Capris aren’t new to the fashion zeitgeist, yet that doesn’t mean that the concept has been fully digested. The style has spent years occupying a complicated place in fashion. Some swear by them, others insist they’re impossible to wear. The silhouette is often dubbed difficult to style – set at an undefined length and erring on the tight side for those who prefer a looser fit – leaving most to shy away from giving the look a go.
Summer 2026 has officially settled the debate. With everything middy, from skirts to knee-grazing dresses, dominating this Summer’s mood boards.
From sporty leggings to tailored linen pairs, today’s capris are less about a specific body type and more about finding the right silhouette. Consider this your guide to the pair that works for you.
THE MORNING RUSH
For running errands on a scorching summer’s morning, comfort naturally becomes the priority.
Think of this as a homage to early-2000s capri sport style, minus the Disney Channel skirt layering. Oysho‘s Comfortlux pair are cut from a buttery-soft technical fabric with a super high-rise waist, making them the sort of leggings you’ll reach for on repeat. Style with an oversized white shirt, chunky sunglasses and your favourite trainers for a look that feels considered rather than straight-from-the-gym.
Bershka‘s more elevated version comes in the form of a slimmer tailored fit with subtle hem vents. The clean silhouette makes them surprisingly versatile. Pair them with a ribbed tank and leather sandals during the day, then switch into a kitten heel for dinner. Proof that capris don’t have to live exclusively in the casualwear category.
A TABLE FOR TWO, PLEASE
For a matcha and bite under the sun, lean into the kind of effortless dressing that feels as though you’ve just wandered out of a 2000s rom-com. Carrie Bradshaw’s iconic capri looks are reverberating back into the fashion sphere, from khaki cut-offs to breezy white tops.
Rota Pieces‘s loose-fitting cargo-inspired pair captures that same energy, balancing utility details with a relaxed silhouette. Add a tailored shirt, wedge flip-flops and a woven tote for a look that feels equal parts city and summer escape.
Massimo Dutti‘s ankle-grazing black button capris offer a more understated entry point into the trend. The decorative side buttons add just enough interest without overwhelming the outfit, making them ideal for those still testing the waters. Pair with sleek black ballet flats and, for an extra styling point, tie a fringed scarf around the waist in place of a belt.
SALT ON YOUR SKIN
For a lazy beach day, capris become the perfect in-between piece. Easy enough to throw over swimwear, yet polished enough for an impromptu lunch that stretches long past sunset.
Damson Madder‘s linen wrap pair delivers exactly that balance. The relaxed fit and soft pink shade feel playful without tipping into overly sweet territory. Add a colourful bikini top underneath an oversized shirt and some simple flip-flops to achieve that city-girl-on-holiday aesthetic that dominates every Sahel summer mood board.
Peachy Den‘s tartan set feels made for those beach days that inevitably turn into lunch, drinks and an extended walk home. The cropped silhouette keeps things relaxed while the matching print makes the outfit feel intentional. Throw a crisp white button-down over the top and you’ve got an easy look that works just as well at a beachside spot as it does back in the city.
AFTER GOLDEN HOUR
For an evening out with the girls, capris take on an entirely different personality. The key is structure. Pair them with pointed kitten heels, sculptural jewellery and a top that feels a little more elevated than your daytime uniform.
Mango‘s linen capris strike that difficult balance between polished and effortless. Worn with a wrap-front shirt and bold gold jewellery, the subtle side slits create movement that softens the cropped silhouette.
Alternatively, Jacquemus‘ sleek high-rise pair leans fully into Riviera dressing. The streamlined fit feels refined rather than restrictive, especially when styled with an off-the-shoulder top or oversized linen blazer. This is the capri for late lunches that stretch long after sunset.
