Cycling Shorts Are Back for the Third Summer in a Row—Here's How to Wear Them

Bridging the gap between style and comfort, cycling shorts are now a summer wardrobe staple. Here are five fresh ways to wear them in 2025.

I hope you won't judge me for admitting this, but I currently have far too many tabs open on Net-a-Porter. In an attempt to refresh my summer wardrobe in one fell swoop, you'll find floral dresses, lace camisoles and a fair few pairs of sandals waiting to make their way into my basket. But nestled in amongst these usual summer staples, you'll also find one more piece I just can't be without: cycling shorts.

There was once a time I didn't think I'd be that person—the one who wants to wear clingy, stretchy shorts anywhere other than the gym—but thanks to the proliferation of cycling shorts across social media over the past few years, I've been converted. And now that the weather is warming up, a quick scroll on IG reveals a plethora of stylish women in the sleek shorts trend, peppered with plenty of vintage inspiration courtesy of Princess Diana, who we can pretty much credit entirely with making cycling shorts chic.

But though they might be on-trend, how do you wear cycling shorts? Well, the good news is that this year, they can be styled (and restyled) in so many different and wearable ways. Whether you're popping out to run errands, want something cool and comfy to wear for drinks at the pub, or are looking to elevate the style for a more luxe feel, I've got you. Or, at least, my favourite influencers have.
Keep scrolling to see five fresh ways to wear cycling shorts in 2025.

1. Sweatshirt + Shorts + Trainers

@amaka.hamelijnck How to wear cycling shorts

(Image credit: @amaka.hamelijnck)

Style Notes: I told you Princess Diana was the original cycling-shorts influencer, and a sweatshirt and shorts combo was one of her go-to outfits. Here, Amaka Hamelijnck brings the look into 2025 by opting for a muted colour palette and cute oval sunnies for her morning matcha run.

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2. Jacket + Roll Neck + Shorts + Ballet Flats

@hannamw How to wear cycling shorts

(Image credit: @hannamw)

Style Notes: Whilst many people use cycling shorts as a building block in their summer outfits, stylist Hanna MW (pictured above) proves they can be the focal point. Follow her lead and opt for a colourful style paired with simple separates to allow them their main-character moment.

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3. Denim Jacket + Vest + Shorts + Loafers

@gracecarolinelarcade How to wear cycling shorts

(Image credit: @gracecarolinelarcade)

Style Notes: Busy day in the city? There's a cycling-shorts outfit for that. Just take a look at Grace Larcade's holiday look in Rhodes (above). It's fun, stylish and practical in equal measure.

4. Crop Top + Shorts + Trainers

@aniyahmorinia How to wear cycling shorts

(Image credit: @aniyahmorinia)

Style Notes: If you want to look like you're going to play some sort of sport, even if you're not, opt for a matching crop top and cycling shorts set, and a pair of trainers.

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5. Blazer + Shorts + Heels

@emmamilton How to wear cycling shorts

(Image credit: @emmamilton)

Style Notes: The easiest way to smarten up cycling shorts is to add a chic jacket. Whether it's a trench coat or a blazer, this is the best way to turn the classic sports shorts into something a bit special.

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Freelance Fashion Beauty Writer

Jazzria Harris is a freelance fashion and beauty journalist with over 8 years of experience working in the industry. At just 4ft 11, she’s an expert in petite dressing. She has also mastered the art of identifying upcoming nail and hair trends before anyone else. Her wardrobe staples are a great black blazer and, of course, a great pair of heels (for the extra inches). Jazz has written for publications including Marie Claire, ELLE UK, heat magazine, Eliza, Women Home and more.

With contributions from