This Expensive-Looking Trouser Trend Could Replace Denim Shorts This Summer

While denim shorts are a major summer mainstay, I've started to notice another piece take hold this season: tailored shorts. Even Meghan Markle has taken on this polished trend. While I don't expect to see denim shorts slink away entirely, I'm not surprised that the sharply tailored bottoms are taking over. After all, it's the summer of the clean-girl aesthetic. Sleek, polished, anti-trend pieces are everywhere, so it only makes sense that fashion people are gravitating to the easy, minimal shorts right now.

When it comes to styling, you can approach them in a similar way to denim shorts or jeans. The fashion set has been wearing them with looks that are casual yet pulled-together—pairing them with everything from white tees and strappy sandals to bandeau tops and slingback heels. Ahead, get inspiration for how to wear tailored shorts this season and tap into the cool looks that are defining effortless summer style.

1. Strapless Top + Long Shorts + Mules

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(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

Style Notes: It always works to go for a tonal look. Pair tailored shorts with a bandeau top, a leather belt, and pointed heels for an outfit that strikes the perfect balance of polished and cool.

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2. White Shirt + Cotton Shorts + Toe-Loop Sandals

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(Image credit: @fakerstrom)

Style Notes: The Kendall Jenner look that took summer 2021 by storm is just as chic if you swap out trousers for tailored shorts. Consider this your go-to outfit for a heat wave.

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3. Blazer + Dad Shorts + Monochrome Accessories

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(Image credit: @clairerose)

Style Notes: Blazers are a year-round staple, and this outfit proves it. Adding a blazer to tailored shorts and a T-shirt instantly lends more structure, making it the perfect look to wear for casual business meetings.

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4. Tank Top + Linen Shorts

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(Image credit: @deborabrosa)

Style Notes: For a look that reads as a bit dressier, focus on an elegant top. It can be as simple as a two-tone tank that is tucked into sharp shorts and paired with a sleek bag.

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5. Blazer + Knee-Length Shorts + Trainers

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(Image credit: @aniyahmorinia)

Style Notes: It doesn't get cooler than simply adding a blazer in a complementary shade along with some eye-catching trainers. This is the ultimate weekend outfit.

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6. Long-Sleeved Tee + Matching Shorts + Suede Bag

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(Image credit: @tylynnnguyen)

Style Notes: Here's another look that plays with a T-shirt and shorts. The upsized tee gives it a casual and relaxed feel, while the strappy sandals and suede shoulder bag make it feel intentional.

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Next: The Simple Jeans-and-Shoe Formula Fashion Insiders Swear By in Summer

This post originally appeared on Who What Wear US and has since been updated.

Associate Director, Special Projects

Kristen Nichols is the Associate Director, Special Projects at Who What Wear with over a decade of experience in fashion, editorial, and publishing. She oversees luxury content and wedding features, and covers fashion within the luxury market, runway reporting, shopping features, trends, and interviews with leading industry experts. She also contributes to podcast recordings, social media, and branded content initiatives. Kristen has worked with brands including Prada, Chanel, MyTheresa, and Luisa Via Roma, and rising designers such as Refine and Tove, and her style has been featured in publications including Vogue.com, Vogue France, WWD, and the CFDA. Before Who What Wear, Kristen began her career at Rodarte, where she worked on assistant styling, photo shoots, and runway shows, and at Allure, where she moved into print and digital editorial. She graduated from the University of Southern California, where she studied art history and business, and currently lives in New York.