Chico’s Try-On: Summer Outfits in Linen, Cotton, and Easy Pull-On Pants
I stopped by two different Chico’s stores to see what’s new, and I’m glad I did because the selection was surprisingly different in each one. I saw lots of easy summer pieces, especially linen and cotton, with a few gauze items mixed in. That’s exactly the kind of fabric direction I want once the weather starts heating up.
I’m 5’4″ with broad shoulders and very few curves. You can check out my other try-ons here.
I’m going to predict that these Emma Slim Capri Pants fly out the door this season. I remember wearing pants this short, or shorts this long, when I was a girl, and I bet many of you do too.
They hit just below the knee, which I find much more flattering than a mid-calf crop. Mid-calf pants can chop the leg in a very efficient and unhelpful way. These have a zip fly and belt loops, so they feel more like a real pair of pants than a pull-on crop.
The Zenergy Gauze Top has a relaxed fit with a cotton gauze front and soft French terry back. The dolman sleeves and boat neckline give it an easy shape, and the ribbed trim keeps it from looking too loose.
Chico’s has several pedal pusher styles this season
This Cropped Denim Trucker Jacket has plenty of stretch, and the looser bottom band gives it a more current shape than a traditional denim jacket. I like it over a simple tank because it adds structure without feeling stiff.
I paired it with this High Neck Ribbed Tank in a bright red. It’s 95% cotton with 5% spandex, so it’ll keep its shape without being too snug on the torso. This is a great layering piece and comes in 12 colors.
These Brigitte Crop Flares are a good petite option because the flare is smaller and the length is practical. A big flare can swallow a shorter leg quickly, but this one felt more balanced. They’re a pull-on style with lots of stretch and slimming panels that help hold things in place.
This Sea Island Maxi Skirt is a real winner. I’ve tried it on before, and if I didn’t already own a similar skirt, I’d buy it. The pleating gives it movement, and it’s the kind of skirt that would pack well and still look decent at dinner. It has a slightly A-line shape and an elastic smocking waistband. I’m wearing a regular length, which is 37,” and the petite is 34″.
I paired it with this No Iron Stretch Jacquard Stars Shirt in navy and white. These shirts are great if you like a crisp look but have no interest in ironing. The straight shape, point collar, and 3/4 sleeves make it easy to wear tucked, untucked, or layered under a jacket.
This Slub Knit Blazer has the shape of a blazer with the softer feel of a knit cardigan. It’s made from a lightweight cotton-modal blend, with a classic fit, long sleeves, lapels, and front pockets.
Under the jacket, I’m wearing this Cotton Slub Tee, which has a classic fit, elbow sleeves, and angled shell-style buttons at the side seams. It’s soft, breathable, and easy to wear on its own or layered under a jacket. It comes in eight colors this season.
These Brigitte Slim Pull-On Ankle Pants have a straight leg with a pull-on elastic waist and a small slit at the hem. It’s hard to see, but the fabric is denim-inspired yet soft and stretchy, with enough recovery to hold its shape during the day. They also have a smoothing panel around the waist, angled front welt pockets, and faux back welt pockets for a cleaner look.
This was one of the more casual outfits, but it still looked pulled together. The Striped Zenergy Jacket has a hood, snap pockets, and roll-tab sleeves, so it reads relaxed without feeling like workout wear. Under it, I am wearing the same Gauze Top as the first outfit.
I have these pants in white and love them. TheEmme Slim Pants are soft and stretchy, with a fly front, belt loops, and pockets, which makes them look more finished. These are perfect for when you want comfort but don’t want to look like you’re wearing sweatpants.
This No Iron Stretch Gingham Shirt is classic and adds a fresh vibe to anything you pair it with. It has 3/4 sleeves, a point collar, and a back pleat for a little extra ease through the shoulders. The stretch makes it so comfy to wear, and the no-iron fabric keeps it looking crisp,
The Scalloped Brigitte Pants are what make the outfit more fun. I think sandals would look nicer than my big sneakers…but that’s what I wore into the store. The eyelet detailing around the hem gives these pants a playful and feminine vibe. They’re pull-on, have angled pockets, and include a smoothing front panel, which is always appreciated. These also come in red!
This Zenergy Gauze Top showed up again because it’s exactly the kind of easy summer piece Chico’s does well.
This time I paired it with these Brigitte Twill Neutral Stripe Crops. They’re also a pull-on style with a slim leg and a small slit at the hem. The low contrast stripe would pair well with lots of colors.
What’s your verdict on pedal pushers? Do you still wear crops that stop mid calf?
I think these styles look nice and current on you, but on me most of them would be frumpy! Plus size is a different ballgame. I really liked the gauze top- it’s hard to find light airy tops that still cover my upper arms- but when I went to the site it was clear that the band at the bottom, which falls very nicely on your slim hips, would cut me off in an unflattering way. And I don’t like pedal pushers on my legs, especially since I do not tan- ankle pants and kick flares have been my go-to.
I have some Zenergy ankle length pants that snap up to capri or pedal pusher length. I don’t know the difference but I love these pants. They’re so light weight and comfortable, not slim, not wide. They are lasting for several years now and I wear them a lot. Chico’s are sometimes hit or mostly miss, but these are a hit. I have to go back and check out these finds.
I like that Striped Zenergy Jacket on you
It’s got a bit more pizzaz than the other tops
Crops that stop mid-calf? I do not like them, Sam I am! Even though I’m tall, I find them so matronly and unflattering on most everyone – including me. I do like those pedal pushers – fond memories of wearing them all the time as a kid!
I feel the same way
No only no, but hell NO. Everything old does not need to be new again. Love the star shirt and navy skirt. And, look great on you!
As I live in England, I look at your outfit try-ons and find similar clothes here.
But this time I was very surprised at the Gauze top you tried on, I tried on one almost identical but in a lovely rich red just yesterday and am still trying to decide whether to go back and buy it!
If I look as good in it as you do, I think it will be a yes!!
Love the outfit with the black slim pants on you! Looks great. How are you liking your new haircut?
I’m loving it. It’s so different to intentionally make it straight rather than trying to add curve and volume for the last 30 years.
Sorry if I accidentally posted this twice! I’m very interested in using the 40%
discount code you provided in your email and when and where to find the place to add it if paying with PayPal.
You add it once things are on your cart. Before you check out. You do need to be on the brands website.
I will need to go back and read this post, but for now I fell down the rabbit hole while searching the link you provided for your discount codes. I’m interested in trying a red light mask and found the PMD led mask. Is this one that you have tried? I’m not very good at always finding the correct spot to enter a discount code, especially when using PayPal. Do you or any of your readers have advice for me on how to do that?
I haven’t tried that one. You add the code in your cart right before checking out.
At 5’1” tall the pedal pusher or skimmer cut just below the knee looks good. Capris are too long and cut my legs in half. I also wear tailored Bermuda shorts. I like my pants to kiss the top of my feet. You look terrific in your choices! Chicos pants fit me well so most are from Chicos. I have several Brigitte pants and love them. Their tops are usually too long on me.