If there was ever an article of clothing to define Summer, it's shorts. Bathing suits, yeah, they're also major. Dresses? I mean, obviously, but we wear those year-round. Miniskirts? They probably get more wear in the heat, but you can layer them with tights in the Winter, too. Shorts are quintessentially Summer, thus making a range of shorts outfits essential — whether you style yours for weekends, work (which, yes, can be a thing), or vacation.
While denim cutoffs are usually the go-to in the shorts department, smarter styles with feminine touches abound this season, from high-rise silhouettes that fit looser and longer on the leg to playful prints and frilled hems. Even jean shorts are seeing a reboot via chambray fabrics with cargo pockets and ruched waist detailing.
If you're counting down the days until you can sport your shorts with glee, read ahead and check out seven affordable pairs from the POPSUGAR collection at Kohl's that I've styled out into head-to-toe outfits for a range of occasions. And for more Summer styling ideas, head over to The Outfit Bar at Kohl's, where you'll discover a range of outfits you can wear to the office, for Summer parties, on action-packed weekends, and more.
For dinner, drinks, or a festive occasion, team a pair of printed shorts with a white linen top, and finish with patent sandals, a sleek woven bag, and a cute anklet.
POPSUGAR Printed Pull-On Shorts ($33, originally $44)
Dear Frances Rain Sandal ($325)
TL-180 Saigon Woven Raffia And Leather Shoulder Bag ($222, originally $370)
A frilled pair of shorts is perfect for a party or occasion. To balance the shorter length, style in a voluminous top with long sleeves and punctuate the look with uniquely sleek accessories.
POPSUGAR Ruffle Hem Shorts ($26, originally $44)
Imago-A Nº42 Carré With Disc ($415)
Rethink your t-shirt and shorts combo with a polka-dot pair of shorts and a neon tee. Graphic accessories ensure a superfresh look.
POPSUGAR Printed Pull-On Shorts ($33, originally $44)
Stella and Bow Emily Ring ($220)
Staud Bisset Leather and PVC Bucket Bag ($177, originally $295)
In place of denim cutoffs, try a light-blue pair of shorts with a colorful top and a jean jacket to mimic denim-on-denim styling. For a fashion-girl twist, mix in chunky sandals, a cool pendant necklace, and a sculptural bag.
POPSUGAR Printed Pull-On Shorts ($33, originally $44)
Wilfred Delacroix Tank ($78, originally $98)
3.1 Phillip Lim Yasmine Leather Sandals ($275, originally $550)
LC Lauren Conrad Jean Jacket ($37, originally $50)
Give a printed pair of shorts a smarter feel for work (try it for a Summer Friday?!) by layering a lightweight blazer over a tank top. For your accessories, keep the palette tonal and finish with elevated extras in luxe materials.
POPSUGAR Printed Pull-On Shorts ($33, originally $44)
Tibi Linen Viscose Long Blazer With Removable Tie ($358, originally $895)
Another way to wear polka-dot shorts is via a shorter pair for a night out. For a dramatic effect, style in a voluminous top and sculptural statement earrings, but finish with a cute beaded bag and lace-up sandals to keep the vibe summery.
POPSUGAR Ruffle Hem Shorts ($26, originally $44)
Charles & Colvard Ouro Edition Geo Hoop Drop Earrings in 14K Yellow Gold ($254, originally $299)
Mango Leather Strap Sandals ($100)
Riff off the utilitarian trend with a pair of high-rise chambray shorts with oversize pockets. Rather than go full-on function, pair these shorts with a feminine top, a pastel bag, trendy pearl earrings, and PVC block heels for contrast.
POPSUGAR Paperbag-Waist Shorts ($26, originally $44)
If I Fell Mini Fell Bag ($148, originally $295)