Cropped pants have been taking the fashion scene by storm, but the right look for pants cut above the ankle isn’t always obvious. As with any trend, there’s a specific way to go about styling them. If you’re figuring out how to wear cropped pants, there are a lot of questions. How much ankle should you show? Do cropped pants work in winter? And what are the right shoes to wear?
How to Wear Cropped Pants
Whether you take your fashion cues from local style or international fashion, these pants are a great look for all body types and stay functional through almost all seasons. Cropped pants might go by different names – capris, clam diggers, or ankle pants – but the real trick is learning how to wear them right.
When learning how to style cropped trousers, the biggest challenge is crafting a look that’s not just comfortable, but stylish from head to toe. For the right look for any occasion, it’s important to choose a flattering fit. The tips below can help you determine which fit is right for you.
Length
Cropped pants should cut off between your calf and ankle, but not too close to the widest part of the calf. These pants look best when they emphasize the elegant curve from calf to ankle, so go for a length that’s approximately an inch or two above your ankle bone.
Body proportions
If your legs are shorter, a slim fit can help make your legs look longer. Slim-fit cropped pants should have a narrow fit on the ankle too. High-waisted pants can also create a lengthening effect.
If you have a short torso, mid-rise pants can help balance your leg and waist proportions for a chic look. You can also easily style these pants by rolling the waistband until they fall at the right length.
Wide-legged cropped pants are trending too. Figuring out how to wear cropped trousers can be tough, especially for shorter women. This look can be trendy and chic if you wear shoes that contrast with the wide pant silhouette and emphasize the curve of your ankle.
What Shoes to Wear With Cropped Pants
Shoe selection might be the most important part of putting together your cropped pants look. The wrong pair can make them look clunky, while the right pair can give cropped pants a sleek and sophisticated look. If you’re not sure what shoes to wear with cropped trousers, a good rule to keep in mind is that there should be space between the cut of the pant and the top of your shoe.
Pairing ankle pants with a chunky shoe and sock combination can look messy and make you look shorter. The right shoes for cropped pants will create a long and lean look for your calf and ankle. This is why heels and pointed flats are some of the most popular shoes for cropped trousers. Ballet flats are also a classic look with any cropped pant.
The best options are usually shoes with low-cut vamps. Vamps are the part of the shoe that covers the top of your foot, so the lower the cut, the longer your leg will look. Shoes that match your skin tone can also help create the illusion of a longer leg.
Shoes for cool weather
Ankle boots are a great cold weather pairing with your favorite cropped pants. You can also pick a mid-heel boot that hugs your ankle. If you’re not sure how to pick the right shoes for your favorite cropped pants, keep in mind that chunky soles are more slimming than chunky heels.
Summer standouts
Grab your trendiest statement sneakers and wear low socks to emphasize the slimmest part of your ankle. This combo adds some zip to any casual warm-weather look. Strappy and lace-up sandals are also great choices.
How to Style Cropped Trousers for Work
Cropped pants are making their way onto the office wear scene, and there are many ways to create a great professional look for work!
So, are you wondering how to wear cropped pants to work and be the style icon of your office? It’s all about balance and paying attention to your proportions. If you favor a slimmer look, balance tight pants with a loose blouse. If you prefer a wide cropped dress pants outfit, add a tailored blouse and heels.
If you’re going for a classy professional look, dark-colored ankle pants in black, gray, and other dark shades are a good choice. Add a layer — like a chic sweater, jacket, or blazer — to make capri pants work in any professional setting.
How to Style Cropped Pants for a Night Out
When you’re figuring out what to wear with cropped pants, you have endless options. You can opt for comfy, sexy, edgy, or classic looks. Many love capris for their versatility and their ability to go from work to play in no time. Your secret for styling cropped trousers for a night on the town? Be bold, and play with pairings.
Combine a loose shirt with fitted cropped pants and sparkly flats. Match your favorite capri pants with a cropped top that emphasizes your waist, and add some tall sandals. Cropped jeans and denim pants are also stylish options for casual evenings out.
Brightly colored cropped pants are also a fantastic way to bring a pop of color and pattern to any outfit. Play with textures, patterns, and color. Metallics, silks, or bold patterns – anything goes!
Find Your Perfect Pair with UNIONBAY
UNIONBAY's on-trend designs offer a fantastic range of women's shoes to pair with the season's hottest women’s capris. Whether you need cropped or full-length women's bottoms, we’ve got you covered. Browse our latest fashions or shop our clearance today to figure out how to wear cropped pants that match your unique style. Visit us today!