There’s a Kendall Jenner outfit from 2024 that lives rent-free in my brain. It’s been on my mind since last year because it was so divisive (which is not surprising coming from her), but also because it shined light on one very controversial pants trend I haven’t thought about since 2010. In fact, I haven’t slipped into them since I donated my last pair after graduating college (in 2012). But now, 2025 Eva has an utter fixation on said pants that are divisive to their core, but undeniably chic—and there’s a slew of celebrities to thank for their elegant resurgence.
If you didn’t already guess, I’m talking about capri pants. The knee-grazing, most-often tight-fitting pants style is divisive and hotly debated, though undeniably chic and comfortable. In case you don’t think so, I kindly remind you that capris were a key facet of Audrey Hepburn’s style in the ‘50s. She wore the style in the film Sabrina, quickly turning the pants into an ‘It’ item. Fast forward to 2025. Celebs like Anne Hathaway (the chicest) and Dua Lipa have followed in Jenner’s and Hepburn's footsteps (err, pantsteps?).
People typically hate on the length of capris. “Pants that stop at the knee?” Sure, the calf-exposing design might irk some, but if you really think about it, it’s ideal for summer. Picture it like your go-to knee-length skirt. The pants are the perfect middle ground between short-shorts (which I simply will never wear again) and floor-grazing bottoms that might not feel the most comfortable on hot, humid summer days.
Capris are also highly versatile—and deep to their (design) core, super chic. Wear them with a fitted white baby tee and heeled flip-flops for a super classic take, or dress them down with chunky white sneakers and a baseball cap.
Shop my six favorite capris, from classic stretchy options to more refined ponte picks.
Gap
I love my ponte pants. It’s the most flattering, comfortable fabric you’ll wear. That’s why these Gap capris are at the top of my wishlist for summer. They have a subtle stretch, and elevated front seams to give the simple black bottoms some dimension. Plus, I love the pull-on design, which means no annoying zippers or buttons to deal with throughout the day. I’m sensing these might become my go-to travel pants.
Aritzia
If you want ultra-flattering capris, look no further than this contour style from Aritzia. Crafted from a double-layer fabric for maximum support and lift, they’re still ultra-comfy and offer a second-skin feel, per the brand. Sounds like my ideal pair.
Nordstrom
If you want capris that are more like a traditional pair of trousers, I suggest you take a look at these Free People bottoms. They have a trouser-like look, with a zipper and belt loops for more styling options (because belts add so much to an outfit!). Slits give the hem a bit of a flare, too. They're still stretchy and, thus, comfortable, but I’d say they lean more formal than the above options. Pair them with a fitted white tee and ballet flats for a classic French-girl look you’ll want to wear 24/7 this summer.
Check out the rest below. Before you say no to the trend, I suggest giving at least one a try.
Nordstrom
Old Navy
Nordstrom