After years of super-high hemlines, shorts are getting, well, less short. This is big news for your summer wardrobe. While you may have previously viewed shorts as a secondary player only really viable for off-duty occasions (weekends, vacations, and other similarly informal settings), these new, longer versions are making them a strong contender for all sorts of summertime wear. In particular, the latest crop of high-waisted trouser shorts are surprisingly versatile and no doubt destined to become a fixture in your outfit rotation this season.
Longer shorts appeared on the runways of Fendi and Chanel as mid-length cycling spandex; Loewe and JW Anderson riffed on utilitarian cargo styles; and others such as Prada, Tibi, and Bottega Veneta showed sophisticated spins on the Bermuda short. Even knee-length jorts that once might’ve made you shudder have found their way back into the current sartorial zeitgeist. And if the runways didn’t make it official enough, the Instagram crowd has since cemented the trend: Short shorts are out and long shorts are in.
A subset of the larger long-shorts trend, trouser shorts are characterized by a more elegant, refined look, typically featuring tailored elements such as pleats, cuffed hems, and high nipped-in waists. These design details give the styles an elevated, polished feel so you can wear them to the office or for a night out — and still get plenty of casual use out them too. Trouser shorts can be slim-cut and fit narrowly along the thigh (but they shouldn’t be too tight), or voluminous and roomy (though never overly slouchy). And you can opt for a range of fabrics — lightweight linen, classic chino and twill, or fancier textiles like satin, jacquard, or silk. Bottom line: You've got options. Keep reading to find your perfect pair of trouser shorts and see the many ways you can wear them.
Vacation-Ready
Long trouser shorts still fit the bill for casual wear — especially when you style them with a vacation-inspired shirt and retro sneakers.
Shorts + Swim
A high waist and extended length offers you a little more wiggle room with what you wear on top. For smoldering summer days, add a crop or bra top (a bikini top will do the trick, too) and some minimalist, strappy sandals.
Playful Prints
Try a playful, bright print to offset the more conservative silhouette of a long short. Polka dots, gingham checks, or colorful stripes are all great options.
Khaki + Sneakers
Elevated meets effortless in this tailored khaki short suit. The addition of a white tee and sneakers adds that cool factor to the look.
Dressed Up Separates
Go slouchy and longline with your separates, then polish things up with your accessories. A pair of croc-embossed slingbacks are the perfect touch.
Standout Styling
Add intrigue to the shorts style and feel free to experiment with bold prints and fancier textiles to take things up a notch.
Shorts + Heels
An extra-long pair of shorts captures some of the sophistication of a full-length pant, but you'll probably want to wear these varieties with higher heels to balance out the unusual length.
Cool, Comfy Linen
Tailored shorts in a neutral hue can look sleek and modern for a day at the office, but add breezy linen pieces and complimentary neutrals and they're an easy option for the weekend too.
Matching Set
Embrace a retro flair in some candy-colored knee-length shorts and a matching crop top. This look feels straight out of the 1950s or '60s.
Crisp Suiting
Sharply tailored and cuffed at the hem makes these shorts keenly suited to a professional outfit, while the crisp white hue is quintessential to all good summer looks.
Slick Leather
Up the luxe factor and opt for elegant trouser shorts in supple leather hides. Style with a simple tee for a high-low look.
Mix And Match
A slim Bermuda-style short works well with a loose, breezy blouse for a business-on-the-bottom meets vacation-mode-on-top vibe.
Shades Of Gray
Gray suiting separates are surprisingly versatile, as proven above. Wear a crop top when you want some edge, then swap in something more refined when you need to dress it up.
