Ankle-length pants that are loose around the thighs but tight at the calves are called pedal pushers. Pedal pushers are loose and comfortable, and they’re a great alternative to jeans.
Like capris, they offer an easy way to incorporate color and pattern into an outfit without having to wear a dress…. They can be worn with casual or dressy tops, so they’re a good choice for all seasons.
Pedal pushers are a type of casual, semi-fitted pants, which are worn by both men and women…. The leg is slightly tapered and fitted at the ankle, but it is much looser than that of capri pants, a similar style.
Pedal pushers are very versatile…. They are appropriate at the beach, with casual outfits, and even in professional settings, depending on their length and how you style them…. You can wear them as part of a skirt or dress ensemble or pair them with a plain tank to create a chic outfit for work.
Why Do They Call Them Pedal Pushers?
Pedal pushers are a type of women’s trousers or shorts, which look like capri pants but are made with a pedal pusher cut.
The bottom of the trousers has no cuffs, and the pant legs end directly at the ankle bone…. They were first designed and worn by women who rode bikes, although they are now commonly worn as casual wear.
It’s possible that the pants were originally named after the pedals on a bicycle…. However, some people claim that the name is derived from “pedal pushers,” which is a slang term for women who ride bikes.
Pedal pushers are lightweight and made of thin, stretchy materials such as spandex or lycra to allow free movement of the legs while riding a bicycle or skating.
The fabric is usually ribbed to avoid wrinkles when stretched over the knees…. A wide variety of colors and patterns is available, although bright colors such as blue, purple, red, and yellow are the most common.
They can be worn for casual occasions or athletic activities such as going to a park or beach…. They can also be worn for more formal settings such as graduation ceremonies, weddings, and baby showers…. With the right shoes, pedal pushers can become a fashion statement.
Pedal pushers are especially popular among young women in their teens and early twenties as they add flair to casual outfits such as jeans and t-shirts…. Cyclists, provide extra coverage from the sun without sacrificing comfort and flexibility in the legs.
Are Pedal Pushers Flattering?
“Flattering” is subjective…. You may have a body shape that you feel looks best in pedal pushers or a length of the thigh that looks best in pedal pushers.
For example, if you have long legs and a small waist, then pedal pushers will look great on you…. If you have a big bust and no hips, then pedal pushers will not flatter your figure.
Pedal pushers are great for showing off your legs, but if you have short legs or don’t like your legs being exposed, then they’re not very flattering.
Pedal pushers are an attractive look and a great choice for the upcoming summer season…. However, they aren’t always flattering depending on your body type.
If you are self-conscious about your thighs or rear end, then this may not be the best look for you…. If you want to wear pedal pushers, there are a few tricks to make them work for many body types.
When Were Pedal Pushers in Style?
Pedal pushers used to be incredibly popular in the 1950s and 60s…. They were typically worn with sandals or other open-toed shoes, sweater dresses, and loose tank tops…. Today they are still ideal for warm weather because they are breathable and comfortable.
They’ve been making a comeback since the 1990s…. They’re also known as pedal pushers, peg pants, or just pedalers, although they aren’t actually called this very often.
They’re also sometimes referred to as capri pants, which causes confusion when shopping for them.
What to Wear with Pedal Pushers?
Pedal pushers can be worn as dressy or as casual as you want them to be depending on your accessories such as jewelry, belts, or shoes.
- Pedal pushers may be worn with flats, heeled sandals, or high-heeled shoes, depending on the occasion and personal preference.
- They may be matched with a fitted shirt, a sweater, or a light jacket.
- The pants may be worn with a blouse and flats or heels for day or evening wear.
- The pants can also be worn as part of an informal business outfit, with a dressy top such as an embroidered blouse or flowered tunic.
- They can also be paired with trendy tops such as brightly colored T-shirts and tanks, or sheer blouses or chemises.
If you’re wearing your long sleeve t-shirt with a skirt or dress, try tying the sleeves at your waist…. This will mimic the look of a midriff-baring crop top without showing off too much skin…. Plus, if you’re wearing a longer skirt, it’s a great way to keep from overheating in the summer sun.
If you’re going for a more casual look and want to pair your t-shirt with skinny jeans or shorts, try simply rolling up the sleeves for an unexpected twist on an old classic…. Pairing your shirt with a cute pair of shorts can make for a perfect everyday outfit.
When you’re choosing t-shirts in general, remember that they come in many different styles and fabrics—from basic cotton tees to vintage-inspired pieces and graphic muscle tees.
By pairing your long sleeve t-shirt with other pieces in your wardrobe that complement its style, you can create dozens of outfits in virtually no time at all!
What Shoes to Wear with Pedal Pushers?
There are several options you can choose from when it comes to wearing shoes with pedal pushers.
- You can opt for canvas sneakers or white sneakers…. These shoes would look best if you wanted to look trendy, cool, and casual.
- When wearing these shoes, you should stay away from wearing socks because it will make your legs look huge.
- The other option is to wear wedge sandals or platform sandals…. This would be a good option if you want to look feminine and sexy…. These shoes will elongate your legs and make them look attractive and slim…. When wearing these shoes, try not to wear socks as they will also make your legs look chunky.
- Very high heels should also be avoided at all costs as this will only make your legs look much shorter than they really are.
- A good pair of wedge sandals or platform sandals will have the desired effect on your legs when you wear pedal pushers.
When choosing shoes for pedal pushers, keep in mind that you want something that isn’t going to overly detract from the look of your pedal pushers or make them look too serious.
You want your outfit to be fun and colorful, so go for a pair of shoes that will enhance the outfit rather than detract from it…. Because the idea behind pedal pushers is that they are more casual than pants, going for a more casual type of shoe can be a good idea.
What Length Are Pedal Pushers?
Most women’s pedal pushers fall between the mid-calf and ankle in length…. The style is available in a variety of lengths and fabrics, from stretch jerseys to more formal silk blends.
A lot depends on personal taste: some women prefer long pedal pushers that extend to their ankles while others may prefer ones that end mid-calf.
- The Long Length: Long pedal pushers are ideal if you have long legs or if you prefer the more casual look of pants instead of skirts…. They can be paired with sneakers and a T-shirt for an easy day look or with heels and a silk blouse for a more formal look.
- The Mid-Calf Length: The mid-calf length will show off your legs but won’t be as long as the long pedal pushers…. This length fits better under dresses or skirts, but it also looks good with sandals or heels.
- The Capri Length: If you want to show off your legs without wearing shorts, Capri pedal pushers are for you!
Are Pedal Pushers and Capris the Same?
If you’re confused about the difference between pedal pushers and capris, you’re not alone…. They are two different items of clothing, but both are very popular in their own right.
Over the years, many women have worn both pedal pushers and capris fashion items…. But what makes a pair of pants a Capri, and what makes a pair a pedal pusher?
Pedal pushers are a popular summertime staple for many women…. They can be dressed up or down, and work with various tops…. Capris, on the other hand, are more casual and look best with a T-shirt and sandals or flip-flops.
What Is the Difference Between Capri Pants and Pedal Pushers?
Pedal pushers and Capris are two different types of casual pants…. Both of these pants can be worn with a variety of tops and shoes, giving you many options…. One consideration when choosing pedal pushers or Capris is the type of hem you prefer.
Trouser length
Pedal pushers are pegged at the ankle, while Capris have a straight leg that ends around mid-calf…. This can be an important consideration for those who hike or engage in other activities that require easy movement.
The longer length of the Capris may provide a bit more coverage and protection from the elements, such as dirt or debris kicked up by the wind.
Material
Both pedal pushers and Capris can be made from cotton, linen, denim, or polyester blends…. They usually come in solid colors or small stripes.
Easy-care fabrics will help these pants maintain their appearance over time, while those made from more expensive materials such as silk will require special care to avoid snags and stains.
Waistband and hemline
Capris are more form-fitting than pedal pushers because they have elasticized waistbands and hems that sit below the hips; pedal pushers can have elasticized waistbands too but offer more flexibility in terms of fit.
In summary, pedal pushers are especially popular with cyclists because they allow for freedom of movement while riding…. Because of this, they’ve gained a reputation as bike shorts, despite not being designed specifically for use on bicycles.
Some cyclists wear them under regular pants while riding, while others opt for sports-specific cycling pants instead.
These tight-fitting trousers are loose enough around the ankle so as not to impede movement during sports or physical activity but also tight enough at the top to be fashionable…. They have a wide leg opening and lack pleats or cuffs, unlike many other types of khaki pants (which are part of the suit pant category).
Many people wear them as casual clothing because they offer a unique style that can’t be duplicated by normal trousers or shorts…. They can be worn with a variety of different tops.
You may also be interested in… What to Wear with Skorts? and What to Wear with Overalls?
