Denim shorts are my official uniform of summer—easy, classic, and endlessly versatile. But let’s be honest, it’s easy to get stuck in the tank-top-and-sneakers loop. So I decided to give my favorite cutoffs a little glow-up. I styled them in ten different ways recently that feel fresh, pulled together, and still totally effortless. Whether you’re heading to brunch, the beach, or just trying to survive a heatwave in style, there’s a summer denim shorts outfit for you. So break out your favorite pair, whether vintage or new, and start styling!
BEACH READY: DENIM SHORTS OVER A BATHING SUIT
This is my go-to beach look: effortless and functional. I threw on my favorite black one-piece (chic enough to double as a bodysuit) and paired it with high-rise grey denim cutoffs that hit that perfect balance of laid-back and polished. Add in a roomy canvas Boat and Tote stuffed with the essentials—sunscreen, snacks, and maybe a paperback I’ll pretend to read—and I’m out the door. On those sunny days when I’m headed to the beach this combo never fails me.
PERFECTLY POLISHED: DENIM SHORTS AND A BLAZER
This pleated style is the right pair of denim shorts for days when you want to feel a little more dressed up. (Okay, technically it’s a skort!) If you’re looking to wear these to the office or a lunch meeting, styling them with a blazer is a great option to dress them up. A blazer is one of the most versatile pieces you can have in your wardrobe and balances this denim skort perfectly. Add some height with strappy sandals and wear a chic belt to finish your look.
PRAIRIE VIBES: DENIM SHORTS WITH A PEASANT TOP
Sometimes you need a pop of color and a feminine silhouette to balance out your distressed cutoff shorts. I love this gauzy red top with embroidery back to the perfectly faded and worn out denim. Prairie tops with feminine details look great back to lived-in denim shorts and make super cute summer outfits.
SHOPPING IN NYC: SILK TOP WITH DENIM CUTOFFS
This is my “I’m just popping into a few shops but might end up at lunch” outfit. I paired my go-to denim cutoffs with a black silk tank for an easy upgrade that still feels breezy in the city heat. The elevated fabric keeps it polished, while the jean shorts keep this casual look grounded. A pair of black and gold sandals, oversized aviators, and my tried-and-true Goyard tote finish it off—equal parts effortless and pulled together. Ideal for navigating SoHo, or just pretending I have errands when really, I’m browsing. (PS – I’m holding cashmere socks in my hand, which I purchased for 50% off…my winter self will thank me later!)
HAMPTONS CHIC: WHITE ON WHITE DENIM SHORTS LOOK
An easy way to keep denim shorts looking chic on hot summer days is to wear them in white. White on white might sound simple, but it actually makes a strong style statement. I love filling my summer wardrobe with oversized white tops that are breezy and easy to throw on with white cutoffs. Here, I layered a light, airy shirt over a bikini top and added a beaded tassel necklace for a touch of laid-back glamour.
VINTAGE VIBES: LACE PAIRED WITH DISTRESSED CUTOFF SHORTS
For me, outfits are all about creating tension – pairing something sweet and feminine with something a bit tougher. I love wearing white frilly tops with broken-in Levi’s; this pair of cut-off shorts is actually from high school and just keeps getting better with age. I styled it with pearl-trimmed jellies and Ray-Bans for the perfect July look. If your style leans a little more boho, try some new ways to mix your feminine tops into your summer denim shorts outfit.
DOWNTOWN COOL: CROP TOP WITH DENIM BERMUDAS
The crop top is a go-to this summer and when worn with blue denim shorts and jelly flats, it’s a home run. If your personal style is more casual than polished, this is the perfect choice for you. It’s a great look for an outdoor music festival or a simple iced coffee run in warm weather. I love this cut off tee paired with Bermuda shorts and clear jellies for a truly relaxed summer vibe.
THE PERFECT SUMMER UNIFORM: CRISP WHITE SHIRT WITH DENIM SHORTS
A crisp white button-down shirt with broken-in denim shorts is one of my favorite go-to summer denim shorts outfits. Paired with a raffia bag and strappy summer sandals and you’ve got an instant look that’s styled to perfection. No notes.
JUST ADD ACCESSORIES: BASIC WHITE TANK AND DENIM SHORTS
When you’re wearing a basic outfit like a white tee and denim cutoffs, one of my favorite ways to elevate it is with accessories. Sometimes all you need is a pair of cool sunglasses or a fun bag to take your look from simple to effortlessly stylish.
SARTORIAL PERFECTION: LINEN VEST WITH DENIM SHORTS
I love a vest almost as much as I love a blazer. If you want a sartorial look in the summer heat, pair a vest with your summer denim shorts outfit. With this look you can go from zoom calls to lunch dates with ease.
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