I Don't Hate Capri Trousers, But If You Want to Look Chic in 2026, Try These 5 Alternatives
With summer just around the corner, our hemlines are getting shorter, and the fabric getting lighter. But if you don't want to rely on capris for the next six months, you've come to the right place.
With a predicted heatwave on the horizon, often, our first thought is, "How can I wear as little as possible but still look chic?" It's an easy question to answer, in my experience. Yes, capri trousers feel like the obvious solution; not only are they currently having a moment, but they are also perfect for wearing with a barely there sandal. However, before you panic-buy a pair of three-quarter lengths, I would be remiss not to remind you of the other warm-weather options on the table.
As a seasoned fashion editor (and a big fan of summer styling), there are a few pieces that are always in my warm-weather wardrobe. First up, a sunny staple—shorts. And I don't just mean your average denim cutoffs; 2026 has treated us to a wealth of shorts trends already, and the temperatures haven't even surpassed 24°C yet. Then there are, of course, skirts. Mini, midi, maxi—there is a skirt for every mood, and if you're not big on shorts, skirts are the best way to feel easy and breezy on hotter days without having to step into the confines of jeans. And last, but of course not least, there are plenty of cool, breathable trousers you could wear this summer without covering up entirely (read: linen and silk).
So, should you be wondering what to wear this summer instead of capri trousers, keep scrolling for these fashion-editor-approved alternatives. I promise you: they are equally cool (in every sense of the word).
What to Wear Instead of Capri Trousers in 2026
1. Silk Trousers
Style Notes: In case you missed it, elegant satin trousers have risen in popularity over the last 6 months, a hangover from the luxurious fabrics we wore throughout the Christmas party period. Now, instead of pairing your silky trousers with sequins and camisoles, some of the best spring outfits are being built around light cardigans and wide-leg satin, often paired with a flip flop and a basket bag.
Shop Silk Trousers:
A top pick for those who prefer a straight leg over wide.
Such a fun pop of colour for summer.
A premium bestseller, every, Single. Summer.
I'd wear these with a white tank and black flip flops too.
These are sold out everywhere, and I've just found the last place they're in stock.
2. Long Shorts
Style Notes: Let's get to the long and short of it—whether you call them Bermudas, culottes, long shorts or even a 'jort' in their denim iteration, tailored shorts that fall just below the knee are still a top pick for stylish dressers this summer.Dressier than cut offs, but more casual than full trousers, if its warm outside but you still want to dress smart enough for the office too, a pair of long shorts meets the smart-casual dress code to perfectly.
Shop Long Shorts:
These have been a popular choice, and added to baskets over a 100 times in the last few days.
No one does minimalism quite like The Row.
I'm a sucker for a good pair of jorts in the right wash.
So good with an oversized shirt loosely tucked in.
An easy pull-on-and-go-pair in light linen.
3. Knee Skirts
Style Notes: If I had to choose only one skirt trend as a key piece for SS'26, it would have to be the knee length skirt. We've seen our fair share of minis, calf length midis and ankle-grazing maxis, but there's something wholly unexpected about the sudden influx of demure knee-length skirts that makes the look feel fresh. When teamed with pointed slingbacks and a simple top (I love Sylvie's choice of tank top [pictured above]), the effect is a high/low take on the 'ladylike' dressing as seen on the runways of Prada, Miu Miu and Ferragamo.
Shop Knee Skirts:
This colour combination feels so 90's coded, in the very best way.
This is spring in a skirt.
And if you're a fan of prints, this will make you so happy.
This will be a timeless classic you can pull out every year.
4. Silk Shorts
Style Notes: The little sister of the silk trouser trend, silk shorts are also having a moment too. While wide-leg, satin trousers feel grown-up and elegant, silk shorts are equally chic but with a more playful attitude. You'll find Gen Z styling theirs with fun tees and statement shoes, while millennials tend to lean towards cashmere cardigans and simple flip flops.
Shop Silk Shorts:
I've had my eye on these for a long time, the only decision I have to make is which of the five colours to choose from.
This is a cute outfit for summer weekends.
How to make underwear feel like outdoor wear.
These also come in smoke grey and baby blue too.
5. Linen Trousers
Style Notes: An oldie, but a goodie, linen trousers are the forever piece that I rely on every summer without fail. Not only do they go with just about everything, but their temperature-regulating properties are unmatched too. On the days that are so warm you don't want to think about styling up on outfit, roll out of bed and reach for a pair of simple linen trousers and the nearest shirt or blouse, its a tried and tested formula that will always look polished.
Shop Linen Trousers:
I always recommend H&M for a reliable and affordable pair.
I'm tempted to pick these up in beige.
Yes, you can wear black in summer too, and these are conclusive proof.
Such a fun full co-ord for summer holidays.
Perfect for throwing on with a white or black tee and sandals.
