Capri pants have been around far longer than the current trends may suggest. Created by German fashion designer Sonja de Lennart in the late 1940s, the name suggests that the mid-calf trousers were designed for warmer weather. It was then popularised by none other than Audrey Hepburn, wearing a black pair that quickly became an essential for beatnik fashion, as she posed for a publicity shot for the movie Sabrina in 1954.
Fashion icons such as Elizabeth Taylor, Grace Kelly, and Marilyn Monroe wore them throughout the decades, and by the early 2000s, they adopted a new variation that edges closer to the shins, almost like a pair of leggings. Its thigh-grazing silhouette gave it a new moniker, the pedal pushers, as it makes cycling hassle-free. Hence, metropolitan trendsetters were quick to catch on to the trend, and of course, Carrie Bradshaw from Sex and the City, too, stunned the pavement in a tie-dye design.
Today, the hemlines above the ankle are once again dominating summer wardrobes. Somewhere between shorts and full-length pants, the quarter-length options, including the capris, pedal pushers, and even jorts, offer the ease of warm-weather dressing without having to sacrifice composure—your short shorts might not be the best option for some settings! Their versatility is perhaps the biggest appeal, but they are no less a high-fashion regular.
Slim & Slits
When in doubt, pull out Hepburn’s classic style from Old Hollywood. A black pair of capris that cut off just mid-calf, finished with subtle side slits, the classic truly stands the test of time. The no-nonsense bottoms are understated yet add a touch of femininity, especially when paired with babydoll tops or patterned blouses. Ballet flats, kitten heels, and delicate sandals further emphasise the length of the pants, giving the ensemble a clean finish.
Romantic Details
Taking the pair up a notch, today’s interpretations experiment with far more playful details. Ruffles, lace trims, and layered hems transform the once-minimalist garment into something far more whimsical, proving that capris can be as expressive as they are practical.
Relaxed & Simple
Longer shorts aren’t limited to body-hugging silhouettes. A relaxed cut offers a casual and laidback take on the trend, especially when contrasted with romantic blouses. Be it a dainty prairie top like Joy’s or a ruffled neckline like Jennie’s, the mix of casual bottoms and boho elements creates a balanced look that feels dolled-up without appearing overly prim.
Jorts
Previously rooted in hip-hop and skate culture, oversized jorts have become a wardrobe staple well beyond streetwear. The relaxed silhouette makes them comfortable in the heat, and unlike their lighter peers, the denim is renowned for its durability. Plus, denim being outmoded is still very much unheard of. From the Hadid sisters’ off-duty style to celebrities such as Ling Ling Kwong and Minnie from I-dle embracing oversized silhouettes, jorts have become one of summer’s easiest pieces to wear.
Cargos
Cargo capris prove that utility pockets can be chic. Oversized pockets naturally become the statement of the outfit, but really, who will complain about having too many pockets? Yujin, for instance, pairs beige cargo capris with a baby pink top, allowing the muted creamy palette to soften the design of the capris. Pairing the baggy silhouette with flats is a useful styling tip, as it exposes the ankles and prevents the overall look from feeling too heavy. For a more rugged look, throw in some prints, preferably the camo pattern as seen on Chaeyoung.
Bermuda Shorts
The Bermuda shorts are for those leaning towards preppy summer. Button-ups, leather belts, and a pair of pristine white sneakers, and this ensemble is perfect even for courtside fashion as seen on Becky. For a semi-formal occasion, we are taking a cue from Thai actress View Benyapa, as she slides into the neutral palette, sporting her matching blazer-Bermuda set with pointed heels and a small top-handle bag.
The comeback of long shorts raised a few eyebrows, but hear us out: the resurgence feels less like a fleeting fad and more like a worthwhile investment. The capris, pedal pushers, and jorts work best as a transitional garment, as much as a trench coat does. Its quarter-length design, too, is one for wearers to play around with proportions—the beauty of it lies in its expansiveness in styling. Paired with ballet flats for Old Hollywood glamour, ruffles for a boho moment, or a casual tee for running errands, the in-between hemline proves that practicality doesn’t mean leaving style at the back of the wardrobe.
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