How to Wear Capris as a Tall Person, Because, Yes, They’re Back in Style

When it comes to any trend, fit is the key to both looking and feeling great. As Jordan tells me, for tall gals this likely means seeking out brands that specifically sell tall sizes. And if you’re willing to splurge, designer pants typically run long. “Capris are meant to flatter, not frustrate,” adds Baudino. “You want them to hug your shape without squeezing, clean, tailored, and effortless. The right fit will make you feel polished, not uncomfortable.”

Using their fit advice, I found great tall-length options at Abercrombie & Fitch, Gap and Old Navy, ranging from curve-hugging leggings to structured trousers, with which to attempt my styling experiment. I preferred the length of the Gap pair best, so started by styling them in what seemed the most obvious way to me: country club chic.

When it comes to making capri pants work for your frame, Baudino reminds me, “It’s all about balance and owning your look.” And Jordan agrees. “Layering and balancing proportions makes you appear intentional and mature.” What does that look like in practice? “Style tight capri pants with a loose top or with a tighter basic and loose layer, like a denim shirt or Oxford. Style loose capris with a tight basic tucked in,” says Jordan.

And I have to agree—wearing my Old Navy capri pants with a white tank and denim button-up felt cool, easy and flattering. Especially when paired with sleek shoes like ballet flats or minimalist sandals.

Balance isn’t just about proportions, it can also apply to aesthetics. For instance, Baudino loves mixing causal capris with more tailored pieces to elevate the look as a whole. “The key is pairing it with structure: a blazer, a tucked-in top, or a great belt to ground the look. Don’t shy away from statement pieces! just style them with confidence.”

This was a combination I never would have come up with on my own. But it ended up feeling quite fun. I liked the vibes of “casual Friday at the office” and know there is definitely more to explore with this twist on the idea of “balance.”

Both Baudino and Jordan said their go-to carpi pants outfits include beloved statement jewelry, regardless of what else you’ve got going on. “Always stop and accessorize, it's the frosting on the cake!” says Jordan. Baudino adds, “I love a fun pop of color. It brings personality to an outfit and instantly makes it feel intentional.” Adding your favorite stand-out accessories makes any outfit feel true to you and less like you’re trying to copy someone else. It’s that “je ne sais quoi” that transforms any outfit from fine to fabulous.

And don’t forget the most important styling tip of all: you wear the pants, the pants don’t wear you. “Fashion is supposed to work for you, not make you feel small, awkward, or unsure,” says Baundino. “When you dress in a way that honors your body and your confidence, it shows. You’re not too tall, too bold, or too anything. You’re just right. And capris? They’re just another tool in your style toolkit! make them yours!”

For my final capri pants outfit I decided to really go for the fun and do something I’d want to wear out with friends. A black strapless top helped give the illusion of one long silhouette, despite the cropped hems and lack of sleeves. Plus, it provided me with the perfect base to showcase some of my current favorite party accessories, like a beaded handbag, bright red kitten heels and champagne bottle earrings. The result? A look that made me feel confident and ready to hit the town, something I truly doubted capri pants could ever do for me.