Hello, Deborah,
I ‘m sorting out my closet, and I notice I have several capris in different widths and lengths. Which ones are in style, and what can I wear them with to make them look updated. Thank you, Gabriela
Hi Gabriela,
I’m glad you’re asking this question because many of my readers are confused about capris and if they are even still in fashion?
In a nutshell, Capris are casual summer pants that hit at around midcalf. Some hit a little higher or a little lower on the calf, but that is generally the spot. Capris can be wide; they can be tapered, skinny, flowy or flared. If you find they end just above the ankle, then they are considered cropped pants, not capris.
Some women prefer cropped pants because they are easier to wear (more slimming), but capris are still in fashion.
Popular styles of Capris for summer 2019 include: a lot of tapered or narrow capris, although you still see some wider flowy ones too. The newest styles trending now are print capris like these black and white print denim capris, capris with lacing up the side, striped wide cropped capris, colored denim capris and jean capris with a release, frayed or fringe hem.
Fashion Forward Capris
There’s also these black step-hem Capris which are very edgy. They’re not everyone’s cup of tea, but certainly, anyone who thinks capris are frumpy needs to take a look at these!
Whether you buy a new pair of Capris or shop your closet, the most important thing is to choose a pair of Capris pants that flatter your body type.
Gabriela, I’d suggest you head into your closet and try on a few pairs that you already own, and see what you think. (I have a whole guide on picking the right capris for your body type here, which will help). Once you have the perfect capris to flatter your figure, there are many ways to make Capris look modern.
For Example:
1. Pair Capris with a Trendy Top
These army-inspired utility capris ( similar) are a classic capris style and many women’s favorite. The relaxed leg is super comfy, and the khaki green is a fresh neutral that works with so many summer colors. Pair these capris with this peachy tie front top. It’s very figure flattering and will give you a laid-back summer look that is right on trend. You can read more here about how to wear front-tie tops.
2. Add Hip Shoes to Your Favorite Capris
Did you know that a pair of fab shoes and a modern bag is the easiest way to refresh any outfit? These darling fringe mules are such a fun way to kick up your look a notch, plus white is so cool looking in hot weather. Coral Capris ( similar) are fun.
3. Give Capris a Fashion Refresh with a “Now” Color
We always think we need to change styles to be current but sometimes just adding a color of the moment can update a look. Blue has been extremely popular this spring and adds a rich vibe to these wide cropped jean capris.
Do you like Capris or do your prefer cropped pants or does it really make any difference?
I am 5’8″ with a long back, wide 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 very helpful Thank You
Hi, do you think a petite woman would be better with a longer leg style, below the calve as not to look shorter.
Hi Linden, Anyone will look taller wearing a cropped (above the ankle) pant over a capri because capris pants break the leg line. However, that doesn’t mean a petite has to avoid capris. I would say if you want to wear a capris make sure 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 make them look longer and leaner. A bit of a heel helps too, and a neutral capris is better than a bright capris which will draw attention to your bottom half and short legs. I hope that helps and thanks for dropping by!
I love the tops above (and shoes!)
Thank you for this informative article. It appeared just when I was trying to decide which length cropped pant was actually in style. Your information and pictures were so helpful! Thank You Deborah!