No matter where you live in the world, you're probably going to want to wear shorts during the summer. But as far as summer staples go, shorts aren't exactly the easiest item to style. There are many different types of shorts, and figuring out what to wear with them can take a bit of trial and error.
Shorts trends don't change all that often (just consider how long bike shorts and cutoff denim shorts have been a thing), so coming up with fresh ways to wear them is of the utmost importance as the weather warms up. Since summer is here and shorts are coming back into our outfit rotations, now is the perfect time to think about how to put together shorts outfits that aren't just the same old thing.
To avoid looks that seem a bit dated, I found nine new ideas for you, as worn by some of Instagram's most stylish. Keep scrolling to find out how to try them for yourself and to shop similar shorts to wear on repeat.
1. KEEP IT TONAL
Pair beige shorts with a vest and sweater draped over your shoulders. Complete the look with classic trainers.
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A polished alternative to the casual white tank.
Keep a fine knit close to hand for when the temperatures cool off after the sun sets.
A summer wardrobe staple.
Ironically, sporty or "ugly" trainers are some of the coolest styles on the market.
2. INVEST IN MATCHING SETS
Make boxer shorts street appropriate by pairing them with a shirt in a matching hue, and layer over a tank. The Frankie Shop makes it easy with its best-selling co-ord.
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We love this fresh shade of orange for summer.
A racerback vest thick enough to stay opaque.
Roomy, loose cotton shorts are a heatwave essential.
3. ELEVATE YOUR DENIM
Make your long denim shorts feel more elevated by pairing them with items including vinyl slides and a cute cardigan.
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Ever since that Katie Holmes moment, we're still obsessed with wearing cardigans as tops.
Forget tiny hotpants. The unexpected length of denim Bermuda shorts makes them an instantly chic option.
Barely there shoes are always a good idea with shorts.
4. TRY WHITE ON WHITE
The chicest way to wear white shorts is with other white pieces. (Just be sure to avoid the espresso and red wine.)
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Trust us: If you haven't already stocked up on linen this summer, start here.
A comfortable pull-on style with a soft banded waist. (Plus, it has pockets.)
A new design for the brand's 10th anniversary, the V-10 is a classic, comfortable, everyday white trainer that's made from sustainably harvested materials.
5. SWITCH UP YOUR LENGTHS
Long, fitted denim shorts are best worn with heels (trust me), and something simple and polished like Lucy's knit top will never look dated.
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Update a basic cardi by opting for a belted, collared style.
The high-rise waist and frayed hem give these the vintage appeal we love from denim shorts.
Dress up cut-off denim with strappy sandals.
6. DON'T LIMIT YOUR FOOTWEAR
It’s easy to assume wearing shorts means sandals need to be worked into the formula. However, as Imani proves, this isn’t the case. In fact, her loafers make her look all the more directional and cool.
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A classic linen shirt with a relaxed fit that we'll wear half-tucked into tailored shorts.
Maybe it's the seaside connotations, but blue and white feel like the perfect combination for a summer outfit.
You'll wear these loafers all autumn and winter.
7. ADD A BLAZER
A blazer makes everything better, even cycling shorts, which are considered to be one of the more relaxed shorts styles out there.
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An oversized blazer is the perfect boxy fit to pair with fitted shorts.
Heist shapewear smooths your silhouette while drawing in the waist to help tailored clothes sit properly.
Cycling shorts, we aren't done with you yet. Especially not when dressed up with a blazer.
8. CLASH TEXTURES
In Britain, it rarely gets too hot for denim and vegan leather, particularly when you wear it in shorts-and-shirt form.
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Forget heavy denim jackets this summer, and opt for a lighter, layerable shirt.
Don't panic. These aren't sweat-inducing leather shorts. They won't weigh you down.
Act quickly—there's a full size range now, but these just landed in the Arket sale, and we predict a sell-out.
9. NEUTRALISE BRIGHT STYLES
Bright shorts might seem like something you wear solely on holiday, but they can work just as well on home soil worn with a simple tee and classic accessories.
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A white T-shirt is the most versatile piece in your wardrobe.
Nanushka's Megan shorts are cut from lightweight cotton poplin with an elasticated waist and wide legs for the comfiest possible wear.
Possibly the first raffia bag to officially reach certified iconic status.
Next up, the biggest spring/summer 2022 fashion trends to know.
This piece originally appeared on Who What Wear U.S.
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