Shorts aren’t for everyone—they’re arguably harder to style than jeans and trousers, and some people find them uncomfortable due to dreaded chafing. In 20-degree weather, the combination of rigid denim and sore inner thighs is a recipe for disaster (and a lifetime avoidance of the leg-baring style). But as a former shorts-averse person, I’m a firm believer that it’s simply a case of finding the right cut and fabric for you.
This summer, the sunshine staple is enjoying a moment in the spotlight. It’s only May and already, multiple fresh trends have hit my Instagram feed, from billowy cotton bermudas to the ever-controversial “jorts”, convincing me that it’s time to broaden my shorts horizons. I mean that literally, too, because longer, knee-skimming silhouettes are having a moment right now.
To find out how to wear this and other shorts trends—plus, where to shop the best pairs—scroll on and take a look at seven influencer looks we’ve bookmarked for the season ahead.
1. Cardigan + Boxer Shorts + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: Counterbalance the “boyish” nature of boxer-style shorts by teaming them with a cardigan and ballet flats. I love the blue-and-green combination Kim is sporting here.
Shop the look:
&DAUGHTER
Ada Geelong Crewneck Cardigan in Green
£335
This is Kim’s exact cardigan—it’s such a pretty colour for summer.
NA-KD
Striped Elastic Waist Cotton Shorts
£40
Opt for the classic blue and white stripes.
AEYDE
Delfina Suede Ballet Flats
£270
Sandals aren’t the only footwear option for the warmer months.
2. Linen Shirt + Jorts + Straw Bag
Style Notes: Jorts (that’s jean-shorts) might just take the award for summer’s most divisive trend, but the fashion set has figured out how to make them look incredibly chic.
Shop the look:
& OTHER STORIES
Patch-Pocket Linen Shirt
£85
You’ll get so much wear out of this shirt.
NEXT
Monochrome Straw Natural Shopper Bag
£40
I don’t usually look to Next for accessories, but this bag has convinced me.
MANGO
Straight-Fit Denim Bermuda Shorts
£30
White denim is perfect for keeping things bright and fresh during a sunny spell.
3. Blazer + Tailored Shorts + Slides
Style Notes: No one will be surprised to see a blazer on this list—this tailored staple is a solution to all kind of outfit conundrums. Pair a summery-coloured iteration with equally smart shorts in a contrasting shade.
Shop the look:
& OTHER STORIES
Fitted Linen Blazer
£135
Butter yellow is a trending colour this season.
REFORMATION
Mason Short
£128
Team Who What Wear loves Reformation’s Mason trousers so we’re so pleased to see there’s a shorts version.
EMME PARSONS
Leo Leather Slides
£370
Slide on and go.
4. Waistcoat + White Shorts + Cross-Body Bag
Style Notes: We’ve seen waistcoats worn with jeans, tailored trousers and midi skirts over the past few months, but fashion people are prepping for balmy weather by pairing this trend piece with casual shorts. The ultimate high-low summer look.
Shop the look:
& OTHER STORIES
Tailored Waistcoat
£165
Make every outfit ten times cooler with this waistcoat.
COS
Gathered Drawstring Shorts
£55
These look like they would be so comfy and breezy on a hot day.
DRAGON DIFFUSION
Pom Pom Double Jump Woven Leather Bucket Bag
£211
Dragon Diffusion is the brand to turn to for summer bags.
5. White Shirt + Distressed Shorts + Toe-Ring Sandals
Style Notes: Denim shorts and a white shirt or blouse is a simple formula that will serve you from now until autumn (at which point you can swap the shorts for jeans).
Shop the look:
TOPSHOP
Broderie Lace Trim Insert Shirt in White
£38
This would look great tossed on over a bikini on holiday.
MANGO
Decorative Ripped Denim Bermuda Shorts
£30
Not too much distressing, and not too little.
REFORMATION
Ludo Toe Ring Strappy Flat Sandal
£128
Minimalists, meet your dream sandal.
6. Boxy Tee + Cotton Shorts + Trainers
Style Notes: For casual days when your priority is keeping cool, this laid-back outfit is easy to toss on and instantly look on-point. Any outfit featuring Adidas Gazelles is a win in our books.
Shop the look:
HUSH
Flo Oversized Cotton T-Shirt
£35
This dark grey shade is a slightly softer option than black.
& OTHER STORIES
Relaxed Shorts
£39
Wear these all summer long.
ADIDAS ORIGINALS
Gazelle Indoor Women’s
£90
Colourful sneakers will be replacing plain white kicks this summer.
7. Linen Blazer + Matching Shorts + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: It might be too warm for heavy wool suiting, but a breathable linen suit with shorts instead of trousers is an alternative we can get on board with.
Shop the look:
HOUSE OF DAGMAR
Classic Linen Blazer
£490
Summer suiting done right.
HOUSE OF DAGMAR
Tailored Shorts
£280
So elegant.
EVERLANE
The Day Ballet Flat
£142
These Everlane flats deserve all the hype they get.
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