Capris, Part 2…Shop For These, Not Those

Thank you to Fabuliss blog reader, Lynn, who asked for ideas about where to find more flattering capris with flare.  I suggested this flared style in a previous post, where I showed off my own capris.

In general, capris will be more flattering when they mimic the shape of the leg.  A tapered, a relaxed fit or a balloon-like fit with a cinched bottom will not flatter nearly as much as a fitted capri.

Additionally, if the shape follows the curves of the leg, length should not be an issue.  They can be short or to the ankle.

And make sure that the capris are just as flattering from the side as they are from the front.  They should show the shape of the leg and not straight lines or an upside-down triangle.

Before you see some great examples of capris, let’s look at examples of what capris to stay away from, and why.

Note: these comments can be applied to all types of crops and capris – from dressy to athletic.

Avoid: Too baggy or too tight

Neither of these looks is flattering regardless of whether you’re a size 0 or a size 20.

• On the left, this is the equivalent of a mom jean with the high waist, tucked in shirt and non-existent leg curves.
• In the middle, this relaxed, slightly tapered look (classic JJill) looks sloppy and implies a march larger shape.
• On the right, you can see that too tight – especially in a light color – is a disaster.

Avoid: Too much.  Period.

Again, it doesn’t matter what size you are.  If there’s too much happening, it just doesn’t work.

• On the left, all the ties and extra material make the skinny model look like she has no shape.
• In the middle, the whiskering and fading, plus the shapeless leg, is a classic case of people seeing your clothes and not you.
• And on the right, all the stitching plus small pockets and a strange length does not flatter.

OK, now that we’ve reviewed what doesn’t work, let’s look at some fine examples of what does work for regular, petite and plus sizes.

Do: Casual denim

These denim examples show off those gorgeous legs!  Dark denim with minimal styling/embellishment is always preferred for a universally more flattering look.

Pair these (and all capris/crops) with a wedge heel to give your curves even more shape – especially your calves.  If you’re buying stretch denim, always opt for a tighter fit in the seat and thigh because they’ll stretch with wear.

• Regular: CJ by Cookie Johnson ‘Mercy’ Crop Jeans (Cosmos Wash), Nordstrom, $117
• Petite: Style & Co. Petite Jeans, Tummy Control Bling Capri Rinse Wash, Macy’s, $44
• Plus: Tommy Hilfiger, Cropped Angela Wash, Macy’s, $69.50

Do: Colorful casual

If you’re looking for a lighter fabric than denim, try a casual capri in a color.  Look for fabrics like poplin or a lightweight stretch cotton.

A metallic or colored sandal or peep toe wedge works well with these color and white options.

• Regular: Not Your Daughter’s Jeans Tummy Tuck Capri Jeans, Nordstrom, $79
• Petite: DKNY Petite Jeans, Soho Cuffed Capri White Wash, Macy’s, $49
• Plus: Pedal Pushers with Asymmetrical Cuffs, Lane Bryant, $49.50

Do: Dress it up

Capris can be a great summer alternative to pants (if acceptable in your workplace) and a more casual alternative to skirts.

Despite all of these examples being black or navy, a dressy capri can also come in a color like white or green.  Look for fabrics like sateen cotton, linen/silk blend or wool crepe.  You want them to drape nicely while showing off those fabulous curves!

Pair them with a pump or heeled sandal to top off the dressy tone.

• Regular: Exclusively Misook Button Detail Crop Knit Pants, Nordstrom, $230
• Petite: Lauren by Ralph Lauren Aglaia Stretch Sateen Ankle, Macy’s, $69.50
• Plus: Style & Co. Skinny Cuffed Capri, Macy’s, $52

If you need help picking out capris, pairing them with the rest of your closet or help building your summer wardrobe, Fabuliss can help!  Learn more at Fabuliss.com, where you can sign up for special offers via the eNewsletter, or contact me at hello@fabuliss.com.