Are Capris Out of Style, or Just Evolving?
Every summer, the same question pops up: Are capris still in style? Surprisingly, the answer is yes!
If you’ve given up on wearing capris because they feel frumpy or outdated, you’re not alone. It’s easy to toss them aside without a second thought—but before you do, consider this: Capris have evolved over the years. You might just be wearing the wrong pair or styling them in a way that doesn’t work.
The good news? With a modern pair, the right fit, and a few smart styling tips, capris can look fresh and flattering. In fact, I’ll show you how to make capris work and share a few stylish options that might just change your mind about this summer staple.
Are Capris Out Of Style? Or Just Evolving?
Designers are leaning back into Capris this year, meaning younger gals are wearing them for the first time and sparking a new wave of interest in this classic style.
In our age group, there has always been some negativity surrounding capris. Many women swear they’d never wear them. However, many women in their 40s, 50s, and 60s love capris. I know because whenever I update this post, I have the hardest time finding capris to link to, as they’re always sold out. So… somebody is buying Capris!
What are Capris? How do they Differ from Cropped Pants?
Capris are sometimes referred to as “cropped pants,” but they’re actually quite distinct. Capris are lightweight, casual summer pants that are a shorter version of cropped pants. Whereas cropped pants end a few inches above the ankle (2-4 fingers), capris typically end somewhere below the knee to around mid-calf. Capris can be skinny, wide, tapered, straight, or flared—you name it.
This wasn’t always the case, though. Capris, originally known as “pedal pushers,” gained popularity in the 1950s and 1960s for their calf-length, tight-fitting design. While they earned a moment in the spotlight then, they certainly weren’t as chic and refined as the ones you know today!
I think Capris are popular with women our age because they’re like long shorts. They’re great for days when you don’t want to wear full-length pants but also don’t want to wear shorts that are too short or too tight. Capris keep you cool, feel sporty, and are extremely practical.
This year, clean, unfussy capris with neutral tones and slim or straight legs are trending. I’ve seen a few wide-leg capris but hardly any cargo capris with intricate details, such as multiple pockets, strings, and zippers.
Are Capris Flattering?
So now that I’ve answered the “Are capris out of style” question, here’s the next big one: Are capris flattering?
Capris have gotten a bad rap because they feature a straight, horizontal hem, which brings attention to the widest part of your calf. In turn, this can make you look shorter, wider, and frumpy.
They’re not a good choice if you have heavy calves, and for everyone else, you need to be sure they don’t end at the thickest part of your calves. Capris are most flattering when they end just above or below the calf. Finding this sweet spot is the key to looking good in capris.
Check out my post, “Slimming Ways to Wear Capris,” for more helpful tips.
How To Wear Capris And Still Look Polished
Choose the Right Length
As mentioned earlier, capris can look dowdy if you choose the wrong length. Regardless of your height, capris should always hit above the ankle or above or below mid-calf.
Anything that visually cuts across your calf reduces your height, making you appear short and stumpy.
Go Tailored, Not Tight
I’ve discussed this many times before: how properly fitting clothes can elevate your entire look, and this applies to capris as well. They should gently skim your figure, not cling to it.
A clean, structured fit always looks more flattering than one that is too tight or too loose. Are you unsure if your clothes are fitting you properly? Check out this fit guide for help.
Layer with Intention
Layering can take your capris outfit from a dull to a double-take look. It’s not always easy to layer in the summertime, but if you do layer, layer intentionally.
An oversized blazer is timeless and chic, but it’s not typically a style that pairs well with the relaxed silhouette of capris. Stick to light layers and breathable fabrics, such as a denim jacket or a cute shirt layered over a tee and worn open.
Accessorize Like You Mean It
A structured bag, summery jewelry, maybe a cute, wide-brimmed hat—these are all things that pair well with capris and can really uplevel your outfit. I’m a huge fan of Dean Davidson jewelry, as it’s classy, modern, and versatile, working well with everything from dresses to casual wear. Be sure to check it out!
Confidence is Key
Whatever you wear, wear it confidently. When you don’t feel confident wearing capris, it’s understandable. But when you feel fabulous and love what you’re wearing, you carry yourself with more confidence. This is the easiest way to make any outfit look good.
Now, let’s take a look at some trending capris and what to wear with them this summer.
Capris Outfits for Summer
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1. Skinny Capris
Here’s a new, chic type of capris I’ve seen a lot of younger girls wearing, and they’re cool-looking – a modern contrast to the sleekest, good for any age as long as you know how to style them and feel confident in a more elegant fit. I like these black skinny capris a lot and think they can look very sophisticated when paired with modern elements, such as classy flats, a luxurious leather bag, and perhaps even a belt.
These capris feel a little dressier than most. The key to styling them is not to go overboard with a dressy top as well. This short-sleeved chambray shirt is casual, relaxed, and cool-looking – a modern contrast to the sleek black bottom half. Love this!
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2. Denim Capris
Denim capris are a classic and always in style, but the wash tends to change from year to year. This summer, lighter-wash jeans, and denim capris are in, while whiskers and distressing are out.
Another way to make denim capris look more chic is to wear them with something other than your basic bright-colored tee. This cute top is more like a vest, which is a very on-trend look at the moment. It also has a great texture, and in black and cream, it has a more mature, European feel than, sa a sporty, bright orange T-shirt.
Now, I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with a bright orange t-shirt, but it’s a whole different vibe – more fun and sporty than sophisticated. It all depends on what you’re after.
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3 . Pull on Capris
Comfort has become increasingly important, and as a result, pull-on pants are selling like hotcakes. But I’m not talking about your grandma’s stretch pants!
These classy, cream-colored capris prove that an elastic waistband pull-on style can be chic. An elegant way to style them is to create a monochromatic look. By adding a top in a similar color, such as a white and cream knit tee, you create a long column of color that makes you look sophisticated, as well as taller and slimmer. Tone-on-tone is a great way to combat the shortening effect that capris can sometimes have.
Keep the head-to-toe neutral look going by wearing metallic sandals. Style Alert: Tiny kitten heel sandals are the new and chic shoe pair with capris for summer 2025. They add a flattering touch of height and an alluring ladylike vibe.
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4. Embellished Capris
Small details can make the difference between average and awesome. There are many capris available with small details at the hem, such as cuffs, lacing, snaps, and buttons. I think this is a cute pair with two small buttons on either side. It just makes them feel a touch more stylish. White always looks fresh in summer, and with a red top, you have a wow capris outfit! Don’t forget some great accessories with a touch of gold to uplevel your capris style.
5. Utility Capris
Cargo capris used to be a big thing, but lately, utility capris, which are sleeker and more refined, have taken over. Utility capris are not as loose or baggy, and they have fewer pockets, strings, and other details that can make cargo pants look bulky. For example, these utility capris have just two pockets at the top. You don’t see any on the legs or at the sides. So even though they have that trendy and modern cargo style, they look sleeker and more chic.
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6. Wide leg Capris
Wide-leg pants and wide-leg cropped pants have been trending, so it’s no surprise that we’re also seeing wide-leg capris this summer. Some may call these culottes, but culottes are looser and wider. This pair is cute in white denim with big pockets and stitching. If you love color, here’s a lovely way to incorporate it with a vibrant summer print. Keep the rest of your outfit, bag, and accessories neutral to balance the color and keep the outfit on the lovely, not loud, side.
Don’t Ditch Your Capris Just Yet!
As you can see, capris are evolving to suit the times and trends, with a wide selection available online right now. But, ultimately, it’s not so much about what’s in or out. That’s an outdated notion. Wear what makes you feel good and works best for your lifestyle. Enjoy your capris and own the look!
Would you like to know more about capris? Please enjoy these posts:
- 1o Slimming Ways to Wear Capris
- How to Wear Capris Pants with Confidence
- No Stain Pull-on Denim Capris
- Best Shoes to Wear with Capris and Cropped Pants
Be sure to follow my LTK storefront to stay up-to-date with my favorite outfit ideas, from everyday classics to the latest trendy styles. You can also join my private Facebook group, Fabulous After 40 Dressing Room, to discuss your thoughts about wearing capris. Will you buy yourself a new pair, or are you still hesitant to try this style? Please let me know in the comments; I’d love to discuss it further!
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Capris flatter few people especially if you are short and squat and/or carry extra pounds. Same for any pants that hit above the ankle. But women love them regardless. Not me.
This article was helpful as I love tight or loose capris around the legs; it doesn’t matter.
I am 5’8″ with a long back, broad shoulders, and hips with an inseam just a bit longer than off the rack. I look great in full, long pants, but not so much capris. I tend to slim and somewhat form-fitting capris as they tend to modify an almost boxy look. Then I wear long tops.
Thanks for this post! Very helpful!!
This post is beneficial. Thank You
Hi, do you think a petite woman would be better with a longer leg style below the calve so as not to look shorter?
Hi Linden, Anyone will look taller wearing cropped (above the ankle) pants over a Capri because capris pants break the leg line. However, that doesn’t mean a petite has to avoid capris. If you want to wear capris, ensure it doesn’t end at a heavy point on your leg, like the middle of your calf. ( That goes for everyone) Petites should wear short tops with capris to look longer and leaner. A bit of a heel helps, too, and neutral capris are better than bright capris, which will draw attention to your bottom half and short legs. I hope that helps, and thanks for dropping by!
I only wear crop pants. As a petite woman with short legs, I don’t need to make myself look shorter. I look at pictures of me wearing capris with long tops and think, what was I thinking? Reading various fashion blogs, this is the only one with positive thinking on capris.
I love the tops above (and the shoes!)
Thank you for this informative article. It appeared when I was trying to decide which length cropped pant was in style. Your information and pictures were so helpful! Thank You, Deborah!