I never expected denim capris to return, but Alexa Chung has just shown me otherwise in Paris.

      Another day, another successful showcase of fashion emerging from the streets of Paris Fashion Week. Although the runways have certainly provided an abundance of noteworthy styles this season—from Schiaparelli’s sheer slips adorned with feathers, Jonathan Anderson’s micro bubble skirts and fitted bar jackets for his debut Dior collection, to the return of the 1957 sack dress at Pierpaolo Piccioli’s Balenciaga—the true treasures can often be found within the city’s arrondissements. This was exemplified by none other than Alexa Chung on Sunday evening. The British style icon went to Chloé’s spring/summer 2026 show dressed in a trend beloved by millennials that I never thought would resurface.

      While everyone was busy analyzing Chemena Kamali’s latest bohemian collection, I found myself captivated by Alexa's denim capri pants. As a fan of England’s noughties fashion scene, it’s no surprise to see her reviving this silhouette, despite my belief that it was destined to remain in the early 2000s.

      As someone who thinks that pedal pushers aren't as controversial as they are often perceived, yet who struggles with denim at the best of times, I felt conflicted about this structured style making a comeback. I adored her peplum-like grey blazer, the cream satin blouse peeking out from beneath the lapels, the chunky belt cinched at her waist, and her pointed-toe, T-bar kitten heels. But slim-cut denim trousers that hit at the knee? Are we truly ready to go back there?

      Then I recalled who I was discussing. This is the ultimate It girl; the same person who inspired that unforgettable note written on a cocktail bar napkin and who brought Mary Janes and Peter Pan collars into the mainstream. If Alexa aims to revive one of the more divisive looks of the past century, the rest of us should really just take notes—especially since she completed her outfit with a Chloé Paddington bag. That’s exactly what I did, and upon further investigation, I discovered that similar outfits had been circulating among Parisian fashion influencers on social media.

      However, if you were to ask Alexa, she would say that her look isn’t distinctly Parisian but more pirate-inspired. Indeed, she shared it on her Instagram with the caption, "Swashing, buckling etc. The Chloé show was very gorgeous. 🪝[SIC]."

      Though she may have presented the most sophisticated take I've seen, she isn’t the only one channeling this nautical vibe. Alaïa’s balloon trousers and Alexander McQueen’s hussar jackets also capture this nautical essence, as do the slouch boots endorsed by Kate Moss that are gradually making a return. Nevertheless, if you seek a more refined approach to experimenting with this motif, Alexa’s interpretation is certainly one to consider.

      So whether you’re ready for it or not, capri jeans and sleek denim are definitely on the rise. If you can’t resist the trend, why not embrace it and shop for pieces inspired by Alexa's look (her entire outfit hails from Chloé's Resort 2026 collection, launching early next year), along with some chic cropped trouser options below.

      Shop Alexa Chung's Capri Jeans Outfit:

      In place of Chung's peplum blazer, this tapered coat features a built-in hourglass shape with a cinched waist and angular double-breasted design. Crafted from a luxurious wool-silk blend and named after a renowned musician, this style reinvents Savile Row tailoring.

      MANGO

      Satin Finish Flowing Shirt

      JACQUEMUS

      Capri De-Nîmes Denim Shorts

      Need more evidence that capri jeans are as common in France as a red lip? This endorsement from esteemed French fashion brand Jacquemus serves as proof.

      CHLOÉ

      Paddington Leather Tote

      Originally introduced at the spring/summer 2005 show by Phoebe Philo and relaunched two decades later for the autumn/winter 2025 collection by Chemena Kamali, this bag with its oversized lock and east-west shape is set to become ubiquitous.

      JIL SANDER

      Leather Slingback Sandals

      When discussing the best minimalist brands, I always mention the Italian label Jil Sander. While it may be slightly less known compared to the likes of Toteme, The Row, or Khaite, it remains luxurious and understated.

      Shop More Capri Jeans:

      H&M

      Skinny High Capri Jeans

      A great introductory pair for those hesitant to embrace the trend. This style is available in a wide range of sizes.

      Curve Love Mid Rise Capri Jean

      Abercrombie's denim is among the most size-inclusive on the high street, available in three colors, three leg lengths, and eleven sizes!

      Sportmax

      Schermo Low-Rise Cropped Bootcut Jeans

      Sportmax is an incredibly underrated Italian label loved by celebrities like Zendaya and Hailey Bieber.