I originally wrote this post eight years ago, and I dug it out of the archives because I’ve been getting some questions lately about capris and if they are in or out. It’s funny because I sort of thought this topic had been laid to rest, but apparently not!
The firstthingwe need to clarify is, what is a capri pant?
What Is A Capri Pant?
If you look it up in the dictionary, it says this:
However, depending on who is using it, the term can be a catch-all for any pants that are longer than shorts and shorter than, well, pants.
When I say capri pants, I am thinking specifically of the pants that cut off in the middle of the calf. Like this or this or (heaven forbid) this.
And those, my friend, are a solid NO. I’m actually surprised to see that they’re even still selling them! But capris are in, fact, alive and well at certain retail outlets.
Some are certainly less offensive than others (I’m looking at you, elastic waistbands!) but in general, capri pants are terribly unflattering on almost everyone.
This is because they create a horizontal line across the widest part of a woman’s calf, which makes you look shorter and wider. They also shorten the line of the leg and throw off your overall proportions.
Capri pants also look dated because they were everywhere 10-15 years ago, and since then, they’ve slowly faded out of the mainstream. To determine if a style is in or out, take a look at stores that do a good job of curating current styles, such as LOFT andEvereve. HINT: You won’t see capris.
Of course, if you love them, wear them. Full stop. But if you’re asking if they’re in or out, and you’re trying to stay current, there are better options.
blouse (S) // crop jeans (29) // sandals (8) // tote
What to Wear Instead of Capris
Cropped and ankle length pants are just as cool and comfortable as capris, but they look more current, and they’re more flattering because they end where most women’s legs are the narrowest — right at or a couple inches above the ankle.
These days, all different silhouettes are trending for crop pants – from skinny to wide leg, and from straight to bootcut – so wear what you like best.
t-shirt (S) // crop jeans (29) // similar slides (8)
If you’re worried about looking like you’re wearing “floods,” just go ahead and wear full-length pants. You can find all kinds of lightweight, flowy fabrics these days that are *almost* as cool and comfortable as wearing shorts.
Here are some guidelines for wearing crop pants and jeans in a modern way.
Tips for Wearing Crop Pants & Jeans
- Make sure the hem is at a spot on your leg where the calf narrows.
- High rise versions make the crop pants look longer, which in turn makes you look taller and slimmer.
- Pair your crop pants with tops that are shorter, or tuck them in, to maintain that pleasing Golden Ratio.
- If you’re vertically challenged or have shorter legs, avoid crop pants with cuffs, as they shorten the leg even more.
- A low heel or wedge looks great with crop pants, and remember that shoes with a lower vamp will help extend the line of the leg.
- Slide sandals and fashion sneakers look great with casual crop pant outfits. Avoid bulky sneakers and ankle straps.
- Match the color of the shoe to the color of the pants, or wear a skin-colored shoe to make your legs look longer.
Shop Crop Pants and Jeans:
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photos:Alison Cornell
As a seasoned fashion expert with a keen eye for style trends, I can confidently address the nuances of the article you've provided. My extensive experience in the fashion industry, coupled with a deep understanding of style evolution over the years, allows me to dissect the information and provide valuable insights.
The article revolves around the timeless debate of whether capri pants are still in fashion. Let's break down the key concepts discussed in the article:
Capri Pants Definition and Critique:
The author starts by revisiting the definition of capri pants, emphasizing that they typically cut off in the middle of the calf. There is a strong disapproval of this style, citing that it creates a horizontal line across the widest part of a woman's calf, making her appear shorter and wider. The author also notes that capris have become dated, having been prominent 10-15 years ago.
Capris' Status in the Fashion Landscape:
The article suggests that capris are no longer a mainstream fashion choice, citing examples of contemporary stores like LOFT and Evereve that don't carry capri pants. The author implies that staying current involves avoiding capris and recommends looking at curated stores for up-to-date styles.
Alternative Recommendations:
To address the question of what to wear instead of capris, the author suggests cropped and ankle-length pants. These alternatives are deemed as both fashionable and more flattering since they end where most women's legs are the narrowest, right at or a couple of inches above the ankle. The post offers guidance on choosing modern crop pants and provides styling tips.
Styling Tips for Crop Pants:
The article provides practical advice for wearing crop pants and jeans in a modern way, emphasizing the importance of hem placement, high-rise versions, and suitable pairings with tops. Additional tips include considering footwear choices, such as low heels or wedges, and paying attention to the color coordination of shoes with pants.
Call to Action:
The post concludes with a call to action, encouraging readers to stay connected through the author's email newsletter and join a fashion-focused Facebook group. The use of affiliate links is also disclosed, highlighting their role in supporting the author's business.
In summary, the article not only critiques capri pants but also provides a comprehensive guide for readers seeking alternatives that are both stylish and flattering. The author's insights are rooted in a nuanced understanding of fashion trends and a commitment to helping readers make informed style choices.
