, who we saw shopping the other day with her  over 40 daughter and grandson! The daughter was from NYC and so they had been shopping recently and bought the same shirt. Here is how they both took this simple black piece and made it age appropriate for themselves. Not only that, we have gotten many letters from you all that are asking the question, “Can I still have a more creative or funky look and not look silly?” We say,” but, of course” !!!

Here how theses gals got their  hip and “funky” but casual looks:

• Start with an good quality t-shirt dress, that hits above your knees. Notice that the sleeves are on the long side, so cover arms but will still keep you cool. Also, the v-neckline is wide and flattering. If it was a rounded neckline, it would not look as hip.
• Add leggings (see or post on leggings)
• and fun flats, like these pretty pewter ones.
• Don’t forget a dramatic light weight handbag.
• If you have a thin figure, you can belt the shirt
• Add tight straight legged jeans, and the latest flats.

Here is a step by step look:

Updated pewter flats
This handbag is lightweight and makes a statement!
Her glasses are updated and hip
This is her daughter, in the same shirt, but belted with jeans. (The daughter is also over 40)
Thin double belt.
Love her cool boots, so comfy and updated.