Pedal pushers pants go by many names. I have heard these pants referred to as all of the following: Capri pants, Capris, breeches, calf-length slacks, cropped pants, jodhpurs, knickers, leggings, and pegged pants. So many names can get confusing.

Here is what you need to know about pedal pushers. They are calf-length pants that got their start in the 1950’s, and the pedal pusher name comes from the fact that the style was originally designed for cyclists. Cyclists hated that when they rode their bikes, their pants were such a nuisance. Pedal pushers were therefore designed to make outdoor activities, like bike riding more convenient and more easily doable. The shorter length of these pants was beneficial and safer for cyclists because they prevented the hems from getting caught in the spokes of a bicycle.

Pedal Pushers are a good way to ease into shorts, and they are perfect during the springtime when the weather is starting to warm up, but temperatures are not truly hot enough for proper shorts. This style is also good for a day when the weather is warm, and you prefer shorts, but need to be slightly more formal than shorts permit.

Some things to keep in mind with pedal pushers are:

• Pick the right size. Pedal pushers are meant to fit snugly. You want your pedal pushers to hug you’re your body, and show off your natural curves. Baggy pedal pushers are not flattering no matter how thin you are.

• Pick a length that suits you. Pedal Pushers are meant to hit your mid calf, ones that fall right at your knee look odd and unshapely. With full length pants it is easy to see when a pair does not fit you well. With pedal pushers, finding your correct length is harder since your pedal pushers won’t be dragging on the ground or hitting you awkwardly at your ankles like poorly fitting pants would.

• Pick shoes that compliment this style. While there is large debate around which shoes look best with pedal pushers, most fashionistas advise flat shoes like keds, or low heels. These pants do not work as well with high heels. But, obviously shoe choice is your personal preference; so choose the shoe that will end up making you the happiest.

• Pick an accessory to dress up your pedal pushers. You can dress up these pants by wearing a pretty necklace, or pair of earrings. Another idea is to wear a fancier shirt or a cardigan if you are trying to look more professional or fancier.

While pedal pusher pants have gained popularity for men in Europe, in America pedal pusher pants are still predominately worn by women. In general this style fits a female body type better, and more options in this pant are offered to women.

Women’s pedal pushers are perfect for the rest of the spring as well as for the coming summer. Whether you are looking to dress up or dress down, how could you go wrong with a pant option that not only provides comfort, but that looks trendy and stylish as well?