How to wear capri pants well is a style conundrum that has long divided the fashion world. The controversial garment has had its ups and downs in popularity, only to reemerge this summer as a key item among the season’s trends. Whatever you think of them, you can’t deny that capri pants are both comfortable and chic…when styled to their best advantage, of course.
Defined by a length that stops somewhere between the calf and the ankle, capri pants can seem difficult to style at first. Worn with the wrong pieces, the look can seem messy or ill-defined. Add the right combinations, however, and the capri becomes a symbol of elegance and sophistication.
Whether you want to incorporate them into a casual daytime look or put together a more polished outfit for a night out, knowing how to wear capri pants can make a big difference in your personal style.
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How to wear capri pants for summer 2025
Choose the right length for your height
One of the most common mistakes when wearing capri pants is not paying attention to the length. This type of pant visually cuts the leg if not chosen carefully, so ideally you want the pants to end just below the knee—especially if you’re of short or medium height. Taller people can play a little more with the length, though it’s always advisable to have the pants end above the widest part of the calf.
Gap High-Rise Capri Jeans
Gap
Nia Timothee Capris
Shopbop
Look for structured silhouettes
For a more sophisticated look, avoid capris that are too tight or, on the contrary, too baggy. Structured, straight-cut silhouettes flatter all body types and offer a more polished look. Capris with darts, discreet pockets, and/or a well-defined waist give an understated, chic look. Also, pay attention to the quality of the fabric. Linen, cotton, or viscose blends will help maintain the shape of the pants and are a dressier in appearance.
Lioness Coco Capri Pants
Nordstrom
Abercrombie & Fitch Mid-Rise Tailored Capri Pants
Abercrombie & Fitch
Think about the proportions of the rest of the outfit
When wearing capri pants, it’s crucial to balance proportions. If your capri leggings are tight-fitting, opt for a slightly looser top like a flowy blouse or an oversized button-down shirt. On the other hand, if the capris have a culotte cut, consider wearing a top that’s cropped, fitted, or tucked into the pants to better define the waist. Play with light layering, too, like adding a blazer or fitted cardigan; it’ll add a touch of elegance to the outfit.
Madewell Linen Oversized Button-Up Shirt
Madewell
Gap Linen-Blend Crop Shell Tank Top
Gap
Shoes make all the difference
When it comes to a capri pants outfit, the “wrong shoe theory” does not apply. For an elegant look, find shoes that lengthen the leg and don’t cut off your foot at the ankle. Sandals, stilettos, loafers, boat shoes, kitten heels, and ballerina flats are all excellent choices. Avoid shoes that are too heavy, chunky, or have thick straps around the ankle because they tend to cut off the visual line of the leg. If you’re looking for a more modern and bold look, delicate ankle-strapped heels can work as long as the pants are on the shorter side.
Reformation Onyx Thong Sandals
Reformation
Marc Fisher LTD Posey Kitten Heels
Nordstrom
The real secret to all of these styling tricks for capri pants is knowing your body well! Balance the proportions, and choose materials and cuts that work best for you and your personal style. It’s the only way you’ll be able to wear capris on multiple occasions without losing your signature chic touch.
Read moreCapri Leggings Are Spring’s Most Unexpected Style MVPs
Comfortable, practical, and infinitely adaptable.
A version of this article was previously published in Glamour Mexico.
The post How to Wear Capri Pants Well This Summer, According to Fashion Pros appeared first on Glamour.
