Skirts are great and all, but summer activities like biking and picnicking call for something a bit easier to wear and less prone to wardrobe malfunctions. I, for one, live in shorts all summer, as they're perfect for staying cool without worrying about flashing someone when the wind kicks up. I can't be the only one who is prioritizing comfort this summer, right?
Previously, I rounded up cute pants that are just as stylish as dresses, and now, I'm going to give shorts the same treatment. Admittedly, I went a little crazy and selected a whopping 43 pairs of lightweight shorts for summer because there are just so many good ones out there. Scroll down to shop my favorite light, breezy shorts for summer that rival even your prettiest skirts.
Linen should be your best friend this summer, as the fabric is super breathable.
These shorts are a '60s dream.
These new H&M shorts are bound to sell out.
You can never go wrong with gingham.
Staud never gets it wrong.
Terry will dry super quickly after your dip in the pool.
This smock waist is perfect for the beach because it makes the shorts easy to slide on and off.
So classy.
I'll never stop buying stripes.
This cute floral version is giving me '90s vibes.
I feel like Kate Middleton would love these.
A summer purchase you definitely won't regret.
Madewell has never let me down in the past.
These shorts are giving me surfer vibes.
This floral print is so sweet.
I never knew I needed quilted shorts until now.
Another super-cute, wallet-friendly option from H&M.
These are so much more polished than denim shorts yet just as effortless.
Basketball shorts, but make them fashion.
In case you don't feel like showing a ton of skin, these are fantastic.
I love this entire outfit. Easy, breezy.
This ruffled hemline makes the shorts look like a skirt with the added bonus of more coverage.
The kind of outfit I'd wear 24/7.
Butterflies are a 2000s trend that's back with a vengeance.
How fun is this red-and-white floral print? Fourth of July, anyone?
These might be called Sunday Morning Shorts, but I'll be wearing them all week—thank you very much.
I always love a good pinstripe.
This checkerboard print is so joyful.
H&M strikes again with the perfect balance between cool and classic.
This lilac is so pretty.
Orange you glad I included these?
Tie-dye comes back with full force each summer.
Pretty in pink.
These bermuda shorts are so classy.
Yep, I'd style these with a white tank top, too.
This is one of my favorite brands from Copenhagen.
This eyelet fabric is so special.
Such a fun and unique print.
Mad for plaid.
Florals for summer? Groundbreaking.
Paperbag shorts are very on-trend right now.
You definitely won't regret investing in these practical linen shorts.
Next, I Broke My #1 Shopping Rule for These 23 Fantastic New Arrivals
-
You Had Me at 50% Off—25 Chic Gap Sale Finds That Will Be Instant Summer Closet StaplesOne step closer to effortless outfits.
-
J.Crew Is Having a Major Sale RN—Here Are 29 Pieces I Immediately Added to My CartUp to 50% off.
-
Goodbye, Boring Basics—This Is the Elegant Trend New Yorkers Are Wearing With Tank Tops This SummerObsessed.
-
8 Pieces That Are the Secret Sauce to an Incredibly Chic Summer Outfit RotationGetting ready just got so much easier.
-
It's Officially a Butter-Yellow Summer—27 of the Chicest Finds at Zara,Replica Store, and J.CrewFashion people love this color trend.
-
Dear, Everyone Who Hates Jorts—This Pretty Shorts Trend Is About to Take Over Summer 2025How to style it like an NYC-based fashion editor.
-
I've Lived in NYC, L.A., and Boston—Here's Everything I Think Is Chic for SummerShop the highly curated list.
-
Everyone With Good Taste Is Already Wearing These 7 Chic Summer PiecesThese instantly elevate any look.
