Summer 2019's shorts trends go way beyond your typical cutoffs. While those will always be in style, we've seen a recent spike in popularity when it comes to biker shorts and Bermudas. Yup, that to-the-knee silhouette is back, and we won't leave you hanging when it comes to styling advice. All of the shorts here (even your distressed jeans!) should be worn with proportional pieces that are true to your taste, and we're breaking down the basics as we introduce you to each category.
Whether you're a tomboy who's all about the resurgence of the nylon gym short or someone who's inspired by all things vintage and you love the paper bag look, there are outfit ideas and shopping options for you here. We've even come up with a few challenges for you to dabble in. Like, why not attempt to wear your go-to cycling class bottoms with a pair of kitten heel sandals? It's the Summer, so have fun with your look and don't just stick to dresses and skirts when there's a wide world of shorts out there for you to experiment with.
Whether you like it or not, denim shorts will always be a classic. It's up to you to find the right pair for your shape, the proper length, and some inspired styling, which will change from year to year. Your pick can be lived-in and loose with distress, cuffed like Iskra Lawrences below, or bright white for pairing with sophisticated blazers and boots.
When biker shorts first made their way onto the street, some women felt unsure about how to wear them. But now it seems like the comfortable stretch bottoms come in every color and print under the sun. While it's easy to keep things playful and sporty when you're in biker shorts, challenge yourself to jazz these up with a blazer or a pair of heeled mules instead of your sneakers.
The Bermuda short is back, and yours definitely don't have to be denim. You can draw attention to the knee-length silhouette with the help of strappy shoes or quirky socks. Our biggest advice is to keep things proportional. If your shorts are on the longer side, try a romantic, fitted shirt or crop top, and if your shorts are relaxed, turn up the surfer vibes and tuck an island button-down into the waistband.
You can find these coordinate sets in the bright shades at all your favorite retailers this season. The idea is to keep your look professional, but fresh. Even if you're in standard pinstripes, you can still pile on the jewelry and rock boots instead of an expected pump. Push up the sleeves of your matching blazer to show your shorts off a little more, especially if you love a leggy moment.
Tibi Oversize Striped Twill Blazer ($650) and Tibi Striped Twill Shorts ($325)
Zara Textured Weave Jacket ($90) and Zara Textured Weave Shorts ($40)
POPSUGAR at Kohl's Women's Linen Blazer ($48, originally $64) and POPSUGAR at Kohl's Women's Linen Paperbag Short ($33, originally $44)
Never thought you'd see the day women paired nylon gym shorts with '90s minimalist sandals, did you? Well, that day has come. This Summer, those surfer vibes also come by way of baggy shorts that you can feel comfortable dressing up with blazers. If you like something a little more structured, there are plenty of imitation leather board shorts with a drawstring to help you achieve the same look. Either way, you'll feel refreshed in these light, movable bottoms.
Bassike Leather shorts ($1,400)
Whether your shorts come with a sash at the waist or belt loops, the high-rise style is a modern twist on the '90s mom short with hemlines stopping above the knee. You can keep things vintage inspired with neutral colors, kitten heels, and a leather purse, or work with a breezy blouse and espadrilles on vacation.