Anatomy of a Look: Refined Shorts Outfits
It’s rare that I feel bad for men. They generally have it way easier when it comes to most things in life. For instance, most of the year men have an easier time dressing than women. They can throw on a pair of pants, polo shirts or a button-down for pretty much any occasion and walk out the door. Easy. My husband literally gets in the shower ten minutes before we have to leave the house. But when it comes to summer, I look at all the men sweating in their suits, long sleeve shirts and heavy shoes and am so glad I’m not one of them! We women can don a breezy sundress, an airy miniskirt or a cute pair of shorts and be perfectly cool and comfortable all summer long. (Sorry, not sorry.)
I’m personally a huge fan of shorts. They show off your legs like a mini skirt, but with the comfortability of pants. Perfect combination. Historically however, shorts have had the connotation of being purely casual (denim cut-offs, I’m looking at you). But over time there have been some decidedly chic updates and they are now considered versatile and appropriate for many occasions. From cleaned up denim to pleated shorts to linen styles, a summer wardrobe is incomplete without a pair.
So if you love to wear shorts and are looking for alternatives to your go-to cutoffs, here are some chic outfits to inspire you this summer and elevate your everyday looks. These are easy neutral pieces you can wear again and again, creating outfits with so many staples you already own. (hello, capsule wardrobe!)
Sorry men, but this is our season.
LOOK ONE: Cashmere Sweater, White Tee and Casual Shorts
I love these clean denim shorts for an elevated casual look. Anouk layers a sweater over short sleeves with pretty sandals for a versatile outfit inside or out. Layering is often a must-have in the summer when it’s hot outside and buildings keep their air conditioning at fridge temps! If your day requires a lot of walking, elevated casual sneakers would look great with this outfit too.
Everlane, The Cashmere Relaxed V-Neck
Perfect White Tee, Harley
Frame, The Easy High-Rise Denim Shorts
Aritzia, Emblem Solid Brass Leather Belt
Prada, Large Galleria Leather Bag
Sézane, Natacha Sandals
LOOK TWO: Oversized Shirt with Suit Shorts
This billowy shirt silhouette is such a great alternative to a crisp button-down shirt on a hot day. The oversized fit and open weave of the shirt will keep you cool all day. And when paired with short shorts, is the perfect balance of proportions. Finish the look with a thin belt, feminine flats, and oversized sunglasses.
Joseph, Antin Pleated Dolman-Sleeve Blouse
A.L.C., Bennett Linen Shorts
Altuzarra, Horsebit Leather Belt
Dior, Saddle Bag with Strap
Prada, Square Sunglasses
Chanel, Leather Ballet Flats
LOOK THREE: White Linen Shorts and Shirt
This is such a classy outfit and an easy way to stay cool on those hot summer days. A white shirt with a matching pair of shorts looks clean and crisp. Paired with ballet flats and a few black accessories, this look can take you to a work meeting, out for brunch, or a concert in the park.
Sancia, The Sola Shirt
Sancia, The Sastria Short
Sancia, The Neva Belt
Sancia, The Izara Bag
Zara, Bow Trim Fabric Ballet Flats
LOOK FOUR: Matching Set
While French Terry may scream comfort-first, this set’s clean look makes for an elevated outfit. Sets of any kind are one of the easiest ways to look put together. (As illustrated by this article: V Ways to Wear Matching Sets). I love how Julie styled it with a sweater, simple flip flops and a Loewe raffia tote bag for an easy, refined look.
Varley, Tabor Stretch-Jersey Top
Varley, Atrium Jersey Drawstring Shorts
Varley, Kris Open-Knit Cotton Cardigan
Amazon, Casual Flat Flip Flop
Loewe, Small Anagram Basket Bag
Linda Farrow, Talbot Sunglasses
For more chic city outfits, read: One White Skirt, Three Different Looks and Three Summer-in-the-City Looks to Replicate Now.
