You’re probably thinking, “really?” and honestly, same. There’s something incredibly jarring about watching a full fashion cycle play out – we’re almost never ready for it and it’s often the subject of polarising debate.
But unlike the revival of low-rise jeans, I’m not mad about the comeback of capri pants. In fact, I welcome it.
Style icons like Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe popularised this calf-baring silhouette and broke pants into the mainstream for women at a time when they were previously reserved for men.
And while Hepburn’s legendary Sabrina look from the 1954 film spotlighted a classic, black pair with a cinched waist fit, it turns out capri pants are actually much more versatile than I once thought.
There are modern, timeless staples to refresh your capsule wardrobe, as well as vibrant statement pieces that add zing to the everyday outfit. Loose, Bermudian styles are perfect for comfortable wear, while more figure-hugging tights have “date night” written all over them.
Whichever it is, here are our favourite picks – plus how to style them – so you can get ready for spring, stat.
Fifteen of the best capri pants
Paloma Wool Bourgeois capri shorts
$370
Paloma Wool is a Spanish brand that’s always reimagining the fashion of a bygone era. Follow the styling cues of retailer Incu and wear neutral tones up top with silver ballet pumps down below.The Frankie Shop Emersyn capri pants
$395
The Frankie Shop is owned by a New Yorker originally from France, whose trademark style is smart, structured suiting. Capris are a natural offering for the brand and you can pick up a pair in black, charcoal or burgundy.Matteau long chino shorts
$632
If you’re still adjusting to the idea of cropped pants, inch your way there with a pair of bermuda shorts. Made from organic cotton-blend in Australia, this Matteau set features a wide leg cut with a 90s-inspired waist.Acne Studios pink corduroy shorts
$630
Attention, corduroy is also back. This set of shorts from Acne Studios have been crafted in an organic-grown cotton and washed in a tango pink, seamlessly designed for those grey sky days where a pop of colour is a must.Guizio Caria black capri leggings
$265
Guizio is all about form-fitting silhouettes, and so these black capris in a stretch rayon and nylon blend make total sense here. Featuring bow accents at the leg’s cuff, this pair does in fact feel very cutesy and very demure.Muse The Label Gwen capri pants
$325
Designed and made in Melbourne by a mother and daughter duo, the Gwen pants are a slow and sustainable approach to the iconic capri style. Design seams through the front and back add texture and contrast, and the charcoal hue makes for ultimate wardrobe versatility.Kahe Back Buckle long shorts
$336
Jorts have played a big part in the journey to capris and this list would simply be incomplete without a nod to that history. This pair from Melbourne brand Kahe is available in black and indigo and features a vintage-inspired belt buckle that sits at the back.Jacquemus Caraco cropped pants
$817 – currently 45 per cent off
Leave it to Jacquemus to make classic capri pants even sexier. Slim-fitting with lingerie-inspired straps, this pair has been woven in a wool blend and spotlights a gold-toned buckle that welcomes your match of accessories.St Agni black bermuda shorts
$449
If you’re looking for a looser-fitting capri, the bermuda shorts from St Agni are ideal for a slouchy yet polished look. Crafted in a wool blend, this style is completely trans-seasonal and will pair perfectly with everything from riding boots to leather sandals.Christopher Esber silk pedal pusher
$590
The mahogany pedal pushers by Australian designer Christopher Esber redefine the casual dress code. Silk in fabric and fitted in cut, it’s garments like this that win you over to the capri-naissance.The Frankie Shop Romane capri shorts
$230
The Frankie Shop strikes again, but this time in a shorter variant. Is beige the dark horse in this race to find the best capri pants? Combine with a pointed mule and an oversized blazer for The Frankie Shop’s trademark look.Issey Miyake Pleats Please cropped trousers
$653
For a textural choice that can be dressed up or down, the iconic Pleats Please collection by Issey Miyake is a must. Take styling cues from the brand’s retailer Farfetch and match with leather clogs.Mode Mischief bamboo capri pants
$117.70
“But what about comfort?” I hear you say. The Mode Mischief capri uses a soft, heavy-weight bamboo jersey and features a subtle flare at the hem to ease the slow – but inevitable – trend back to skinny jeans. They’re also made in Australia.J Crew Kate linen capri pants
$164 – currently 28 per cent off
J Crew is all about making modern classics with character and the brand’s capri pants are no exception. Designed with a straight line cut in a stretch linen blend, it’s set to become that feel-good staple you’ll always reach for.Jacquemus Le Pantalon Areia capri trousers
$478 – currently 53 per cent off
The French are synonymous with a cropped pant, so here’s another option by Jacquemus. Made from a faded jute and silk blend, this style features contrast stitching that pops when accompanied by tangerine or coral.We hope you like the products we recommend on Broadsheet. Our editors select each one independently. Broadsheet may receive an affiliate commission when you follow some links.
