The last time I wore capri pants, it was the early 2000s and I was a gawky teenager (shamelessly) strutting down the halls of my high school. Fast forward to summer 2024: what's old is new again. From the streets of New York City to high fashion runways, capri pants have made a bold resurgence this season, but what's the reasoning behind this new (and improved) fad?
According to celebrity stylist and bestselling author of Dressing Up: Pip’s Truly Fashionable Tale Samantha Brown, "many models and influencers have been sporting capri pants for the last few months which has trickled down to mainstream shoppers," she explains. "Predictably, capri pants are flattering on models with long and lean body types. They are difficult to style as the cropped length and tight fit tends to cut off the line of your legs," she shares.
Liz Teich, who is the fashion stylist behind The New York Stylist, says it's no surprise capris are back as more and more nostalgic trends are at the forefront of fashion. "While capris felt dated for a bit, we’re seeing a lot of the styles from the late '90s to early 2000s pop up again, so it’s only natural that they’re making a comeback as well," Teich suggests.
Whether you’re searching for lightweight linen or classic cargos, our experts and Shop TODAY team are here to help you find the hottest capri pants of the season.
Capri pants vs. cropped pants | What to look for | Best materials | Expert picks | Editor faves | More capri pants to shop | FAQs | How we chose | Meet the experts
Capri pants vs. cropped pants
If you're wondering what the difference between capri pants and cropped pants is, Charline Zeroual, a French personal stylist based in Los Angeles, is ready to break it down. "Capris are lightweight, casual summer pants that are shorter versions of cropped pants. Cropped pants usually end a few inches above the ankle, capris typically end around the mid-calf. They can be skinny, wide, tapered, straight or flared," explains Zeroual.
"Capris have gotten a bad reputation because they visually cut off the leg line and can make you look shorter and wider," reveals Zeroual. "They’re not ideal if you have heavy legs, and you need to be sure they don’t end at the thickest part of your calves," she says. "They are most flattering when they end just above or below the calf. That sweet spot is the key to looking good in capris."
What to look for in capri pants
When it comes to finding the right capris, you'll want to first consider what style looks best on your body type. "The most important thing to look for when shopping for capris is to find a shape and fit that suits you," recommends Teich.
"It’s also how you style the pants too. Opt for sleek silhouettes and shoes like ballet flats, mules, kitten heels, etc reminiscent of the feminine 1950s styles (think Audrey Hepburn) to make it look more elongated, elegant and elevated, rather than with chunky platforms or sneakers like we all did in the Y2K era!" she explains.
What materials are best for capri pants
With the summer heat nearly in full effect, it's important to opt for materials that won't make you sweat. "When shopping for capri pants, look for something that is mostly natural materials like cotton, even if it’s denim, so they’re breathable in the summer heat," suggests Teich. "Too much stretch and too thin may actually show more and be less flattering, so look for a material that either has texture or is more substantial to conceal," she says.
Brown says to avoid materials that are too tight as they aren't as figure-flattering. "A fabric with some stretch will highlight the natural shape of your legs. They’ll be available in fabrics from Ponte to denim, so depending on how you want to style them, there will be many fabric options to choose from," she explains.
Expert-recommended capri and cropped pants
Inexpensive and lightweight: High Waisted Linen Capris
- Nice quality
- Very soft
- Lightweight and comfortable
- May take a while to receive
Colorways: 35 | Sizes: S-3X | Materials: Cotton linen
Keep calm and carry on this season in these high-waisted capris that are a favorite of Zeroual and come in over two dozen shades. These lightweight pants are made of cotton linen and are the perfect summer wardrobe staple. Complete with drawstring and pockets, you won't want to wear anything else once you slip on these classy capris!
Affordable denim capris: Levi's 311 Shaping Skinny Capri Jeans
- Good amount of stretch
- Great fit
- May run small
Colorways: Four | Sizes: 23-34 | Materials: Cotton, polyester, viscose, elastane
When it comes to capris, Teich recommends these skinny jeans from Levi's as she says even denim can be breathable in the summer heat. These classic capris are designed to contour curves and lengthen legs, according to the brand. Featuring a five-pocket style, these denim pants have plenty of room to safely store all your everyday essentials so you can leave the crossbody at home.
Nostalgic denim: Madewell The '90s Capri Jean
- Very soft
- Stylish
- May run small
Colorways: Two | Sizes: 23-33 | Materials: Cotton, polyester
If your heart (and fashion sense) is still stuck in the '90s, these capris are clearly for you. Both Teich and Zeroual are big fans of these denim slacks from Madewell. These stretchy jeans come in two unique hues and feature front welt pockets to help store your lipstick, credit cards and more. Pair these capri-length jeans with a white T-shirt and flip-flops to achieve the ultimate summer look.
Tropical trousers: Tommy Bahama Boracay Cropped Pants
- Lightweight
- Easy to pack for travel
- Nice fit
- May be long on petite women
Colorways: Five | Sizes: 0-16 | Materials: Cotton, lyocell, spandex
If you're on island time, raise a glass to these colorful cropped pants from Tommy Bahama that Zeroual recommends. These lightweight slacks are wrinkle-resistant with the right amount of stretch, according to the brand. These trendy trousers come in a variety of sizes and five unique hues, including khaki sand and tea leaf.
Splurge one-piece: Reformation Rue Knit Jumpsuit
- Straps to help hold up
- Trendy
- Only goes up to size XL
Colorways: One | Sizes: XS-XL | Materials: Rayon, nylon, spandex
If you're looking for a one-and-done jumpsuit with capri-length pants, Teich recommends this more contemporary option from Reformation. Women with larger busts will definitely appreciate the straps to help hold up the top. This stylish outfit pairs well with a denim jacket and open-toe heels.
Editor-loved capri and cropped pants
Comfy drawstring pants: Lou & Grey Sandwashed Straight Crop Pants
- Comfortable
- Stylish
- May run long on short women
Colorways: Five | Sizes: XXS-XXL | Materials: Modal, polyester
Associate editor Allie Wise's mom Cindy Wise has been buying capris from Loft for years and especially loves these Lou & Grey cropped pants. Not only does Wise appreciate the drawstring waistline, but also says they come in handy on chilly summer evenings when she's looking for a little more leg coverage than traditional Bermuda shorts. These cool slacks come in multiple hues and are available in both regular and petite.
Runner's favorite: Smartwool Active Slim Jogger Pant
- Enough pockets
- Feel breathable & lightweight
- May run short on tall girls
Colorways: Two | Sizes: XS-XL | Materials: Recycled nylon, elastane, merino wool, recycled polyester
"The first time I tried these pants I was unsure about the length but they’re so comfortable that I overlooked the style," shares commerce writer Jannely Espinal. "Since I am tall, these joggers are considered capri pants and sit right at my calves. I love the pockets, the elasticity and how breathable they feel during warm weather. They’re great for workouts or running errands, plus they are roomy and feel relaxed," Espinal says.
Bold choice: Maeve Structured Bombshell Capri Pants
- Comfortable
- Stretchy fabric
- May run small
Colorways: Three | Sizes: 00-16 | Materials: Viscose, linen, cotton, elastane
Social media editorial assistant Annie Shigo hasn't picked up a pair yet but says she plans on getting this pair of capris from Anthropologie. "I am a huge fan of the Maeve brand at Anthro, and trust anything they make and these capris look so cute and flattering. The Maeve material for pants is so comfy and stretchy so I know I will be living in these after I snag them," explains Shigo.
These trendy capris are available in standard, tall and petite to best fit a variety of women.
More capri pants to shop
Budget-friendly pull-on pants: The Pioneer Woman Millennium Pull-On Capris
- Super comfortable
- Ideal length
- Affordable
- No pockets
Colorways: Four | Sizes: S-3X | Materials: Rayon, nylon, spandex
Looking for pants that will stretch? These affordable pull-on capris are super comfortable and come in a variety of sizes, ranging from small to 3X. The best part? These sophisticated slacks feature an elastic waist, so you won't feel guilty indulging at the neighborhood barbecue.
Cleanest white capris: Briggs New York Pull on Capri Pants
- Spacious pockets
- Comfortable
- Stretchy material
- Material is thick
Colorways: Eight | Sizes: 6-16 | Materials: Rayon, nylon, spandex
Whether you're headed to the beach or brunch with friends, these capris will certainly make a splash. These budget-friendly slacks are available in sizes 6-16 and come in fun colors, like flamingo pink and chambray blue.
Wide leg capris: Old Navy High-Waisted Cropped Leggings
- Comfortable
- Flowy
- May run big
- No pockets
Colorways: Three | Sizes: XS-4X | Materials: Cotton, spandex
These bestselling leggings from Old Navy feature an elastic waistband and wide leg, making them a perfect choice for all your summer activities. Available in a variety of sizes, these loose pants offer an inclusive fit and style. Complete the look with a chic pair of sneakers and you're ready to hit the town.
Eddie Bauer First Ascent Guide Pro Capris
- Don't wrinkle
- Comfortable
- Versatile
- Mixed reviews on fit
Colorways: Seven | Sizes: 6-18 | Materials: Nylon, spandex
Headed hiking this summer? If so, these lightweight capris are the ideal option. Complete with UPF 50+, these sporty slacks are designed to help keep you protected from the sun. Available in regular, petite, tall and plus, these outdoorsy capris will fit women of many shapes and sizes.
L.L. Bean Stretch Ripstop Pull-On Capri Pants
- Nice fabric
- Comfortable
- Don't cling
- May run big
Colorways: Five | Sizes: XS-XL | Materials: Cotton, spandex
These cotton capris feature a knit waistband with an adjustable drawstring and two back patch pockets for storing essential items. These pull-on pants also come in regular, petite and plus sizes for a more inclusive fit, plus are available in four hues.
FAQs
How we chose the best capri pants
The Shop TODAY team rounded up the best capri pants for summer using a few methods: enlisting the recommendations of three renowned fashion stylists, filtering our searches for verified shopper reviews and including editor (and mom) favorites as well.
Meet the experts
- Samantha Brown is a New York-based celebrity stylist and author of Dressing Up: Pip’s Truly Fashionable Tale”
- Liz Teich is the fashion stylist behind The New York Stylist.
- Charline Zeroual is a French personal stylist based in Los Angeles, dedicated to helping women look and feel their best.
