Capri pants have sparked controversy as a retro trend that made a comeback in 2018. Despite the mixed reviews, they can be a great option for casual, everyday wear. With a little creativity, you can elevate a simple Capri pant to suit your style and occasion. From lounging around on a day off to dressing down for work, the versatility of Capri pants is undeniable.
However, when it comes to fashion choices for seniors, the options are limited, leaving many feeling forced to opt for youthful-inspired styles that may not accurately reflect their age. As we explore ways to style Capri pants, we’ll also touch on the challenges faced by seniors in finding fashion inspiration that suits their generation.
What to Wear With Capri Pants in Your Fifties?
While Capris may seem like a straightforward piece of clothing, there’s more to styling them than meets the eye. The perfect combination of fit, length, and color is crucial for a flattering look. Wide-legged Capris, in particular, can be tricky – if not styled correctly, they can make you appear boxy, shorter, and less toned. It’s all about finding the right balance. When it comes to choosing the right length, it’s essential to consider what part of your leg you want to highlight.
Showing off more calf means sacrificing some height, so it’s vital to balance this out with the right footwear – think wedges or heels instead of flip-flops and flats. And remember, try before you buy is always the best policy when it comes to Capris.
↓ 18. Crop Tops
While some may argue that Crop Tops are off-limits after age 50, those who dare to defy conventional fashion wisdom can create stylish and casual outfits. The key is to balance the boldness of the top with the right bottoms. Capri Pants, in particular, offer a great contrast when paired with Crop Tops. However, it’s essential to strike a balance between flaunting one’s abs and avoiding an overly petite appearance.
A hint of torso exposure can be a great way to wear them without looking too youthful. For inspiration, check out our collection of outfit ideas for women over 50 here: [link]
↓ 17. Cardigan
When it comes to styling Capri Pants for outdoor wear, comfort can often take precedence over fashion sense. But with the right accessories, you can easily elevate your look without sacrificing practicality. Cardigans are a great way to add a stylish touch to your outfit while keeping you warm and cozy. Try pairing your Capris with a floral, block-colored or tassel-embellished cardigan for a chic and outdoorsy vibe.
For a particularly effective example of how this can be achieved, look no further than Beth Djalali’s styling of a white cardigan over striped track pants. The monochromatic color scheme creates a safe and stylish choice that’s perfect for a day spent exploring the great outdoors.
↓ 16. Plaid Shirt
There’s something undeniably appealing about slipping on a plaid shirt over cropped pants for a laid-back day in or out. The timeless appeal of plaid shirts lies not only in their classic design, but also in the versatility they offer when it comes to styling. From pairing them with T-shirts and tanks for a casual look to using them as a belt – the possibilities are truly endless, making plaid shirts a staple in many people’s wardrobes.
↓ 15. All Black
Achieving an all-black ensemble is often misconceived as a challenging feat, but in reality, it’s surprisingly effortless. The versatility of black as a color allows it to effortlessly command attention and make the wearer appear more streamlined than their actual physique. For those intimidated by the prospect of wearing an all-black look, incorporating subtle pops of color through accessories can be a game-changer.
A pair of vibrant heels or a brightly colored handbag can add just the right amount of visual interest to elevate the overall aesthetic.
↓ 14. Denim on Denim
A classic minimalist approach to the Denim on Denim trend can yield impressive results. One way to achieve this is by combining different washes of denim that harmonize with each other. A neutral color piece is crucial, allowing the denim to take center stage. The chic look sported by Sarah Jane Adams has won us over. The statement sleeves falling just above her elbow are beautifully highlighted when paired with a basic sleeveless denim top.
The folded hem on the Capri Pants cleverly draws attention to the legs, making it perfect for a casual day out. When completed with sneakers, the overall look is effortlessly stylish.
↓ 13. Printed Capris
Floral and printed patterns on pants offer a fresh take on fashion that we adore. They’re surprisingly easy to style with solid colors like pastels and neutrals. Floral designs are perfect for evoking a spring or summer vibe, while patterns can be dressed up or down to suit any time of year. Printed capris can be paired with T-shirts for a casual look or button-down shirts for a more formal occasion.
↓ 12. Striped Pants
Strategic fashion choices can elevate the impact of Capris, and one such approach is incorporating Stripes. The benefit of this combination becomes even more pronounced when considering the potential drawbacks of cropped pants – namely, the visual effect of reduced height. However, cleverly employed vertical stripes can create an optical illusion that makes the wearer appear taller.
Furthermore, pairing Stripes with bold accents like Electric Blue Block heels can add a striking touch to the overall look.
↓ 11. Coat and Capris
When you think about combining bold patterns and bright colors with cold weather, it may seem like an unlikely duo. However, some individuals have mastered the art of winter fashion and Suzi from Alternative Aging is a perfect example. Her outfit featuring a striking red coat over patterned bottoms is a testament to her fearless approach to fashion. The key to pulling off such a look lies in the confident attitude and clever accessorizing that brings the entire ensemble together.
By embracing bold choices and not being afraid to take risks, Suzi turns what could be a fashion faux pas into a stunning success.
↓ 10. Capri Track Pants
While it may seem challenging to maintain a stylish appearance while running errands or hitting the gym, we’ve discovered a practical solution. The latest trend in fashion is Track Pant Capris, which have transformed the traditional Capri style from printed or denim pants to a fresh and exciting look. Pairing these capris with T-shirts is effortless, as plain or graphic designs can create a comfortable and stylish ensemble.
For inspiration, consider Sarah Jane Adams’ outfit, featuring an Adidas track suit with a cropped hem that allows for ample leg movement. This versatile look is perfectly complemented by basic white sneakers and black sunglasses.
↓ 9. Pastels
The pastel trend that dominated 2018’s fashion scene has been a breath of fresh air, with mint greens, powdery pinks, and lavender hues taking center stage. These calming colors can be effortlessly paired with neutral shades like whites and greys to create a visually appealing look. Interestingly, blues and pinks are particularly well-suited for older individuals. Beth’s personal take on the trend is noteworthy, as her pastel blue tank top harmonizes beautifully with her printed capri pants.
The splash of yellow adds just the right touch of vibrancy to her relaxed ensemble.
↓ 8. Camouflage
Timeless fashion trends like camouflage have stood the test of time, evolving through rebranding and reimagination. This classic print has been reinvented in various ways, transcending seasons to become a wardrobe staple. From casual shirts and jackets to pants and accessories like hats, camouflage is an essential element for days when you want to channel a retro vibe, à la the 1990s. The simplicity of this look is elevated by the bold yellow bottom and bag, creating a striking contrast.
While camouflage can be paired with various colors depending on personal style, its versatility lies in its ability to blend seamlessly with different hues, making it a wardrobe necessity for effortless, laid-back looks.
↓ 7. White on White
White is a versatile neutral shade that can be effortlessly styled in various ways. One effective approach is to mix and match pieces of the same hue, creating a harmonious ensemble that’s easy on the eyes. The key to pulling this off is to pair similar shades that complement each other well. By doing so, you’ll create a chic look that’s elevated with a pop of color here and there.
Beth perfectly embodies this style by pairing a striped shirt over basic white pants, finishing the look with black heels and a handbag. Her understated yet polished approach is a testament to the power of simplicity in fashion.
↓ 6. Long Shirts
Long shirts paired with capris are a match made in heaven, particularly when it comes to complimenting one’s figure. This style has its roots in South Asian culture, where it was once a staple, but has since gained popularity worldwide. Beth’s effortless chic is a great example of this trend in action – her black long shirt is elevated by the perfect accessories, including jewels that add a touch of glamour to her overall look.
The length and flow of the shirt, combined with the capris, create a striking visual effect that accentuates her slender figure, making it a must-try combination for anyone looking to make a stylish statement.
↓ 5. Wide Capri Pants
Capri pants are often characterized by their fitted silhouette and knee-length design, but some styles have bucked this trend in favor of a wider leg. When pairing wide-legged Capris with formal attire, consider tucking in a blouse or opting for a slim-fit shirt to create a polished look. Heels can also elevate the overall aesthetic, adding a touch of sophistication to your outfit.
A harmonious color combination like purple and beige is particularly appealing when paired with a pop of bright yellow, such as a statement handbag. For more inspiration, check out our curated list of 30 Best Summer Travelling Outfits for Women Over 50.
↓ 4. Floral Shirt
Floral prints are a timeless classic that can be reimagined in countless ways, but few combinations are as iconic as floral shirts paired with denim pants. A slim-fit Capri pant is an excellent addition to any wardrobe, offering versatility and comfort for everyday wear. Whether you’re strolling through the park or lounging around on a lazy Sunday, this summer staple ensures you look great while staying comfortable.
For Suzi, adding glittery Converse shoes and her signature headgear takes the outfit from classic to cool, proving that fashion has no age limit – it’s all about confidence and personal style.
↓ 3. Sunshine Yellow
Yellow, an eternal favorite, dominated Fall/Winter 2018 trends. Its inclusion in our outfit selection was inevitable. This vibrant hue can be used to infuse a sense of brightness into your everyday attire. A striped bright yellow top paired with white pants is a fantastic interpretation of the fashion trend. When tucked into the pant, it creates a flattering silhouette.
The bold upper body-focused look that results from pairing this top with white pants makes it easy to divert attention away from the legs when desired.
↓ 2. Sweatshirts
The iconic plaid shirts have long been a fashion favorite, but it appears checked pants are about to give them a run for their money. This street-style-perfect look is so on-trend that we can’t help but want to rush out and snag the latest pairs. One of the key components of this ensemble is the effortless pairing of light-hued pants with a vibrant sweatshirt – a combination that effortlessly balances comfort and style. The cherry on top?
A stylish red Gucci bag that earns extra points from us for its chic touch.
↓ 1. Buttoned Hems
Capri pants have evolved beyond their humble beginnings as simple printed trousers. Today, they’re often adorned with intricate embroideries, sequins, and other embellishments. A perfect example is this set of white Capri pants featuring buttoned hems. When paired with a vibrant, striped cardigan, the outfit is ideal for a summer day out with friends. The wide-legged Capris are stylish on their own, while the buttons add a touch of glamour to the overall look.
