Shorts are a summer staple – but one of the trickiest to get right. With trends constantly shifting, figuring out which styles of shorts are in – and where to wear them – can feel like a moving target.
This year, it’s less about how much leg you show and more about how you style it. Celebs like Mila Kunis and Hailey Bieber are striking a balance between comfort and polish. The 2015 frayed denim cut-offs? Benched.
In their place: modern takes on micro-shorts, Bermudas, boxers, and chinos – proving shorts can be chic, structured, and styled well beyond the beach. Pair them with boots, loafers or kitten heels, and your outfit’s suddenly dinner-party ready.
With 90-degree days ahead – along with rooftop parties, lunch dates, and office commutes – your shorts game needs to rise to the occasion.
Here’s your guide to this summer’s best shorts – and exactly where to wear them.
IN: Bermuda Shorts – For Girls’ Dinners & City Days
After years with denim cutoffs in the limelight, fashion is swinging back to longer, more refined shapes. From Gwyneth Paltrow’s tailored pairs to accessible versions at Mango and Favorite Daughter, Bermudas are the polished update your wardrobe didn’t know it needed. Dress them up with a tank and slingbacks for dinner, or down with jean Bermudas, Sambas, and an oversized tee for a casual city day.
đź–¤Try:
- The Low Favorite Bermuda Short – Favorite Daughter ($228)
- Straight-fit mid-rise denim jorts – Mango ($54.95)
IN: Micro-Shorts – For Nights Out & Fashion-Forward Errands
Tailored, linen, ruffled, or patterned (hello, gingham), low-rise micro-shorts are playful but polished. Pair them with a boxy tee or button-down, then finish the look with slingback heels, loafers, or tall boots (skip the sneakers). Perfect for a night out, rooftop parties, or creative errands when you want to turn heads.
đź–¤Try:
- JUNE Low Rise Short in Saddlebrook – Reformation ($128)
- Micro shorts – Urban Outfitters ($52.80)
- Stretch Micro Gingham Short – Abercrombie & Fitch ($60)
IN: Boxer Shorts – For Lazy Sundays & Low-Key Lounging
Yes, boxer shorts are officially outerwear. Light, oversized, and breezy – these are the shorts to wear when you want to look good without trying. Style with a fitted tank or an oversized button-down, and finish with chunky sandals or kitten heels. Perfect for local diners, chill days off, or nights-in with friends.
đź–¤Try:
- Miles Short Mojito – Reformation ($98)
- Out From Under Boxer Short – Urban Outfitters ($29)
- x We The Free Day To Day Boxer Short – Free People ($38)
IN: Chino Shorts – For Polished Days & Business-Casual Vibes
Once reserved for prep-school and golf courses, chino shorts are making a quiet-luxury comeback. Opt for neutral tones like stone or navy, and pair with a tucked-in tee and butter yellow ballet flats or slingback heels. Chinos are ideal for lunches with friends, gallery visits, and even summer Fridays at the office.
đź–¤Try:
- Cotton Chino Short – Ralph Lauren ($128)
- Aritzia Women’s Chino Mid-Rise Mini Shorts in Washed Black – Aritzia ($68)
- SĂ©zane Light beige ($125)
The Verdict?
Shorts are no longer just for the beach. This summer, you can wear them to dinner, to work, or while running errands – as long as you pick the right pair. Style is all in the details: a polished shoe, a structured top, a little contrast. Summer’s short, but your style doesn’t need to be.
