There's no denying what seems to be a resounding interest among fashion people in putting together an expensive-looking closet. When it comes to summer outfits, denim cutoff shorts often come to mind but not usually in a more sophisticated sense so they are often overlooked beyond a casual ensemble. However, I'm not convinced that they need to be. Thanks to the help of some chic styling it's 100% possible to instantly elevate your favorite denim cutoffs.
To prove this, I rounded up nine standout outfits straight from my Instagram outfit inspiration folder that show just how elevated this jeans shorts style can truly be. A red thread through each of these outfits is the inclusion of elevated essentials like smart blazers, effortless T-shirts, classic belts, trendy ballet flats, chic sandals, and more. Keep scrolling to check out and shop each look—I guarantee you will be able to get even more wear out of your denim shorts collection this season.
1.
Shop the look:
Neutral blazers are a personal favorite.
To wear forever.
White tees always come in handy.
You can't go wrong with Levi's denim.
These look luxe.
2.
Shop the look:
Denim goodness.
So sleek.
Perfect for summer.
Agolde jeans are always selling out.
3.
Shop the look:
Cute and under $100.
I want this top in every color.
Statement earrings.
Love a mini bag.
Madewell belts are top notch.
And their denim is as well.
Designer vibes.
4.
Shop the look:
Cool-girl feels.
So many ways to style this piece.
Polo shirts are in the spotlight again.
Another cute mini bag.
For the short shorts lovers.
These also come in red and black.
5.
Shop the look:
Tell me these aren't cool.
The mini ruffles!
For a fun layered look.
Great for layering.
These are selling out fast!
Such a lovely shade of blue.
6.
Shop the look:
Oversize, just the way I like it.
Summer bag alert.
Simple yet chic.
A worthy investment.
Another super-short option.
7.
Shop the look:
Effortless.
I'm obsessed.
Another great pair from Agolde.
The contrast stitching makes these look expensive.
8.
Shop the look:
A chic under-$50 find.
Pretty!
Butter yellow is trending.
Levi's are where it's at.
You can wear this with everything from jeans to skirts.
An affordable pick worth scooping up.
9.
Shop the look:
AReplica Store standout.
Easy breezy.
The ultimate chain bracelet.
Did I mention Bermuda shorts are popular right now?
I could live in these.
-
This Elevated Basics Brand Is Every NYC and London Fashion Person's Best-Kept SecretAnd I just tried on nine pieces in its NYC pop-up.
-
The "Wrong Shoe Theory" Has Gone Feral in NYC—and It's Actually WorkingUnexpected but so stylish.
-
I'm a Fashion Editor Who Loves Effortless Vacation Essentials—25 Gap Finds That Caught My EyeMany are even on major sale.
-
It's Spreading: Every Day, Another Chic L.A. Fashion Person Is Seen Wearing This Black Pants Trend With Ballet FlatsFrench girls also approve.
-
If The Row, Khaite, and Toteme Feel Too Expensive, Here Are 33 Pieces to Try InsteadBring on the luxe-looking outfits.
-
Fashion People Found the Most Expensive-Looking Flat-Shoe Trend Maybe Ever—Shop AwayI haven't taken mine off.
-
It's Music Festival Season—40 Styles the Chicest Festivalgoers Are ConsideringYour shopping guide awaits!
-
People Are About to Ditch Denim Cutoffs for the Casual Shorts Trend That's More 2025Important pre-summer reading.
