What fashion often boils down to this time of year is this: a shorts invasion. And resistance is futile.
It’s too hot and humid to wear pants, which means jeans are a complete non-starter. Even maxi dresses can be too much on hot days. There are so many options to select from in the shorts arena, so why resist? Dressy shorts, lounge shorts, short shorts, denim shorts and, for those who really do hate wearing shorts, long shorts that are a hybrid of shorts and pants.
Here are some of this season’s cutest, most flattering and/or comfiest options.
Lounge: Sometimes you just want to kick back in something as comfy as possible. Enter the Rib-Knit Bamboo Lounge Shorts ($68 on cozyearth.com), made from viscose from bamboo. They’re as good for your next tennis match as they are for brunch, and the breathable, moisture-wicking fabric keeps you feeling as cool as you look.
The Tomcat Kick Fray Hem Denim Shorts by Mother (Photo courtesy nordstrom.com)
Short shorts: They’re the showstopper to wear when you’re up for getting some attention. The Tomcat Kick Fray Hem Denim Shorts by Mother ($228 on nordstrom.com) are stretch-softened, high-waisted cutoffs that lengthen and flatter legs.
Denim cutoffs: For this summer classic, look no further than the O.G.: a pair of Levi’s 501, cutoffs ($69.50 on levi.com). They come in a bevy of denim shades and washes, from super light blue to black. The iconic design defines your waist and hugs your curves, while still embracing the vintage-y look.
Lino Bermuda Short (Photo courtesy bananarepublic.gap.com).
Long, dressy shorts: When you need a little structure and don’t feel the need to reveal, reach for the Lino Bermuda Short ($100 on bananarepublic.gap.com). The high-waisted, straight-leg, pleated-front style is especially well defined in ivory and navy stripe. You get the comfort (with lightweight, breathable linen) and also a tailored look — a definite win-win.
Short, dressy shorts: Kill two birds with one stone with a design that turns heads and still has a hint of propriety. Like the Buttercup High-Rise Short ($70 on lillypulitzer.com) — a straight-fit with a high-rise waist and pretty scalloped hem, and a hint of stretch.
The Buttercup High-Rise Short (Photo courtesy lillypulitzer.com)
Dressy and comfy: These easy sweatshorts that still look grown-up — and are made of sustainable materials — are a no-brainer. The MWL Airyterry Stitched-Pocket Sweatshorts ($39.50 on madewell.com) are made with 40% organic cotton grown without chemical fertilizers and pesticides from untreated, non-genetically modified seeds. Meanwhile, they’re lightweight and supersoft. So you feel as good wearing them as you do about what they’re made of.