How to Style Capri Pants in a Grown Up Way

There have been several fashion trends that have come into the spotlight that quite frankly would have never been on my radar. Capri pants are one of them.

However, I must admit that after buying my own pair and testing out some outfits, I can see why they’ll be popular this fall. They’re comfortable, easy to throw on, and they offer a simple look — making them a great “starter” pant for anyone who is trying to switch up their regular denim game.

When I first talked about putting capri pant outfits together, many of you vocalized the same concerns I had: What do you wear with them? How do you make them look more “grown up?” What shoes do you style with capri pants?

The list of questions was growing long, but as with most things, it really came down to not overthinking things. Because capri pants have been around for so many years, they offer a classic look that’s pretty difficult to mess up. Think of them as a blank canvas that you can have some fun with, whether you pair them with a leather jacket and heels or a basic sweater and ballet flats.

If you’re someone who loves specific ideas, I’m sharing exactly how to style capri pants below. All of these outfits are ideal for those who feel intimidated by the styling process — and they all are perfect to wear from summer to fall!

How to Style Capri Pants

Capri Pants and Ballet Flats

If you tend to lean toward more feminine pieces in your wardrobe (I’m looking at you year-round dress wearers) then this is the outfit for you. Keep a sense of your softer side by styling some sleek black capri pants with an understated pair of ballet flats. The duo feels somewhat unexpected yet results in a chic and sophisticated look that you could wear from day to night.

Any top would work, but I personally love the idea of a lightweight sweater or even a cardigan (especially as we inch toward transitional weather!)

Capri Pants and a Blazer

Sure, capri pants might have a reputation for being on the more casual side, but who doesn’t love to take a basic closet staple and dress it up? You can easily achieve this by throwing on a blazer and some heels. Keep things simple on top by sticking with a neutral shirt or tank (there’s something about black and white that just reads more elevated.)

If heels feel like a bit too much for the occasion you’re dressing for, some chunky loafers or mules would also work. Also, don’t underestimate just how much accessories can impact your overall look. Adding some gold jewelry, like earrings, bracelets, and a couple of rings, can go a long way.

Capri Pants and Heels

For an undeniably stylish capri pant look, add a pair of heels as your shoe of choice. During the day, you could opt for something more casual by swapping the heels for ballet flats or sandals. However, when left as is, this is a good go-to that you could wear to an office, happy hour, or on a date!

Plus, I personally love the combo of black and tan shades in this outfit — it’s a rich duo that’s pretty and on-theme for the fall months.

Capri Pants and a Leather Jacket

Capri pants might feel like a blast from the past, but nowadays they offer a major cool girl vibe (when styled right.) Get the look by pairing them with an oversized graphic tee and a black leather jacket. Not only does this provide a cute way to wear layers, but it also dresses down a more formal pair of capri pants.

p.s. When in doubt, you can’t go wrong by opting for white sneakers as your shoe of choice! They complement just about every outfit and they’re practical (and supportive enough) for all-day wear.

I hope this post left you with some inspiration on how to style capri pants! Let me know which outfit idea is your favorite by commenting in the section below.