Clamdiggers vs. Capris

motherofms

This is probably a "dumb newbie question", but can you please explain the difference between clamdiggers and capris? It sounds like YLFers approve of clamdiggers, but disapprove of capris. I want to make sure I buy the right thing. : ) Thanks!!

14 years ago

Dressing

14 replies

Latest reply was from motherofms

Christie

Active Member

Capris are the mid-calf, looser fitting cropped pants.

Clams are hemmed mid-knee to just below the knee and are a closer fitting look ... like a hemmed skinny jean. Walking shorts, also an "approved" look, are a bit shorter than clams and can be a bit looser than a clam.

At least that's how I see the differences. If I'm wrong, please correct me!

14 years ago

Sparky

Veteran

Cricket gives a great explanation, I think. The problem with capris is that they cut off the leg at an unflattering point, often right across the widest part of the calf, shortening the leg line. Clams hit the leg at a narrower part of the leg and have a more leg lengthening effect. Ergo more flattering!

That's my also-newbie way of looking at it.

14 years ago

motherofms

Active Member

Thank you both so much for these great explanations! That helps a lot.

14 years ago

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

This is a great question and welcome to the forum. These posts with visuals should clarify the situation:

http://youlookfab.com/2008/04/.....nd-capris/

http://youlookfab.com/2008/05/.....er-skinny/

14 years ago

Carole

Veteran

Thanks for the review, I have shyed away from clams and capri's altogether because I just haven't quite figured this out yet..I have a pair of slim fitting capri's all set to hem up and this will motivate me to finish the project...but if I'm not mistaken, Sparkey, I think after reviewing Angies forum post recommendations Clams ARE to hit at the widest part of the leg...right?

14 years ago

Queen Mum

Veteran

and there is no such thing as a "dumb newbie question"

Carole- I think clams can hit either at the widest spot of your calf or anywhere to just under the knee. It would depend on your preference. As you are tall , that might be a nice length for you. Look at the second link Angie posted.

14 years ago

Carole

Veteran

oh thanks, Kim! So you think just under the knee would be flattering?

14 years ago

Queen Mum

Veteran

I think so... that's where I wear mine.

14 years ago

Carole

Veteran

Great-it's so nice to have such personal wardrobe counceling, Kim! Thanks

14 years ago

Lisa

Veteran

I hope you don't mind my piggy backing on this question but, since Queenie mentioned being tall, does this mean the short folks (I'm 5'3") should stay away from clams?

14 years ago

Queen Mum

Veteran

I don't think so Lisa. I just think it would be easier for Carole to wear her clams a little longer if she wanted.
I'd say for you to keep your clams right below your knee and you should be fine.

14 years ago

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Not at all Lisa. I have a 4ft 10 client in clams - just hemmed to the right length.

14 years ago

agrace

Active Member

It took me a while to grasp this one but I finally think I am getting it, and getting equally irritated by the cinched ones that are out this season that do not STAY cinched. I think finding a good pair of these is great and then they should be duplicated if one actually procures a pair that works. Great question and good refresher for me.

14 years ago

motherofms

Active Member

Thank you all so much. Angie, the pictures were especially helpful. It is dramatic to see the difference.

14 years ago

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