The current era of fashion seems to be embracing unconventional silhouettes, proportions and “ugly” trends. The forever polarising capris, also known as pedal pushers, fit right into this category, with Vogue stating that they’re “firmly back this season.”
Even during the 80s and Y2K era, when their popularity was at its peak, people have always found them ugly, and many assumed we would be leaving them behind for good, like the hideous dresses over jeans combo that Disney stars used to wear on Red Carpets in the 2000s.
However, models like Bella Hadid and Emily Ratajkowski have been seen rocking capris around town. For SS26, designers like Ralph Lauren featured the pants on the runway in clean, minimal lines and cuts, Versace added a pop of colour with their bright-coloured denim take on it, while Sandy Liang’s version was playful and “ironically feminine” with lace and floral prints.
For a lot of people, these pants are a big fashion faux pas, and they argue that the pants only suit a specific body type—tall and skinny, and are unflattering on everyone else. However, as someone who is neither of those things, I still love them. Now, before you grab your torch and pitchforks, hear me out.
From night outs to offices
First, the 2026 version is revamped and is way more modern and has many more styles to choose from. It’s so versatile; you can dress it up and wear it for night outs or to casual offices or dress it down for a coffee run or a walk in the park. They’re perfect for transitional weather styling since it’s in-between shorts and long trousers, providing the comfort and movability of shorts while also still retaining the polished and more formal look and structure of long pants.
Stylists do argue that capris are not flattering on most body types since they often cut off right at the widest part of the calf, which visually disrupts the long line of the legs; however, capris can actually flatter petite and curvy sizes more by breaking the line at a slimmer point of the leg.
When most people think of capris, they often think of the classic black leggings version. However, this season has sported multiple different styles; the most popular ones being denim, lace and the wide, flared version, commonly known as gauchos. Sure, they’re not the easiest pair of pants to style, but when done right, they instantly elevate the outfit and make you a certified diva who knows how to make just about anything look good on them.
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A few tips
When styling capris, there are a few tips and rules I like to follow that make it easier for me. The key is to make everything as light as possible—think shoes like kitten heels, sling backs, flipflops, Maryjane and ballet flats, mules and slim sneakers; nothing too bulky and as low as possible. (Bonus points if your ankles are exposed since it lengthens the legs.)
I’ve noticed that the silhouette looks more proportional and visually pleasing when pairing it with tops that cut off at the waist, with either high necklines or thin straps. Tops such as sleeveless turtle necks (Tori’s outfit in White Chicks is a perfect example), the trending retro adidas jackets, tank tops, vests, corsets and fitted tees would go perfectly with these pants.
Icons like Carrie Bradshaw from Sex and the City and Audrey Hepburn are great inspos for styling these pants as well. One thing I really like about these pants is that they are a perfect complementary piece to style with some statement shoes or a statement bag. With an endless array of capris in all sorts of lengths, cuts, designs and fabrics, there’s no better time than the present to give them a second chance, and I really hope to see a lot more people wearing them this summer.
(Edited by Saptak Datta)