Tips and Inspiration
From Unilever Beauty Experts
Life is unfair, and I know it is because the last time I wore capri pants to campus, my friend quipped, “Is there a flood somewhere?” That very same friend unironically wore cropped leggings to the gym seven years later. No cheeky jabs were thrown her way.
I’ve always been pro-capris, even when they were locked away in fashion jail. Naturally, I feel vindicated by the news that calf-baring trousers are on the precipice of another comeback. Just ask Hailey Bieber, who’s been spotted in sleek polka-dot capris on the streets of New York City, or Anne Hathaway, who swapped her 2025 Met Gala skirt for a tailored black pair at the after-party.
Filipina style icons have also given capris their stamp of approval. Heart Evangelista put an elegant spin on the look by pairing hers with a white blouse in an Instagram post last summer. Meanwhile, Anne Curtis showed how a simple pair can be a comfy and stylish choice for a family day out in Disneyland California.
It has been long overdue, given that tube tops and ballet flats (a.k.a. the peanut butter to pedal pushers’ jam) have already sashayed back into everyone’s wardrobes.
So, do capri pants deserve another moment in the sun, or should they remain a fond memory? If you’re on the fence, let me convince you to say yes to capris.
As polarizing as capri pants may be, you can’t deny how comfortable they are, especially in summer (and even during the habagat season; I know, my friend is right). The ¾ length covers just enough skin while allowing air to breeze around the lower part of your legs, which makes it very commuter-friendly. Another big selling point for women with thick thighs: Cropped trousers don’t ride up the crotch the way shorts often do. And have I mentioned no chafing?
Of course, comfort isn’t the only thing you factor in when shopping for bottoms. After all, you can always put on tracksuits and call it a day. Style is equally – if not more – important, and capris have a lot of it. They exude a quiet luxury vibe when paired with a simple boatneck top à la Audrey Hepburn, but they can cross over to the sporty side when worn with a fitted tank or a bomber jacket.
Having a short stature, I love how capri pants make my legs look longer. The cut accentuates my ankles and creates an illusion of height without overwhelming my silhouette. These mid-calf pants are definitely a superb addition to petite girl outfits. Perhaps that’s why I kept wearing them well after everyone else had moved on to mom jeans.
I’d be the first to admit that wearing capri pants isn’t all sunshine and butterflies. Although the cropped length of the trousers is a much-appreciated perk on hot days, it also means my lower legs are on full display. Correction: My hairy, mosquito-bitten lower legs are out in the open.
Honestly, I have no qualms about showing my spotty and hairy legs, but sometimes they make me feel a bit self-conscious. When I want to cover up more, I grab a pair of full-length trousers instead of capris. That’s the beauty of fashion – there are options for different moods and circumstances.
If you’re troubled by skin discoloration like I am, know that there are tools at your disposal. Use Dove Gentle Exfoliating Body Wash to help exfoliate your skin gently and even out your skin tone. The formula is gentle and equipped with NutriumMoisture™ technology that restores the skin’s natural nutrients.
Additionally, moisturizing regularly can help improve skin texture and fade dark marks over time. Try showering with Dove Go Fresh Sakura Blossom Body Wash to nourish and hydrate your skin. It has Microbiome Gentle Skin Prebiotics formula, which preserves the skin’s moisture level while fortifying the barrier function. Slather on body lotion after showering, while your skin is still damp.
The capri-ssance waits for no one, so don’t be the last to jump on the trend. Check out these chic capri pants ensembles for inspiration.
When in doubt, work your outfit around the color of your capris to create a cohesive look. For instance, if your pair is in beige, wear a top in a similar shade, like eggshell or ivory. Complete the combo with a pop of color by adding outerwear or handbag in complementary hues.
On a regular day, you don’t want to look like you’ve just been to a Y2K-themed party (unless you do – which is okay!). Embrace simplicity by wearing minimal layers and going easy on the accessories. A pair of capris, a blazer, sunnies, and a pearl necklace are enough to make a statement.
If you don’t want to reveal your bare legs for whatever reason, layer your capris over black tights. Spice up the look with strappy heels or Mary Jane shoes.
If fashion trends have taught me anything, it’s that anything – even the most hated piece of clothing – can make a return. Just like capri pants. Once relegated to the back of the drawers, they’re finding their way back to people’s hearts. I, for one, am thrilled to wear mine again without having to hear my friend’s snarky remarks about floods.