Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots.

Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots.

      Gen Z Says is a bimonthly column that showcases the latest fashion and beauty trends as interpreted by Who What Wear's own Gen Z editors. Expect insights on fresh tastemakers, rising designers, and the shopping and style preferences directly from the generation setting the trends. While last summer was dominated by capri pants, this season is turning out to be defined by something much more unexpected: pantaloons. Indeed, pantaloons—the light, gathered, somewhat theatrical trousers that seem to have been taken from a Victorian closet, a ballet practice session, and a Hamilton-themed Pinterest board all at once. This silhouette has been quietly gaining popularity among fashion enthusiasts for months, and it has now exploded in popularity within the Gen Z community. Suddenly, the trendiest individuals under 30 are styling billowy pantaloons with everything from delicate ballet flats to relaxed motorcycle boots, making a compelling argument for this look as summer's most intriguing alternative pant.

      Fashion currently shows a marked disinterest in conventional notions of "flattering," which is precisely why pantaloons are so appealing. The prevailing trend leans away from sleek minimalism and formulas favored by algorithms. It's all about expression instead. The most fashionable Gen Z individuals are no longer creating outfits based on a singular aesthetic—they're freely mixing influences, styles, and vibes. One day it might be bloomers paired with a tongue-in-cheek baby tee and vintage sneakers; the next, a sheer lace camisole, an oversized leather jacket, and dramatically gathered pantaloons create a look that feels part romantic period drama and part downtown indie chic.

      Much like several defining trends of this summer that embrace playfulness and whimsy, the charm of pantaloons lies in their contrast. They are striking yet comfortable, nostalgic yet refreshingly modern. In a season marked by a celebration of individuality rather than perfection, they perfectly embody the unexpected pieces that fashion aficionados are eagerly reaching for. Apologies to capris—there's a new summer pant trend taking over the conversation. Below are some of the best pantaloons to consider purchasing, which Gen Z will likely sell out by July 1.

      **On the Runway**

      (Image credit: Launchmetrics/Spotlight; Pictured: Selkie spring/summer 2026)

      (Image credit: Launchmetrics/Spotlight; Pictured: Balenciaga spring/summer 2026)

      (Image credit: Launchmetrics/Spotlight; Pictured: Chloé spring/summer 2025)

      **From the Gen Z Style Set**

      **Shop the Pantaloon Trend**

      - Chan Luu Million Pleats Fisherman Shorts Natural

      - Ciao Lucia Pauli Silk Embroidered Pants

      - Selkie The California Bloomer

      - Free People Forever Young Bloomer Pants

      - Chan Luu Million Pleats Fisherman Shorts Black

      - Motel Basma Bloomer Pants

      - Cou Cou Intimates The Pantaloon

      - Free People Calle Balloon Crop Pull-On Pants

      - Miguelina Nell Embroidered Silk-Blend Wide-Leg Pants

      - Chloé Lace-Trimmed Silk Pongé Cropped Pants

      - Free People Forever Young Bloomer Pants

      - Motel Rocks Basma Bloomer Trouser in Rayon White

      - Zara Striped Lace Capri Pants

      - Liberowe Arden Balloon Trousers White

      - Staud Renzo Cropped Scalloped Cotton-Voile Flared Pants

      - Zara Ruffled Embroidered Beaded Pants

      - Cou Cou Intimates The Pantaloon

      - L'Academie By Marianna Idella Pant

      - Saint Laurent Broderie Anglaise Ruffle Straight-Leg Crop Pants

Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots. Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots.

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Apologies, Capris—Trendsetting under-30s are sporting this summer's pant style with ballet flats and boots.

This summer, Gen Z is embracing a polarizing pant trend favored by both Balenciaga and Chloé, whether paired with motorcycle boots or ballet flats.