I'm Surprised That This Controversial Denim Trend Is a Thing
Just when I was actually starting to warm up to the bike shorts trend that had me pretty intimidated last summer, the fashion world goes and takes them to another level. Yes, denim cycling shorts are the latest iteration of the polarizing trend to emerge, and admittedly, I wasn't ready for them initially.
I mean, let's face it: We've been conditioned to associate longer cutoffs—"jorts," if you will—with bad taste. A quick search of the word on Urban Dictionary confirms this reputation: "a combination of the words 'jean' and 'shorts' used to describe the hideous attire, usually sported by NASCAR aficionados and men over 40."
I think hideous is a little dramatic, but it explains why I was shocked to see jorts popping up last summer, when some of the absolute coolest girls in fashion started styling them on Instagram. Now, as summer starts to materialise on the horizon, brands and retailers all over the internet have started stocking the shorts in a range of fits, from slim styles that mimic spandex bike shorts to roomier ones, confirming that they're a thing.
Like most of the other major 2019 trends, I'm pointing a finger at the '90s for being the main inspiration here. Whatever their origin, I'm totally intrigued by the style, and quite honestly thankful that they might just put an end to short shorts for good. I've just recently added a pair of denim Bermuda shorts to my closet, so keep reading to find a pair for yourself and get inspired by the outfit ideas I plan to try with them along the way.
If every fashion girl's favourite denim destination is stocking the shorts, you know it's a thing.
If the knee-grazing length still terrifies you, try out this mid-length pair.
Tuck in a tie-dye T-shirt and throw on some shell jewellery and you're peak spring 2019.
Related: 19 New Under-the-Radar Brands I'll Be Shopping This Summer
The fitted waist on these will be so flattering.
Mark my words: Fashion's inner circle will be testing out this capri length soon enough.
Keep your beige-toned looks going strong into summer with this neutral wash.
A classic white style will go with your whole summer wardrobe.
Next Up: These Fresh Styling Tricks Will Make Any Outfit Feel 100 Times Cooler
Anna is an editor on the fashion team at Who What Wear and has been at the company for over five years, having begun her career in the Los Angeles office before relocating to New York, where she's currently based. Having always been passionate about pursuing a career in fashion, she built up her experience interning at the likes of Michael Kors, A.L.C., and College Fashionista before joining the team as a post-graduate assistant editor. Anna has penned a number of interviews with Who What Wear's cover stars over the years, including A-listers Megan Fox, Issa Rae, and Emma Chamberlain. She's earned a reputation for scouting new and emerging brands from across the globe and championing them to our audience of millions. While fashion is her main wheelhouse, Anna led the launch of WWW Travels last year, a new lifestyle vertical that highlights all things travel through a fashion-person lens. She is passionate about shopping vintage, whether it be at a favorite local outpost or an on-the-road discovery, and has amassed a wardrobe full of unique finds. When she's not writing, you can find her shooting street imagery on her film camera, attempting to learn a fourth or fifth language, or planning her next trip across the globe.
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