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Every few seasons or so, a divisive fashion item reemerges onto the scene, causing many to wonder: “Is this really back in style?” Flip-flops and jelly sandals, thanks to The Row, were one of the first controversial pieces to rebound—and they continue to captivate. On par with fashion’s penchant for taking a look into the past, we’ve circled back to the capri. The knee-length, legging-adjacent style are, once more, a mainstay in celebrity wardrobes, from Hailey Bieber to Bella Hadid. This has, naturally, led us to their nostalgic counterpart. The culotte! Yes, the cropped, wide-lang pant is back and chicer than you might remember.
Vogue’s Favorite Culottes:
Featured in this article
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Examined in a 2019 story written by Vogue’s Laird Borrelli-Persson, the culotte was first worn by aristocrats and military men, cut close to the knees in its nascent form. “Before crossing over to fashion, they were adopted by sportswomen. Early discussions around culottes were really conversations about women’s mobility and role in society.” With the same elegant vibe of a skirt, but the ease of pants, the culotte is a practical yet modest interpretation of femininity. They can be worn casually, with a plain, but perfect white T-shirt, or dressed up with a dainty blouse and the season’s top accessories, like colorful market totes and pendant necklaces.
Ahead, find inspiration on how to bring this early aughts trend into the modern world with five culotte outfits fit for summer.
Something Seersucker
These low-hanging, seersucker shorts from Cos would look good with anything, but we’re partial to them being teamed with playful summer extras, like The Row’s woven bag, and A.Emery’s red leather sandals.
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Keep it Classic
Zara’s high-waisted culottes need little more than Toteme’s butter yellow tank top, and an oversized raffia bag from Muuñ.
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Subtle Color Pops
Neutral girls, rejoice! Wearing color doesn’t mean you have to stray too far from your preferred palette. Use Lemaire’s tie-waist top and Miu Miu’s multicolor woven mini bag to add a soft ray of sunshine.
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A French Twist
A striped T-shirt and khaki-colored culottes have a certain je ne sais quoi when paired together. Add a wedge sandal and a classic basket bag.
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Park Date
Summer means more time spent outdoors—from strolls in the city to park hangouts with friends. Let Uniqlo’s casual culottes serve as the ideal foundational piece. Layer a sporty jacket on top, and fun sandals from Tory Burch.
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