How to Style Capri Pants, According to Fashion Experts

June 26, 2026

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When I saw capris trending again, in the likes of LA cool girls Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber, my first thought was Kelly Kapowski and Jessie Spano roaming the halls of Bayside High. (Yes, I’m a “Saved by the Bell” type of millennial.) But then I found a simple black pair and started incorporating them into my 2026 wardrobe to my incredible delight. Turns out, there’s no need to fear this particular trend, and fashion experts agree.

“The great thing about fashion is that trends always come back,” says Jaz Gandhi, a Los Angeles-based fashion designer, and part of the styling duo Jaz + Sarah. “Don’t be afraid to embrace the pieces you wore 10 to 15 years ago. That’s the beauty of fashion.” LA-based celebrity stylist Austin Niesner agrees: “When styled right, they feel effortless and pair easily with a variety of versatile pieces to keep your style fresh.”

Niesner also points out that capris are a great hot weather alternative to shorts – a piece of clothing I always have trouble feeling comfortable in. I’m sold! But styling is another matter.

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Gandhi assures me that capris can look good and cutnot2003-like in the right proportions. It’s not about hiding your body, but rather creating a balanced silhouette.

“We always say, you don’t want to show too much on either side of your body,” she said. “If you’re going for a short skirt and tank look, pair it with a great blazer, bomber or leather jacket. If you’re going with jeans, pair [them] with a sexy shirt and blouse.” The same can be said for capris, which is why you’ll see them paired with house blouses, track jackets or layering, like the model above.

“When all else fails, follow the Third Rule,” adds Niesner. “For example, a pair of baby pants or a cropped top will make up one-third of your body, while capris will take up two-thirds. On the other hand, wearing a collared shirt or blazer that’s slightly larger will take up two-thirds, and capris will take up one-third. Use this rule to ensure your outfit looks long and well-proportioned.”

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For everyday activities, brunch with friends or casual drinks, stylist and content creator Andrea Lublin likes to “pair knee-length capris with leaxe-fit-down and feminine ballet flats, which give girls power,” she said.

And – like almost anything – you can’t go wrong with a plain white tee. “It’s a classic, chic and modern touch to any look,” added Gandhi. “To elevate the look, pair with a chunky kitten heel, heeled sandals or ballet flats to give that modern touch.”

Of course, you can also have fun with modern colors, textures and prints. “The great thing about capris is that they allow you to have fun with every outfit,” says Niesner. “Try a polka-dot top for a pattern, a halter top in a bright color or a cropped nylon jacket to accentuate the dimension.”

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But if you want to wear them, even to a casual office job, Niesner says to pair capris with your casual work-ready clothes, thinking about the whole look. “Capris with an hourglass blazer for a modern fit, or a dress shirt under an oversized blazer, both are great options,” he said. “While many wear oversized white shirts with capris, a black shirt will set you apart from the crowd while still looking professional.”

And be careful with shoes if you want to keep capris appropriate for work. “Loafers, ballet flats or Mary-Janes can be the best shoe for your everyday office look,” says Gandhi.

Do you go out at night after work? That’s easy, too. Gandhi likes to add “an open-heeled sandal or mules” and Lublin likes “a silk cami and a big blazer over the shoulders” for a perfect evening look.