Capri pants have emerged once again, bringing a retro flair to contemporary fashion. These stylish bottoms find their place between cropped leggings and traditional shorts, reminiscent of iconic figures like Audrey Hepburn, Brigitte Bardot, and Marilyn Monroe. Yes, Capri pants are back in style for another round.

This trend is akin to a rare cosmic event, resurfacing just long enough for many to forget the nuances of their previous iterations. Consider this a gentle reminder from the fashion world to approach Capri pants with thoughtful deliberation.

On a hot day, do you find yourself irritable in snug clothing? Or perhaps you prefer to avoid looks reminiscent of classic dance conventions? If so, you might want to pass on this trend—unless, of course, you identify with Rizzo from “Grease” and are looking to make a fashion statement.

Reflect on whether you have a tendency to reach for skinny jeans, as Capri pants share some visual similarities. Whether you call them pedal pushers or clam diggers, at their core, these are form-fitting cropped trousers. Notably, the resurgence of Capri pants aligns with discussions around weight loss trends and a shift towards thinner style ideals.

While Capri pants may seem appealing in theory—exuding an air of Nantucket charm in gingham or a chic Amalfi vibe in black—their retro connotation can make them challenging to wear without veering into costume territory. It’s rare to see someone effortlessly donning a pair without evoking images of classic icons, and sometimes the comparison leads to amusing portrayals.

During a recent trip to New York, I noticed Capri pants making waves as a polished off-duty style, channeling the effortless vibe of characters like Carrie Bradshaw. Given the current trend of monochrome outfits, black Capri pants pair perfectly with a loose white shirt or a structured tee. For those seeking alternatives to this season’s wide boardshorts, high-waisted options can be found at various retailers, providing a stylish, versatile look.

Moreover, I noticed another popular choice—slim-cut cropped trousers—offering a more subdued yet equally fashionable look. These trousers, such as those from Arket featuring a slight kick flare, can easily stand in for Capri pants while providing greater longevity in style. Pair them with comfortable shoes, like low-heeled clogs or classic black ballet flats, while avoiding accessories like neck scarves and cat-eye sunglasses to maintain a balanced appearance.