This past spring and summer, capri pants—characterized by their above-the-knee hems—held a commanding presence in the fashion world. But the tides are shifting, and now cropped pants that gracefully skim above the ankle are making their way into street-style ensembles, signaling a fresh perspective on pant proportions. A perfect illustration of this trend is Jennifer Lopez’s recent chic ensemble.
While shopping in L.A. yesterday, J.Lo opted for a sophisticated look by trading her usual wide-leg, full-length jeans for sleek, cropped, tailored black trousers. While some of my fashion-forward friends and I have previously deemed cropped pants “dated,” J.Lo’s impeccable styling changed my perspective entirely. She paired the cropped trousers with a Dior sweater, lace-up ballet flats, oversize sunglasses, and a Chanel bag, creating an effortlessly elegant look.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
On Jennifer Lopez: Dior D-Joy flats; Dior Tied Collar Sweater ($2050); Chanel Perfect Edge Bag ($3240)
It’s no shocker that J.Lo is championing this retro pants trend, especially as fitted silhouettes rise to prominence on runways everywhere. We’ve observed a noticeable transition in styles, moving from oversize blazers to more cinched silhouettes and from baggy to skinny jeans. Furthermore, the cropped pant trend is a natural evolution from the pedal pushers that graced the warm-weather seasons, offering a bit more fabric to provide warmth for the fall and winter.
For those searching for the best capri pants to integrate into their wardrobes, the market offers an extensive array of styles, from budget-friendly to designer pieces. Ahead, explore some of our favorite styles available right now.
Shop our favorite cropped pants:
MANGO
Buttons Straight-Fit Trousers
If I didn’t know better, I’d say these $70 pants were designer.
ZARA
Zw Collection Capri Pants
Style with ballet flats or kitten heels.
Stock up on this insanely affordable style.
Vince
Mid Rise Flannel Culottes
These also come in a gorgeous brown.
THE ROW
Essentials Sovino Stretch-Crepe Skinny Pants
Take these from the office to happy hour with friends.
MOTHER
The Insider Flood Cropped Pants
Black leather pants are a wardrobe staple not to be without.
J.Crew
Delaney Kickout Sweater Pant
Shoppers love these best-selling pants because of how soft they are.
Banana Republic
Crop Flare Everywhere Ponte Pants
You’ll have these in your wardrobe for years to come.
ATM Anthony Thomas Melillo
Ponte Knit Kick Flare Pants
Massimo Dutti
Cropped Flared Trousers
An absolute classic no matter how you style it.
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