fashion

'Capri pants are back. But if you hate them as much as me, here are the best alternatives.'

Warning: This story mentions capri pants, which can be triggering to some readers — including myself, but as the writer, I have no choice but to put aside my lifelong trauma for the sake of this story.

I'm not going to mince my words: I hate capri pants. I despise them with such a burning passion that when I discovered they were coming back in style, I sat in my room for about three days questioning why the world was out to get me and my poor ankles.

Me, thinking about capri pants for three days straight. 

If you don't believe me, Vogue France claimed last year that the "ultra-chic pant trend will soon be replacing dresses". When I first read it, I let out a big belly laugh because as if!?

But sadly, they were right. 

Damn the French for always being ahead of the curve.

And listen, if you like capri pants then don't come at me with pitchforks because if you read my stories on the reg, you would know that I'm all about encouraging personal style.

Watch: Inside My Wardrobe | Trackies. Post continues below.

Wear whatever you want! But I refuse to wear pants that can't decide whether it wants to be trousers, board shorts or just really uncomfortable leggings.

That doesn't mean I hate all cropped trousers though. In fact, I have a few pairs in my wardrobe that I wear often.

From the retro cigarette pants to the classy tapered trousers, I've found many alternatives to the capri —  and these won't go in and out of style.

So, if like me the capri pant makes you feel uneasy, but you still want to try out the trend, then keep reading, because these are my favourite alternatives.

Forcast Carter 2 Slim Pants, $79.99.

Image: Forcast.

I like to call these the modern-day capri pants, even though there's nothing modern about them. The tapered trouser is a classic style of pants that looks flattering on everyone; it's why they've stood the test of time. From actresses like Audrey Hepburn wearing them back in the '60s to the women of 2024 wearing them to the office, you won't regret adding a pair of slim pants to your wardrobe. This specific pair by Forcast is the most lovely shade of brown, but if you're more of a pastel girl, then you have plenty of options to choose from.  

H&M Ankle Length Pants, $44.99.

Image: H&M.
Unlike capri pants, which are usually fitted from the waist down to the ankle, these ankle-length pants by H&M have a looser style. The elasticated waist makes them super comfortable, and they grow with you — perfect for when you plan on having a big meal. Pair them with an oversized knit or even a t-shirt in the summer, and you've got yourself an outfit.

AERE Straight Leg Twill Pants, $120.

Image: AERE, The Iconic.
I know we've said goodbye to summer for the time being, but these pants scream beach weather, so maybe get yourself a pair before December rolls around. Similar to capri pants, these are cropped and show just the right amount of ankle; however, it's a straighter silhouette, so it's far more flattering.

Target Petites Cropped Trousers, $50.

Image: Target.

There's something about checkered cigarette pants that scream New York fashion magazine intern. Cigarette pants aren't always the easiest cut to work with; however, once you figure it out, the results are magic. The best advice I can give you is to keep it simple up top. A black turtleneck or fitted long-sleeve top is ideal. In fact, any kind of fitted top is your best friend when wearing this style of trousers.

Taking Shape Luna Culotte Pant, $89.95.

Image: Taking Shape.

Culotte pants should be your go-to for the days you want to look put-together yet still fashion-forward. They are so easy to dress up or down. If you're looking to keep it casual, pair them with some sneakers; otherwise, heels work too if you're heading out for the night.

Country Road Soft Tailored Culotte, $199.

Image: Country Road.

Another culotte, because, duh. These are similar to the pair above, except they're more structured. Unlike the Taking Shape culottes, which are made of a lighter material, these by Country Road are stiffer and look a lot more formal. Also, the creamy beige tones made me stop in my tracks, so I knew I had to include them.  

Commonry Cropped Cotton Canvas Pants, $129.95.

Image: Commonry. 

If you're going more for comfort but still want to look chic and pulled together, these Commonry cropped wide-leg trousers are a perfect option. You can pair them with heels for a more dressy option or chuck on your sneakers and go on the weekends. 

M.N.G Lille Trousers, $89.95.

Image: M.N.G, The Iconic.

This one is controversial, but I'm not afraid of the backlash. I love a pair of leather trousers, but for them to be considered flattering, they have to sit just right. The ideal length for me is a few centimetres above my ankle, making this pair by M.N.G perfect. Just add some pointed flats or heels, and you're good to go.

At Mamamia, we independently curate and write about products we rave about in our group chats and think you should know about too. If you purchase a product we have recommended, we may earn a small commission.

Feature Image: Getty.

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Top Comments

gloried 22 days ago
I love them all - capri, culottes, cigarette pants. But I empathise with loathing certain clothing items - for me it’s puffer jackets - or worse puffer vests. Flattering on no-one and completely unnecessary in Australia. 
laura__palmer 23 days ago 1 upvotes
@gloried I live in Tasmania and I agree about the puffer jackets! It's not even cold enough down here to warrant such an ugly item of clothing!
bridget_elise 22 days ago 1 upvotes
@gloried , totally appreciate that puffer jackets are shapeless and make you look like the Michelin man, but I’m from Tasmania and trust me they are necessary. In fact, they are compulsory for survival. 
bridget_elise 21 days ago
@laura__palmer what do you replace the puffer with for optimal warmth on those early winter mornings?  I hate being cold so have just relied on the Michelin man. 
laura__palmer 21 days ago
@bridget_elise just a stylish winter coat lined with wool. I'm quite warm enough with that. At the moment, I'm getting away with just a hoody. The mornings where I am up in the North-East have been quite mild. 

Are you in the North? Did you get to experience the winter wonderland snow fall a few years back in Launceston? That was puffer jacket weather!!



little lucy 24 days ago 3 upvotes
As much as you hate Capri pants…. I loath Culottes ,