They're like elevated yoga pants.
Love it or hate it, the capri pant is back! The calf-grazing style that took over the ‘50s and ‘60s (think Marilyn Monroe in cropped gingham bottoms) is having a resurgence—and I’m secretly in love with it. Okay, maybe it’s not a secret anymore, but my 4’11” frame will bite at anything that doesn’t drag on the floor behind me. That said, even soaring-tall models are signing off on the vintage look.
Bella Hadid walked around New York City in a monochromatic ensemble that proved wearing all-black will always be in. Her look included a cropped bomber jacket, curved heels, and super short cigarette pants from Ferragamo that hugged her silhouette, stopped mid calf, and oozed quiet luxury.
NYDJ Ami High-Waist Skinny Capri Pants
Buy on Nordstrom $89
Signature by Levi Strauss & Co. Shaping Pull-On Capri Pants
Buy on Amazon $28
Hadid isn’t alone in her love of capris, with Jennifer Lawrence, Sofía Vergara, Julia Fox, and Kendall Jenner signing off on the controversial trend. Perhaps the celebrity-approved cropped pants are fashion’s way of welcoming the shunned skinny jean back into the conversation. Even more, the look isn’t only flattering, but when styled correctly, it can be extremely versatile and practical.
Hadid dressed her pants up with pumps, but white sneakers can make capris an everyday staple. Blouses and shirts have the same effect; consider a pleated halter neck for a fancy date night or throw on a loose knit top for a casual picnic. Belts are also your friend, adding an elegant, bohemian, or tailored touch to your new bottoms. Depending on how they’re styled, you can wear capris to the office, museum, and everything in between.
Trouser-like capris are often comfortable, too, thanks to the sleek fabric that feels like an elevated pair of yoga pants. The NYDJ Ami High-Waist Skinny Capri Pants mimic that same feeling, while the Signature by Levi Strauss & Co. pull-on version are a budget-friendly alternative. You’ll be able to freely go about your day this spring without feeling restricted by a pair of tight bottoms.
You may be hesitant to accept capris back into your wardrobe, but fashion is about taking risks—and TBH, the fun-sized pants aren’t as scary as they seem. So, shop editor-approved capris for spring and summer, below.
Get the Look:
NYDJ Petite Dakota Side-Slit Pull-On Capri Pants
Shop now: $89; nordstrom.com
Anthropologie Maeve Structured Bombshell Capri Pants
Shop now: $118; anthropologie.com
Ginasy Stretchy Pull-On Capri Pants
Shop now: $50 (Originally $55); amazon.com
Hue Side-Slit Pull-On Denim Capri Leggings
Shop now: $40; nordstrom.com
Rekucci Button-Front Capri Pants
Shop now: $40 (Originally $55); amazon.com
Tapata Capri Dress Pants
Shop now: $28 (Originally $33); amazon.com