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:
This is Kim's exact cardigan—it's such a pretty colour for summer.
Opt for the classic blue and white stripes.
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:
You'll get so much wear out of this shirt.
I don't usually look to Next for accessories, but this bag has convinced me.
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:
Butter yellow is a trending colour this season.
TeamBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing loves Reformation's Mason trousers so we're so pleased to see there's a shorts version.
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:
Make every outfit ten times cooler with this waistcoat.
These look like they would be so comfy and breezy on a hot day.
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:
This would look great tossed on over a bikini on holiday.
Not too much distressing, and not too little.
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:
This dark grey shade is a slightly softer option than black.
Wear these all summer long.
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:
Summer suiting done right.
So elegant.
These Everlane flats deserve all the hype they get.
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Alexa Chung and Countless Scandi Fashion People Are Invested in This "Controversial" Shorts Trend Right NowDo I need a pair?
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The Fresh-Looking Shorts Trend Elegant Women Are Wearing with Ballet Flats and Low HeelsA chic alt to blue denim.
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I Never Thought I'd Wear These "Ugly" Shoes, But I Was Wrong—8 Ways to Style ThemThey're selling out like crazy.
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Instead of Jorts, I Keep Thinking About This Elegant, Grown-Up Shorts TrendUndeniably chic.
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Out of 7851 Items, Only These 23 Are Worth Looking At in H&M's Exclusive Members SaleThese are sure to sell out.
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My Maxi Skirt and I Are on a Break—These Celebrity Shorts Outfits Are My New Summer InspoI'm in my shorts era.
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I've Worked It Out—These 8 Classic Top Styles Are the Key to Making Shorts Look Elegant This SummerSee you later, jeans.
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Ask Any Fashion Person—This '90s Shorts Trend Is Going to Be Summer's Next Big ThingAdam Sandler is also a fan.
