Capri pants make a comeback

Capri pants, the calf-length trousers that have always sparked debate, are experiencing a resurgence in popularity this summer.

Once considered a fashion faux pas in the 2000s, capri pants – a cross between leggings and Bermuda shorts – are trending this year. According to Vogue, the design's silhouette has generated controversy both in the past and present. Many find them dated and unflattering, making legs appear shorter. However, others praise their practicality, style, and slimming effect.

According to 1stdibs, capri pants were created by German designer Sonja de Lennart. During World War II, de Lennart visited the island of Capri in the Bay of Naples, southern Italy. While strolling on the beach, her trousers got wet, leading her to realize they needed to be shorter and tighter.

In 1948, while evacuated with her family to Bavaria, de Lennart debuted her calf-length trousers. She named them "capri" to commemorate the island, a symbol of peace and freedom. "Capri" was also the name of her first collection, launched in 1945 when she began designing clothes to support her family.

Vogue notes that capri pants were revolutionary at a time when women primarily wore skirts. The design reflected a societal shift towards accepting trousers as women's fashion. During the 1950s, capri pants became a sensation, embraced by celebrities like Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, Ingrid Bergman, Brigitte Bardot, and Elizabeth Taylor.

This year, celebrities like Emily Ratajkowski, Bella Hadid, and Zoe Kravitz are among those reviving the trend. In mid-July, Ratajkowski was spotted in New York City wearing a slogan tee, sunglasses, heels, and black capri pants, embodying Y2K style. Photo: Backgrid

Hailey Bieber opted for a more streamlined look, pairing a fitted tank top with polka-dot capri pants. Photo: GC Images

This summer, many brands, both large and small, have reimagined capri pants in various fabrics like stretch cotton, lace, and khaki, featuring prints such as butterflies, polka dots, and checks. However, solid colors remain the most popular choice for their versatility.

Beyond celebrities, capri pants have gained traction among fashion enthusiasts. For months, photos of outfits featuring these trousers have proliferated on social media. The average price for a pair of capri pants ranges from 200,000 to 500,000 Vietnamese dong (VND), making them accessible to most people.