With the sun shining and plenty more rays on the horizon, we’re planning a spot of summer wardrobe shopping, and we’re starting with the basic of any good weather-appropriate wardrobe – shorts.
Every style icon worth their salt knows their short ABCs inside and out. We’ve seen Gwyneth Paltrow rocking hers as part of a polished suit on the red carpet, Alexa Chung working her hero cut-offs, and Rachel Bilson loves her denim Daisy Dukes for their LA cool.
But with so many styles – and lengths – on offer, it can be hard to separate the must-haves from the mistakes.
So, we’ve compiled three fool-proof short shapes for summer to suit your every need. From city slicker tailored styles to versatile summer mid-lengths and legs-eleven hotpants, we’ve got every style covered with our guide to summer’s best shorts.
The only question is, how short do you dare to go?
Tailored
Whoever said shorts couldn’t be smart clearly hadn’t met the tailored short. For office-to-evening wear, this tailored city style should be your go-to. Simply swap flats for heels and add luxe accessories to take your workwear into the night.
3.1 Phillip Lim cotton cuffed shorts, £198, available at Matches. BUY NOW!
Peach Co-ordinating pleated shorts, £35, available at Topshop. BUY NOW!
Diane Von Furstenberg relaxed-fit shorts, £103, available at farfetch.com. BUY NOW!
Summer
Summer shorts should be part of your basics kit. The super flattering mid-length is loved by celebs and fashionistas alike for their versatility – pair yours with a silk shirt and wedges for a luxe Mediterranean-inspired look.
A.L.C. cotton cargo shorts, £298, available at Matches. BUY NOW!
Helmut Lang facet jacquard lace shorts, £260, available at Matches. BUY NOW!
Raoul high waisted cotton shorts, £78, available at Matches. BUY NOW!
Hotpants
For all you long legged lovelies who want to flash a bit extra, check out summer’s hotpants. The shortest of shorts, we love the hotpants for their effortless thrown-on cool. Use Alexa Chung as your inspiration and wear with cute flats, off-beat boots and simple, chic separates for insouciant style.
PRPS Suede fringed denim minishorts, £275, available at Browns. BUY NOW!
Pins & Needles side frill shorts, £25, available at Urban Outfitters. BUY NOW!
Moto ditsy embroidered floral hotpants, £36, available at Topshop. BUY NOW!
