Capri Pants Are Trending Again—Here’s How I’m Making the Controversial Style Work for Spring
The once-polarizing style is back on the fashion map.
Cropped, close-fitting, and slightly controversial, capri pants are officially back for another spin around fashion’s trend cycle. Once championed by '60s-era Hollywood starlets, like Audrey Hepburn and Brigitte Bardot, this calf-skimming trend has since made its way onto the Spring 2026 runways of modern labels like Ralph Lauren, Akris, and Sandy Liang. To no surprise, the style has trickled down from designer catwalks to the coveted closets of fashion enthusiasts.
Capri pants emerged across the Spring 2026 runways of Ralph Lauren, Akris, and Sandy Liang.
Marie Claire Fashion Features Editor Emma Childs tells me that she’s a staunch advocate for capri pants. “I consider the cropped pants a cult classic—up there with ballet flats and Breton stripe shirts,” she says. “I own a pair of black stretchy capris from HM and typically wear them with either a button-down shirt or a minimal black long-sleeve (à la Audrey) with my favorite Prada kitten heels to tie the vintage-inspired look together.”
Like my savvy colleague, I prefer a polished approach to wearing capris, often coordinating them with sharp blazers and lofty mules for days in the office. However, if I’m in a laid-back mood, I’ll pair these pants with oversized T-shirts and retro sneakers for errand runs and casual city strolls. As for my chosen style, I opt for high-waisted capri pants with lengthy mid-calf hems, which create an elongated look, considering I'm borderline petite at 5 feet 4 inches.
With endless styling options available this season, there’s no better time than now to indulge in the capri pants trend. Scroll on for 17 options that will help you do just that, from neutral variations to statement-making alternatives featuring pinstripes, gingham prints, and lace.
Shop the Capri Pants Trend:
Aritzia’s Departure capris flaunt a timeless, form-fitting look that celebrates ‘60s fashion. Slip into these retro slacks with a crisp blouse and a pair of Mary Janes to turn up the old-school volume even more.
If you’re looking to test the waters of spring 2026’s capri pants trend but don’t want to spend a fortune, make a splash with this under-$100 pair from Mango.
You might know Levi’s for their standard straight-leg jeans, but don’t overlook the brand’s capri pants. Featuring a simple form and drenched in a deep dark wash, these bottoms will cycle seamlessly through your rotation of spring outfits.
Enhance your assortment of summer work uniforms with Posse's Effi pants. They’re cut from pristinely stitched linen fabric, so they closely resemble refined tailored trousers.
While Childs’s favorite HM capris are currently sold out, I found a similar pair from the beloved brand. Follow the fashion editor’s style playbook by pairing these pants with a button-down and kitten heels.
Gingham is a quintessential warm-weather print, so why not embrace the season of sweltering heat with Frankie Shop’s Parlour pants? Made from lightweight poplin fabric, these capris will keep you cool and comfortable.
Reformation's capris stand apart from the others with a flared silhouette that adds a bit of shape.
Y2K fashion is back in full swing, and denim capris are leading the charge. Travel back in time with this version of the trend from Gap.
While some capri pants are cropped at the knee, others feature a longer design. With a calf-skimming hemline, Lovers and Friends’s Marnie pants fall into the latter category.
There’s something so elegant about the tiny polka dots on these capri pants. Style them with a frilly top and slingbacks if you’re feeling sophisticated.
Coated in an inky indigo colorway that feels effortlessly cool, DL1961's capris are perfect for late nights on the town. Pair them with a sculpted tube top and sky-high platforms for an easy going-out getup.
Not afraid to show a bit of skin? Embrace the naked dressing trend with La Porte’s sultry capris adorned with delicate lace.
What I love most about Good American’s cropped bottoms is that they come in a range of sizes, from 00 to 24, making the capri pants trend accessible to women of various shapes and sizes.
For your next gym day, consider wearing Alo Yoga’s ‘90s-inspired capri leggings. Not only do they have a super soft feel, but they’re also undeniably stylish and will pair well with a streamlined sports bra and chunky sneakers.
The girlhood aesthetic is still thriving, and Miaou’s capri pants are evidence of that. Decorated with dainty bows, these bottoms showcase a delightful feminine flair.
Superdown's tailored capris embody the phrase, “it’s all in the details." Look closely, and you’ll notice contrasting pinstripes that make these pants pop.
I don’t know about you, but I’m not the biggest fan of low-rise pants. That’s why I’ve added Favorite Daughter's Carrie Pedal Pushers to my wishlist. The high waistline ensures a secure and comfortable fit.
