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Capri pants are the latest Y2K trend that's here to stay, and here are our top picks for summer
Calves are finally having their moment
Capri pants… arguably the Marmite of the fashion world. Whether you love them or hate them, there’s no denying they are back with a vengeance for spring summer 24. The pant has become synonymous with Sex And The City’s Carrie Bradshaw who fashioned them in all sorts of styles and fabrics, from denim to pinstripe. And now, with modern-day A-listers including Bella Hadid and Emily Ratajowski giving their seal of approval to the Y2K trend, it’s safe to say we can expect to see the three-quarter length style being rocked all summer long.
What are capri pants?
Okay, let's break it down. Not quite shorts, but not quite trousers either, capri pants lie somewhere in between. They are a generic name for any type of cropped pant which typically falls at a three-quarter length just below the knee and are usually very close-fitting to the leg. Fun fact for all you fashion history buffs: the name originates from the Italian isle of Capri where they were worn in the '50s and '60s, the same era in which Audrey Hepburn helped to popularise the style.
They’ve also often been referred to as ‘pedal pushers’ which stems from cyclists wearing this length of trouser to avoid fabric getting caught in bike chains. Though you’ll more likely find us donning ours for drinks with the girls in the pub garden than the cycle path…
Are pedal pushers and capris the same?
Essentially, yes! Both refer to trousers of the three-quarter length variety, so whatever you prefer to call them, just know your ankles will be subject to that cool summer breeze. Yep, they're the ideal transitional wardrobe staple. Not to mention, create a totally unique silhouette compared to our parachute pants and maxi skirts.
Still not convinced? They’ve also been featured on many Spring/Summer runways with the likes of Tory Burch and Jacquemus all stamping their trademark style on the classic capri. You may be blessed enough to own a pair stuffed at the back of your wardrobe from years gone by, but if not, you’re in luck as we’ve rounded up some of our favourite capri pants to start styling this summer.
Best Capri Pants
LBD? More like LBC! It’s hard to go wrong with an all-black pair of trousers – they are chic in all the right ways and can be styled with pretty much any other colour. Pair with a white blouse and you’re ready for the office, or with a cropped cardi if it’s a bottomless brunch vibe you’re after.
Capris aren’t the only trend making a comeback. It’s been hard to avoid leopard print this year with everything from leopard print jeans to leopard print trainers. This is 2024’s pattern, so why not marry up a three-quarter trouser with the cute print?
Cargos have been *everywhere* recently, and we are living for it. Cargo skirts, cargo trousers, the list goes on, so it’s hardly surprising cargo capris have been born. H&M’s three-quarter cargos are looser than the typical pedal pusher making them ideal for summers spent lounging in the sun.
BDG Kayla capri jeans
You don't need us to tell you denim is super easy to style. Wear these jorts with a cute crop top or waistcoat and you’ll have effortlessly nailed the chic-yet-causal streetwear style.
These gorgeous capris from Anthropologie are serving athleisure with a high waist and slim-leg fit which promises to flatter and cinch in all the right places. And that gorgeous rusty hue has got us well and truly in our Autumn feels.
Alo High-waist iconic 90's capri
Alo have been making moves in the athleisure space of late and their capri pants are perfect for any budding yogis out there. Pair with your favourite yoga mat and an iced oat latte so you can let everyone know you are *that girl*.
You heard it here first folks, stripes are back. These pastel pants have belt loops for further accessorising and a side slit hem, making them quite the statement piece. BRB, adding to basket.
Lace is such a great material for layering and these black capri pants are no exception. Wear under a mesh midi skirt or oversized tee and you have an outfit full of texture and shape.
We all know that bloomers have been having their moment lately, but Free People have taken it one step further with their bloomer-capri pant hybrid. In a lime wash and complete with cinching bows, these are the ultimate pant of choice for festival szn.
It can be such a mission to find trendy, yet work-appropriate outfits, which is why these wide-leg capri suit pants are so ideal for office days. Paired with your favourite blouse and kitten heels, these are a new workwear staple.
Diesel has well and truly made a comeback in recent years and we are *here* for it. These light-wash denim capri pants with the iconic Diesel hardware are an ode to the days of 90's ultra low-rise.
Amy May Ellis (she/her) is the SEO Manager for Cosmopolitan UK, Women's Health UK, Men's Health UK, and Runner's World UK. Her love for all things beauty, fashion, and wellness is evident in her work with these lifestyle and fitness brands. Providing content recommendations for everything from new gut health supplements to the latest fashion trend, Amy has a keen eye for detail and loves to spot trends before they fully flourish. Follow her on Instagram or find her on LinkedIn.
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