Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer.

Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer.

      During a recent scroll through my social media feed, I came across several videos debating the appeal of a once "outdated" fashion trend—pedal pushers. With discussions ranging from “What are pedal pushers?” to “What shoes can you pair with pedal pushers?”, it seems TikTok's trendiest Gen-Z members have rediscovered this long-forgotten style. After wading through what felt like a mountain of misinformation, I decided it was time—being one of Who What Wear UK’s Gen Z fashion editors—to clarify the facts and reintroduce the pedal pusher to a new generation of shoppers who didn’t experience them the first time.

      Also referred to as capri leggings or cropped trousers, pedal pushers are the classic three-quarter-length pants anticipated to dominate the wardrobes of fashion enthusiasts in the summer of 2026. This style first gained popularity in the 1940s, quickly becoming tied to the pop culture of the time, as seen on icons like Audrey Hepburn’s Princess Ann in Roman Holiday or Marilyn Monroe’s iconic summer outfits. Typically made from stretchy cotton or breathable lycra, pedal pushers strike a balance between polished sophistication and laid-back ease, igniting fashion's love for effortless style. By the ‘90s and early 2000s, this silhouette had become a staple in mainstream fashion, showcased by characters such as Jennifer Aniston's Rachel Green in Friends and Lauren Graham's Lorelai Gilmore in Gilmore Girls. Given that fashion in 2020 heavily focused on nostalgia, it’s no surprise that pedal pushers are making a comeback now. Indeed, the beloved capri is back in style, raising the important question of how to wear them.

      Unquestionably one of the easiest summer trouser trends to style, pedal pushers offer an abundance of outfit inspirations. Elsa Hosk's summer looks feature numerous styles, as do those of Hailey Bieber and best friend Kendall Jenner. However, if you're not into celebrity fashion, just browse social media for ample capri outfit ideas to get you through the summer. Below are seven outfits you should definitely check out this summer.

      The 7 Pedal Pusher Outfits You Need to See in Summer 2026:

      1. Shirt + Pedal Pushers + Mules

      Style Notes: With the capri legging's effortlessly chic vibe, it's no wonder that French girls favor pedal pusher outfits in summer. This style is both casual and sophisticated, fitting perfectly with their classic aesthetic. Whether paired with a loose shirt and strappy kitten-heel mules, like Sylvie Mus (above), or a lovely broderie anglaise blouse and ballet flats, the look requires minimal effort but delivers great results.

      Shop the Look:

      - Reformation: Jill Cropped Knit Pant (exactly how I plan to style mine this summer)

      - Astrid & Miyu: Pearl & Crystal Drop Studs (the ideal finishing detail)

      - ASOS DESIGN: Broderie Scrunchie (perfect for managing your hair on humid days)

      2. Broderie Blouse + Pedal Pushers + Mary Janes

      Style Notes: White outfits are nearly a summer essential, but if you're seeking a cooler approach to this hue, consider a pedal pusher ensemble. With a vibe reminiscent of just stepping off a yacht in the south of France, Makenna Alyse (above) enhances her look with black Mary Janes and moody square frame shades for a more fashion-forward feel. Bonus points if you replicate her crisp white Chanel 22.

      Shop the Look:

      - ZARA: Ruffled Lace Trim Blouse (the perfect summer blouse)

      - L'AGENCE: Amaris Pedal Pusher (made from stretchy fabric that moves with you)

      - VICTORIA BECKHAM: Square-Frame Acetate Sunglasses (assuring authenticity)

      3. Tube Top + Pedal Pushers + Flip Flops

      Style Notes: Since pedal pushers peaked in the ‘90s, creating a look that echoes that era is fitting. Amaka Hamelijnck's outfit (above) features a fitted leather jacket and light grey tube top, making it a great reference for inspiration on a cooler summer day.

      Shop the Look:

      - Reiss: Leather Collarless Biker Jacket (the '90s leather style is back)

      - Cotton On: All Day Tube Top (the exact one Amaka wore)

      - MANGO: Linen Capri Trousers (keeping you cool on the hottest days)

      - ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS: Saionara Leather Flip Flops (also available in various shades)

      4. Vest + Pedal Pushers + Ballet Flats

      Style Notes: London summers often have unpredictable weather—hot one moment, chilly the next due to office air conditioning. A pedal pusher and trench coat combination is ideal for this scenario. N

Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer. Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer.

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Gen Z has finally embraced the pedal pusher—here’s how to style them this summer.

Brief and to the point.