Capri pants, once popularized by Carrie Bradshaw in “Sex and the City,” are making a comeback. These pants, beloved by Hollywood icon Audrey Hepburn, are now being appreciated by a new generation for their laid-back summer style.
Celebrities like Kendall Jenner, Anne Hathaway, and Emily Ratajkowski have been spotted in calf-length leggings, while Hailey Bieber has attracted attention with a pair featuring a polka dot design. It seems like every brand is joining in, offering their own twist on this style.
Capris have transitioned into a more refined, often stretchy fabric, reminiscent of mid-century fashion. Initially, they were simply shorter versions of low-rise pants, especially popular among millennials during the early 2000s, noted for their decorative embellishments like sparkly designs and cargo pockets.
One millennial, Elisa Mara, expressed her disdain on social media, stating, “I hate them—capri leggings are just the worst!” Becca Lynn, a 42-year-old nurse from Chelsea, shared similar sentiments about regretting their resurgence.
Megan Reynolds, an editor and author, voiced her disappointment, saying, “I think it’s very upsetting.” Even at 43, Angela Betancourt, who recently unearthed a pink pair from her closet, remarked on feeling older with their return, but found herself enjoying them again.
Fashion historian Robert Osant highlighted the lack of appeal among men for capris, suggesting that brands often push opposing trends to shift consumer wardrobes. He noted that the allure of capris persists among southern French supermodels, which lends them continued attraction.
Capris have been known by various names, such as pedal pushers or Toador pants, and trace their origins back to the 1940s. Creativity around the pants partly stemmed from the 1930s, when figures like Katharine Hepburn and Amelia Earhart pushed the boundaries for women in pants. During World War II, many women traded dresses for jeans and coveralls as they worked in factories.
Daniel James Cole, a fashion expert, mentioned that capris were Christian Dior’s counter-response to ultra-feminine styles, providing a way for women to wear pants without overpowering returning soldiers. They offered a unique combination of style and practicality.
Stars such as Marilyn Monroe and Grace Kelly helped propel capris to fame. Hepburn’s embrace of them was iconic, showcasing them in films like “Roman Holiday” and “Funny Face.” Likewise, Mary Tyler Moore challenged traditional roles on television by donning capris in her show.
Emma Bennett, a 23-year-old fashion student, recently bought a polka dot pair inspired by a 60s aesthetic after watching a film featuring Elle Fanning’s bohemian style. Meanwhile, stylist Julie Matos fondly recalled buying her first capris during a childhood shopping trip, and she has maintained a love for them ever since.
While some fashion enthusiasts, like Isabel Sloan, express a newfound desire for vintage capris, others, like Angela Betancourt, are reminiscing with mixed feelings. Betancourt shared her initial trepidation upon their return, recalling photos that didn’t align with her memories of how she looked.
This summer, capris are reclaiming their place in wardrobes, much to the surprise and delight of some. As Betancourt chuckled, “The last time I wore capris was during ‘Sex and the City,’ and now I’m wearing them again! It feels just right.”
