The "Boring" Summer Basic Every Fashion Person Owns

woman wearing white trouser shorts and belt

(Image credit: @divrav)

White shorts always shape up to be the sleeper hit of the summer. Minimal, easy, and endlessly wearable, they’re the kind of staple that doesn’t need to shout to be relevant. Every fashion person seems to own a pair, but the way they’re being styled this summer feels especially fresh—less resort cliché, more cool-girl uniform. Whether tailored or slouchy, they’re the base for some of the season’s best looks.

For summer 2025, it’s all about contrast. Crisp, structured white shorts paired with oversize poplin shirts and sleek sandals feel modern and pulled together without trying too hard. On the other end of the spectrum, longer, looser silhouettes styled with fitted tanks or sporty pieces like retro sneakers and oversize crewnecks give off an effortless edge. It’s a subtle shift, but it makes all the difference.

Texture also plays a role. Think clean denim, soft linen, or elevated twill—each bringing a slightly different energy. Linen pairs feel breezy and low-maintenance, especially when worn with simple tanks or ribbed knits. White denim cutoffs, on the other hand, still hold their place, but the styling this year is more pared-back: minimal accessories, neutral layers, and sharp shapes.

At the end of the day, white shorts aren’t a trend—they’re a foundation. And right now, they’re the piece every stylish person is building their summer wardrobe around. If you haven’t figured out how to wear yours yet, now’s the time to start.

See our favorite white-shorts outfits for summer 2025 below.

woman wearing white long denim shorts and striped button down shirt

(Image credit: @caitlinmiyako)

This is how you dress up your white cutoff shorts.

woman wearing white shorts and oversized long sleeve green shirt and loafers

(Image credit: @meganadelaide)

Here's your go-to casual outfit for running errands this summer.

woman wearing white boxer shorts and ballet flats

(Image credit: @cinnamonryan)

Ballet flats are always the key to a cool and comfortable look.

woman wearing white denim cut off shorts and red flip flops

(Image credit: @chloekathbutler)

We love the all-white with a pop of red situation happening here.

woman wearing long white shorts and long trench coat with ballet flats

(Image credit: @nnennaechem)

This look is checking off all Wholesale Replica Bag summer trends: long pendant necklace, round glasses, and sleek leather belts.

woman wearing white micro shorts and white button down shirt

(Image credit: @camillecharriere)

We're 100% re-creating this outfit on our vacation this summer.

woman wearing white trousers and sweater

(Image credit: @fakerstrom)

Perfect for the office and beyond.

woman wearing white boxer shorts and loafers with trench coat

(Image credit: @claire_most)

Another laid-back way to wear white boxer shorts this warm-weather season.

woman wearing white trouser shorts and belt

(Image credit: @divrav)

We're seeing a trend here—white trouser shorts paired with a fitted top and timeless black belt.

woman wearing white sweat shorts with white t-shirt and sneakers

(Image credit: @mimi.orere)

It's giving the official chill-but-stylish uniform all the girls will wear to and from workouts.

woman wearing long white ruffle shorts with black boots

(Image credit: @_paulineleroy_)

Long shorts paired with tall boots never looked so chic.

woman wearing long white trousers and belt with cropped white top

(Image credit: @holliemercedes)

More proof it's all in the details, and by details, we mean a fun black belt.

woman wearing white mini shorts with white t-shirt

(Image credit: @annelauremais)

The perfect combo to wear on early morning coffee runs while you're on vacation.

woman wearing white long shorts with white kitten heels

(Image credit: @johannalager)

It's the kitten heels styled with long white trouser shorts for us.

woman wearing white breezy shorts with matching eyelet top and loafers

(Image credit: @maggie_mccormack)

It wouldn't be summer style without a breezy white matching et.

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Contributing Fashion Editor