Just when we thought we were coming to the end of the Y2K revival, we were in for a shock of what was up next.
I’ll admit, I was just as shocked when I heard the news, wondering what kind of cruel fever dream I was being exposed to. However, after a few deep breaths and seeing that both Kendall Jenner and Julia Fox have worn them this week, I am feeling less nauseous and dare I say it, even a little tempted to try a pair for myself…
You will likely all remember the capri pant craze of the early 2000s, a staple in everyone's wardrobes, worn out to dinners, school dances, shopping dates and quite literally everything in between, you name it, the Capri pants were there through it all, so it’s only fitting that they make a resurgence some 20 years later.
What are capri pants?
Capri pants are in a league of their own: too long to be shorts but too short to be trousers. They sit anywhere from under the knee to a few inches above the ankle and are available in many different fabrics and styles, some baggy, some tight and (god forbid) some sparkly.
Now that we’ve cleared that up, let's get down to business and discover how on earth one actually wears capri pants in 2024 and looks chic.
With a Matching Activewear crop
Kenny J can quite literally pull off anything and this matching grey ensemble has single-handedly healed my childhood capri pants trauma. In true model off-duty fashion, Kendall paired her skin-tight look with black ballet flats, sunglasses and a tote bag, effortlessly emulating the casual yet put-together style we all strive for.
With a Layered Piece
As we descend into autumn and the temperature begins to drop, take the capri pants through the transitional season by layering up. Opt for a plain pair and add a staple coat for a statement look, or add a knit layered over a shirt for a preppy style. We love the pointed slingbacks styled with this look, but for a more casual feel, pair with a trainer or ballet flat.
With a Pop of Colour
Of course, the fashion girlies were amongst the first to adopt the trend, many showcasing an array of different variations at this season's fashion week. One in particular that caught my eye was Pernille Teisbaek’s all-black with pops of burgundy Hermés show look. Obviously, the Birkin bag elevates this look and I think without it the whole ensemble would fall flat, so ensure you choose your arm candy wisely if opting for a similar style.
With a Waistcoat
This denim capri moment from Danish stylist and ‘it’ girl Emili Sindlev is giving major Hannah Montana vibes in all the right ways. I love how she’s layered a plaid waistcoat over a plain t-shirt and paired it with a mane of blonde mermaid hair and secretary-style glasses.
With Ballet Flats and a Blouse
Leave it to Alexa Chung to style this season's most trending animal print, shoes and now pant choices together in one outfit. Alexa chose a bold statement pair of leopard print capris and styled them with a silky style blouse and her trusty black Miu Miu ballet flats.
I guess the only question to ask is whether or not you’ll be sporting a pair for yourself. If you want to give the trend a go, we've rounded up 10 styles for you to try.
How we chose:
- Style and versatility: All our capri's picks feature an array of styles with the key components of a capri pant. When combing through the internet's top fashion sites for the best pieces, we made sure that each of our outfit combinations either felt trend-relevant or timeless for maximum wearability.
- Price: Whether you're planning on splashing out or bagging a bargain, we've got a dress in your price range. We've selected this season's best, ranging from high-street brands to luxe designer labels.
Why you should trust me:
I am Hello! Fashion’s Style Writer, with seven years of experience within the fashion journalism industry. I have a love for fashion and spotting upcoming trends, coveted pieces and scouring online for irresistible new-in finds. Finding luxe-looking pieces on the high street is my forte and I love finding those hidden gems that look so much more expensive than they are.
HELLO!'s selection is editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items our editors love and approve of. HELLO! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. To find out more visit our FAQ page.