When Lesley sent me an article about how Parisians are wearing shorter capris again, my first reaction was a mix of curiosity and disbelief. Capri pants always get a bad rap. But then again, it’s always important not to say never when it comes to life, so I thought maybe if we combined the style as part of Capri sets, we might like the look.
Quote of the day: “Old ways won’t open new doors.” Unknown
So what began as a fun email communication with Lesley turned into an experiment with items already in our closet.
When I first read the article about this new trend, I was secretly glad I hadn’t purged those red capris that I almost rejected.
While I realize the article showcases a more fitted pair of trousers, I believe it’s always good to take a trend and make it work for yourself. And that’s what I wanted us to do for this fashion showcase for Capri sets.
We’re showcasing what I’m calling the Capri sets, in the way they aren’t just Capri pants styled individually, but coordinating outfits that mimic the top-and-bottom sets we’ve all seen trending lately.
Think about it as intentional styling, either with color play, proportion balance, and a little sass thrown in for good measure.
The other big factor in deciding to entertain the thought of this newer length for our Capri sets? I’ve seen very similar ones at Old Navy, WHBM, the Gap, or heck, EVEN Anthropology (I mean, just look at that cute outfit). And the length is very similar to the “long shorts” I’ve been seeing.
Why the “Capri Set” Works Even if the Length Feels New
I’ll be honest in that this just-below-the-knee length is shorter than what many of us are used to. We’ve all been trained to gravitate toward ankle pants or knee-length shorts depending on the season.
And many of us are brainwashed into thinking that we need to cover up our “imperfections,” not showcase them.
So I pondered if there was a way to make something we aren’t used to seem cute. My answer? Making it feel like a cohesive outfit or going for a capris set.
When your top either matches or complements your capri pants boldly or unexpectedly, it creates the illusion of a set. I figured most women love a “set”, and we could do this even if we didn’t buy the pieces together.
Insider tip: Do you remember how you first felt when skinny jeans came out? I bet most of us thought we’d never wear them (me, included). But the more we see something, the more it becomes the norm in our eyes. So even if these capri sets aren’t your style, I hope you always keep an open fashion mind.
Jodie: Mesh Texture
Since I had been struggling with styling my red capris, I figured making it a capris set might do the trick. I wore a mesh red top with a red cami under for the top half.
The textures are different, but the monochromatic effect creates that “set” feeling.
Why I love this: Matching colors in unexpected fabrics gives it interest while still feeling cohesive. Plus, I believe in the magic of modern footwear, so the rope sandals make it contemporary.
Details:
-I wore a scarf tied into a rose (video) and pinned it to my waistband. Not only does it add personality, but it also adds other colors and textures.
-This vintage purse was my bestie’s mom’s purse from ages ago.
-Rope sandals are modern and fun. I bought these recently and have worn them tons already.
-I also added a brooch at the neckline of my mesh top.
Charlotte: Lavender Geometry
My mom wore this lavender capris set that she had in her closet. In fact, if it looks familiar, that’s because I wore it once to show many ways to change it up.
Insider tip: One thing I did when wearing it was cuff the sleeves. For this capris set example, I had my mom cuff the pants. Both are easy ways to give it a slightly different feel.
Why I love this: While pastels aren’t everyone’s favorites, I like that my mom added darker purple elements to the look. This Capri set example proves that you don’t need a head-to-toe match, but just unifying elements.
Details:
-Instead of leaving the top hanging, Charlotte added a white belt buckle shaped scarf clip as a way to hoist up the material.
-Glitter sparkle sneakers make every outfit better.
Lesley: Neutrals with Print Accessories
Lesley kept things simple but chic with a white blouse and sage green capris. It may not seem like a traditional set, but the flowy blouse with a neutral tone makes it feel intentional.
Why I love this: This look shows that your capri set doesn’t have to be bright or loud. Creating a backdrop like this allows the accessories to shine.
Details:
-Statement necklaces are always a good idea. If you don’t have one, feel free to layer single-strand ones together to create your own. Or take a chain necklace and pin brooches on it as I’ve done before.
Valerie: Retro Fun
Valerie’s outfit is probably the most playful of the group, and it’s a perfect example of how to blend retro and modern trends.
Why I love this: The blouse has multiple shades that pull from the capris, so the “set” effect happens without being too matchy-matchy.
Insider tip: Valerie shared that this retro print top came with a matching tank top, but she decided to wear a black tank instead. Brava for splitting up a “set.”
Details:
-Valerie also used a “scarf clip” to change the shape of her top. You can find a similar one on Etsy.
-Fun and cool sunnies add so much personality to the look.
-She also cuffed her Capri pants, which created a raw-like hemline…another fabulous touch.
Would You Try the Capri Sets Trend?
If you’re still unsure about the shorter capri length, remember: fashion is all about experimenting. Try starting with capris in a color or silhouette you already feel good in, then pair them with a coordinating top.
Insider tip: Take longer capris that you already have and cuff them or tuck them under and pin them to get an idea of how you like this look. No sewing or buying something new is involved that way.
You don’t need to spend a fortune or even buy a matching set; just find pieces in your closet that echo each other in color, tone, or texture.
And I always like to look at how the different lengths of tops look next to each other. Check out the different lengths in the photo below.
As I like to say, keep in mind the rear view, because just as many people see you from that perspective.
Final Thoughts
We’re always told to dress for our shape, our age, or the weather. But what if we also dressed for curiosity? For play? For that spark we get when something just feels fresh?
Related post: Wearing capris without frump
This shorter capri silhouette might not be what you’re used to, but neither was the internet once. Just think of all of the changes we go through, and style is top of the list.
Fashion keeps evolving, and we can either ignore it or play with it. Around here, we (and by “we,” I mean me and I twist everyone else’s arm to join in) prefer to play.
Insider tip: It’s beneficial to play with our outfits and try new styles. The best part is it’s not permanent like a tattoo.
So thanks to Lesley’s fashion-forward article find, we’re not just seeing capris sets, we’re seeing possibility. And maybe a little Parisian inspiration per the article.
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Welcome to Jodie’s Touch of Style. I’m here to prove that it’s never too late to look great. Clothing and style are meant to showcase your inner personality. So let’s have fun and try new things.
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