Shorts weather has well and truly arrived. At this point in the year, those who rely on jeans to ground their daily outfits usually turn to denim shorts to fulfil the same duty. But for some reason, the latter is trickier to style.
Shorts are inherently casual, whereas jeans are easy to dress up and incorporate into smarter looks. Perhaps it's the fact that a lot more skin is on show, or it could just be the association with warm weather and the laid-back vibes that come with it. Whatever the explanation is, the good news is we're here with some tips and tricks to make your shorts outfits feel more polished.
So, instead of reaching for your closest white T-shirt (no one's judging—it's a solid combination), keep scrolling. Below, you'll find out exactly which tops and shoes will make your basic denim shorts seem so much more expensive.
5 Easy and Stylish Ways to Wear Shorts This Summer
1. Relaxed Shirt + Pleated Shorts + Tie Sandals
Style Notes: It might seem obvious, but pulling out one of the smartest items in your wardrobe is a quick way to elevate your denim shorts. Yes, we're talking about a button-down shirt.
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When it comes to summer dressing, the brighter the better.
Obsessed with the pleat detail.
These would work just as well with dresses, trousers and skirts.
2. Waistcoat + Distressed Shorts + Fisherman Sandals
Style Notes: Linen waistcoats are one of this summer's best-loved buys, alongside fisherman sandals. The two just so happen to pair perfectly with denim shorts.
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A white waistcoat is ideal for summer.
AGOLDE is my go-to brand for denim staples.
I wear my fisherman sandals so much in summer.
3. Denim Jacket + Tank Top + Bermuda Shorts
Style Notes: Keep it simple and wear your shorts with a tank top, but not just any tank top. We're favouring styles with contrast necklines like Francesca's, and leather flip-flops to complete the effortless look.
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For those chillier summer days.
I love the contrast stitch detailing.
These will go with everything.
3. Crochet Top + Mini Shorts + Basket Bag
Style Notes: When in doubt, do as the French do. A crochet top always shows you're in the know, trend speaking, especially if you pair it with the season's most coveted basket bag.
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You'll never tire of this top.
These shorts will be a pair you bring out year after year.
Loewe's bag game is strong every summer.
5. Blazer + White Shorts + Heels
Style Notes: I'm sure we sound like a broken record, but blazers really seem to solve all outfit dilemmas. Add sleek black strappy heel and you're ready for any occasion.
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A blazer can still work for summer if you opt for a lightweight fabric.
These are so versatile.
I prefer a low heel for all day comfort.
6. Gingham Top + Long Shorts + Sunglasses
Style Notes: We've seen gingham everywhere so far this summer and don't anticipate its departure anytime soon. Pair a gingham top with long knee-length denim shorts and finish off with some sunglasses for the ultimate summer look.
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You'll be reaching for this Reformation top all summer long.
The oversized cargo style fit of these shorts give them such a cool finish.
Sunglasses are always worth the investment.
7. Basic Tee + White Shorts + Flip Flops
Style notes: A basic monochrome look is far from boring and instead, is a stylish summer go-to. Pairing a basic black tee tucked into white shorts seems so simple yet can make such an impact.
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I won't go anywhere but COS for basics.
These are such a steal at that price.
These Toteme sandals have been at the top of my wishlist for so long now.