Capri pants have made a strong comeback this summer, shedding their early-2000s reputation for a more refined, minimalist aesthetic. Inspired by the 1990s, the 2026 version is slim-cut, mid-rise, and tailored, offering a smart alternative to leggings or denim. Created in 1948 by German fashion designer Sonja de Lennart, these three-quarter-length trousers were named after the Italian island of Capri and have become synonymous with dolce vita style. Audrey Hepburn famously wore them in Sabrina and Roman Holiday, and after a dip in popularity, they reemerged as 'pedal pushers' in the nineties, worn by style icons like Sarah Jessica Parker and Winona Ryder.
How to Style Capri Pants This Season
Balancing proportions is key when wearing Capri pants. Pair them with a cropped baby tee or a floaty linen shirt for a flattering silhouette. Tighter tops create a seamless look, while oversized styles elongate the legs. For footwear, pointed kitten heels are chic, but ballet flats or flip flops work equally well for holiday dressing. European girls are wearing theirs to lunch with a white vest and scarf, or for glamorous evenings with an oversized blazer. Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner have been spotted in Capri pants at the airport, styling them with cropped track jackets or vests and jelly shoes.
Best Capri Pants at a Glance
- Best black Capri's – H&M crease-leg Capri trousers: £27.99, Hm.com
- Best gingham Capri's – Nobody's Child gingham Capri trousers: £38, Nobodyschild.com
- Best Capri leggings – Adanola ultimate Capri leggings: £38, Adanola.com
H&M Crease-Leg Capri Trousers
These H&M capri pants are endlessly wearable and a steal at £27.99. Made from crepe fabric with a smart crease down the front, they serve as a stylish alternative to black suit trousers. The high waistline creates a flattering silhouette, and the small side slit nods to Lennart's original design. They pair well with black kitten heels and a floaty silk shirt, or a fitted frog-fastening top and ballet flats.
Nobody's Child Gingham Capri Trousers
Nobody's Child's gingham capri trousers have received countless compliments. With a high waistband, three-quarter length, and dainty side slit, they are crafted from jersey material for comfort and stretch. Pockets add a practical touch. Styled with cutesy white blouses, T-shirts, or oversized black blazers, they look equally chic with kitten heels, flip flops, or ballet flats. Priced at £38.
Adanola Ultimate Capri Leggings
Kendall Jenner has been spotted in these Capri leggings, available in stylish colourways like coffee bean. They feature Adanola's signature wide, high waistband and moisture-wicking fabric that's buttery soft. The sporty, sculpting fit can be contrasted with a milkmaid blouse, halterneck linen top, or oversized white T-shirt. Price: £38.
Best of the Rest
M&S Pintuck Capri Trousers
This M&S pair takes direct inspiration from the 1940s with a tailored feel. Complete with a smart crease down the front and side slit detailing, the black pair boasts a high-rise waist and zip for a seamless fit. Available in petite, regular, and tall lengths, all for £18.
Next Black and White Spot Capri Pants
Next offers stretchy comfort and fashion-forward design with a polka dot print. Available in petite and regular lengths, these trousers are subtly sculpting with a concealed zip, high waistline, and practical pockets. Style with a white vest and woven ballet flats for the office, or pointed heels and an oversized black blazer for evening. Price: £32.
Hobbs White Capri Pants
For those in their bridal era, these Hobbs Capri pants are a winning outfit formula. Whether styled with a lace white cami for the hen or a loose cotton tank for the day after the ceremony, they offer wear long after wedding season. Price: £79.
Rouje Floral Capri Pants
The ultimate holiday pair, these Rouje trousers are distinguished by a delicate floral print. Crafted from breathable cotton with a button placket, their pink- and coral-hued finish evokes balmy summer days. Price: £62.
