Black Capri Pants Are Boring—Stylish Women Are Wearing These 7 Capri-Leggings Trends Instead

Of all the microtrends to resurface from the Y2K era, capri pants have to be one of my favourite. Unlike many who were unsure at first, I hopped on that train immediately. I'm someone who likes a legging anyway (I wear flared ones even to the office on occasion), but there is something about a simple black capri that keeps me coming back to them. I think it's that I find them as easy to style as jeans, but just a little bit more of a statement.

Whilst some find it tricky to know what shoes to wear with them (we get asked this all the time at Who What Wear), I personally find anything but boots or sneakers look great. Thong sandals, chunky wedges or a simple ballet flat, it goes with any and all summer shoes.

But as much as I love the simple sleekness of the black capri, there are so many new styles and sub-trends emerging for summer 2026. Backed strongly by Iris Law—we've spotted her in all kinds of takes on the 3/4 trouser, from harem-style loose-fit leggings, to the Zara yellow pair she wore in the brand's campaign. So, if you too love the capri as much as me, then look to these 7 trending styles for this summer.

7 Capri Trouser Trends For Summer 2026

1. Polka Dot Pedal Pushers

Style Notes: Polka dots were everywhere last summer, and this year people have found new ways to wear it. Capri pants is one of them. I've noticed mainly slim-fit silhouettes, often reaching just a little lower on the leg towards the ankle, in a more pedal-pusher style. A polka dot capri actually looks quite '50s at first glance, but styled with a top that's reminiscent of the early 2000s era, be it a halterneck, an asymmetric long sleeve or a layered T-shirt and tank top, it feels fresher than any other trouser trend this summer.

2. Camouflage Capris

Style Notes: Camouflage has been a trending print for a little while, but usually on baggy cargo pants. Now we're in the summer months however, I've seen a few capri cargo camo pants (get your mouth around that!) and camo jorts and culottes. They're giving TLC, Destiny's Child and Avril Lavigne—into it!

3. Lace Capri Tights

Style Notes: Okay, so this one might not be for everyone, but mark my words, you're about to see capri tights everywhere in the next year. Especially lace or printed versions. Great when you want to wear a short skirt but the weather isn't quite warm enough, the lace capri is pretty and fun.

4. Technical 3/4 Lengths

Style Notes: I've been practically living in my technical capri pants I bought from Bershka last month, whenever I wear them I feel like Sport Spice. So comfortable and easy to style, they look best with a casual top like a plain white tee, then a fun heel like a thong wedge sandal or mule.

5. Cargo Capris

Style Notes: The next capri trend on my shopping list is the cargo capri. I've seen lots in Urban Outfitters, Pull & Bear and ASOS, and have already noticed a few Gen-Z editors in the office wearing a pair. Although there are lots of options out there, I particularly love the stark crisp white ones, or khaki green—these feel the most nostalgic for 2005.

6. Harem Pants

Style Notes: I really didn't see the return of the harem pant coming, but when Iris Law wore a pair last month, people went crazy for them! The best thing about them is their loose-fit silhouette, offering a more slouchy and comfortable style to the usual capri pant, making them perfect for summer airport travel. Bon voyage!

7. Gingham Prints

Style Notes: A much more classic summer print, the gingham check capri is not a trend that will pass any time soon. Dress down with a pretty boho white blouse, or dress up with a matching top and heel—too cute!