They've come, they've gone, and now they've come again – capris and pedal pushers are 2025's breakout trend. Whether you love the Y2K aesthetic or prefer a more classic ensemble, our favourite Scandinavian style stars are here to give a masterclass in rocking these ankle-baring trousers
Pedal pushers and capris: you either love them or you hate them. Since the 1950s, when they graced the legs of Hollywood legends Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn, these cropped trousers have drifted in and out of fashion. Today, they are once again riding high on the trend wave – to the delight of some, and the horror of others.
With the Y2K revival still firmly holding the internet in a chokehold, capris can sometimes get a bad rap. Reminicent of the ultra-low-rise versions donned by pop icons Christina Aguilera and Britney Spears, they call back to an era where chevron peplum tops, gaudy rhinestone accessories, and duck-lip selfies reigned supreme – a time many would rather leave in their flip phone camera rolls.
But the 2025 capri revival is not simply about nostalgia. Style mavens such as Bella Hadid and Hailey Bieber, along with cohorts of our beloved Scandinavian influencers, have reimagined the pedal pusher for the modern day, elevating it to fresh, fashion-forward heights not seen since the early aughts.
Photo: @annawinck
Photo: @mariejedig
How you embrace the trend ultimately comes down to personal taste. Some may gravitate towards a more relaxed street-style vibe, much like this look from Danish stylist and influencer, Anna Winck, as she channels 90s Jennifer Aniston in Friends. Enschewing classic capris, Winck opts for khaki cargo trousers with a toggle hem (left undone to comfortably accommodate her growing baby bump). Pair them with a striped tank top and colourful flip-flops to perfectly emulate her bold aesthetic. To finalise the look, follow her direction by layering on jewellery and tying on a bandana, adding a playful, retro twist to the ensemble.
A touch of denim offers a more laid-back way to embrace the Y2K trends for those not quite ready to go all in. Paired with a bold, graphic or logo tee and cinched at the waist with a skinny belt, this genre of capris is your ticket straight back to the early 2000s. Finish the look with heeled Mary Janes and a chunky, clashing bag, and you'll blend right in with the crowd circa 2003.
Photo: @biancaingrosso
Photo: @_jeanettemadsen_
Photo: @nnennaechem
For those looking for a more refined and contemporary take, there's the sleek, black capri: a timeless piece that exudes quiet confidence. Look to content creator and businesswoman Bianca Ingrosso for style cues - her preference for a clean, monochromatic palette keeps things effortlessly classic whilst still feeling modern. Pair your capris with a structured polo shirt for a crisp, preppy finish, or embrace a more daring silhouette with a figure-hugging vest that channels the sleek, streamlined appeal of a catsuit. To elevate your ensemble, consider a pair of playful kitten heels or a minimalist mule – these subtle yet sophisticated touches lend just the right amount of elegance without overpowering the look.
When it comes to capris, don't underestimate their versatility. For those slightly cooler days, take a cue from Jeanette Madsen and layer your look with a lightweight V-neck jumper topped with a chunky suede jacket. Opt for a slightly cropped jacket to allow the capris to accentuate the natural curve of your hips and legs, whilst the jacket draws attention to the waist, creating a flattering, hourglass silhouette. For a more classic alternative, a trench coat is always a smart choice. It's the perfect transitional piece, balancing comfort and sophistication, ideal for navigating Scandinavian summer's unpredictable weather.
