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Fashion glossary

Capri pants: what they are, types, and what to wear them with

Olena Kovalenko 2 min read

What are capri pants?

Capri pants - These are shortened women's trousers, the length of which reaches the middle of the calf, ending below the knee, but above the ankle.

Read also our full guide: Types of Women's Trousers: How to Distinguish Premium from Mass-Market

The style was created in 1948 by German designer Sonja de Lennart. The trousers were named after the Italian island of Capri, where they first gained popularity as comfortable leisure wear.

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Classic fitted capri pants with a small side slit paired with leather ballet flats

In the 1950s and 1960s, capri pants became a global trend thanks to film. Audrey Hepburn, Brigitte Bardot, and Grace Kelly made them a symbol of elegant casual style.

Distinctive features and main types

The key feature of capris is their classic length. Their strict length, from the bottom of the knee to mid-calf, distinguishes them from breeches, which end just below the knee, and culottes, which have a wider, longer cut.

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A traditional look with black capri pants and a white sleeveless blouse

The traditional style features a fitted or semi-fitted silhouette. The legs often feature a small slit on the outer side seam, allowing for freedom of movement while walking.

Modern collections offer a variety of variations on this wardrobe staple. Straight denim capris are perfect for everyday wear, wide-legged lightweight linen styles are perfect for summer looks, and tailored tailored suits with pleats are perfect for business attire.

Historically, capri pants had a high waist. Today, designers are producing mid- and low-rise styles, adapting the cut to current trends.

What to combine with

For a classic 1950s-inspired look, pair capri pants with ballet flats, loafers, or kitten heels. Modern casual outfits feature minimalist white sneakers or leather mules.

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Wide-leg linen capris paired with a tucked-in nautical shirt

Slim-fit trousers look great with a voluminous top. They pair perfectly with loose cotton shirts tied at the waist or oversized jackets with defined shoulders.

During the summer season, the relaxed nature of the trousers is emphasized by basic T-shirts, crop tops, and cropped ribbed cardigans.

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Denim capris with an oversized beige blazer, a basic tee, and pointed-toe pumps

Business smart casual calls for more formal textures. Straight-cut capri pants in a crisp suiting fabric are paired with a silk blouse, a structured blazer, and classic pumps.

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About the author

O
Olena Kovalenko

Stylist with 14 years of experience. Specializes in capsule wardrobes and seasonal style transitions. Has helped over 500 women find their personal style and dress with confidence every day.

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