We don’t know about you, but we are elated that longer-length shorts are back in vogue again. (Our thighs are pretty happy about that news, too.) And while Bermuda shorts are a dream for anyone hoping to avoid chafing this summer, they do have a tendency to look a little, well, frumpy. So we set out to find new, modern ways to style the tricky summer silhouette and what better place to discover some elevated inspiration than the actual runway? Here are seven ways we plan to wear the trend this summer.
How to Wear Bermuda Shorts—and Actually Look Good
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Published May 13, 2019
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Stick To One Range Of Hues
Try a blouse in the same color family (but one that’s not an exact match) as a pair of crisp chinos, for a clean, fresh vibe. If you’re feeling bold, go for accessories in a totally contrasting shade, like how Tibi paired these lilac sandals with a rust red ensemble.
Get the look: Tibi sweater ($350); Jag Jeans shorts ($59); Tibi sandals ($495)
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Opt For Dark Denim
For long denim shorts, it’s best to follow the mom-approved rule: not too tight, not too loose. A tailored cut gives your legs some breathing room without veering into a way-too-voluminous silhouette. As Modem proves, a dark wash and crisp suiting details will help elevate the causal fabric even further.
Get the look: Maeve blouse ($58); Wit & Widsom shorts ($58); Senreve bag ($975); Charles by Charles David shoes ($120)
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Abbreviated Workwear
Speaking of suiting, a shorts and blazer combo in a neutral hue, like beige, gray or navy, can look supremely polished. Match your shoes and bag to the two-piece, to really emphasize a professional vibe (even if you’re just wearing this out to dinner with friends). We would recommend adding an opaque shirt, although Australian designer Dion Lee does prove that this risqué take can be unbelievably chic.
Get the look: La Collection blazer ($770) and shorts ($420); Baum Und Pferdgarten blouse ($128); Vince Camuto sandals ($129)
Michael Kors
Go Crazy With Prints
Throw caution (and everything you thought you knew about print mixing) to the wind. Go on, we give you permission to pair the top and shorts you love most, regardless of whether or not you think they truly go together. Power clashing is real and it’s spectacular, just as Michael Kors shows here. Just be sure to keep the other elements of your look simple and neutral.
Get the look: Nic + Zoe jacket ($188); Double Rainbouu top ($137); Dries van Noten shorts ($45); Tumi bag ($175); Sam Edelman heels ($120)
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Go With The Flow
Bring a bit of that laid-back California vibe to the table with a pleated pair in a flowy fabric (like silk crepe or linen). Throw on an easy, loose knit and strappy sandals to complete this look, inspired by NYC-based designer Sally LaPointe.
Get the look: Eileen Fisher top ($149); Lee Matthews shorts ($325); Cult Gaia heels ($388)
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Mix Feminine And Masculine
Bermuda shorts have a reputation for looking a little boyish. Perhaps because they are the bottom of choice for many a PureWow dad and brother. But anyways, we love the idea of shaking things up and wearing them with a super-girly blouse, like this Rejina Pyo gingham piece. Bring on the dainty bows, voluminous sleeves and a little hint of skin! Don’t forget to add your most ladylike top-handle bag, for an extra femme final touch.
Get the look: Rejina Pyo top ($425); Rejina Pyo shorts ($420); Elleme bag ($445); Kurt Geiger London shoes ($120)
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Pair Short With Long
We know, your cropped denim jacket is your absolute go-to from now until Labor Day. But balance out shorts with a longer jacket, like a kimono or a trench, for a refined getup that looks smart and, dare we say, fabulously fancy. Bonus points if you opt for a runway-approved totally monochrome getup.
Get the look: Something Navy jacket ($189); Elodie top ($25); LOFT shorts ($50); Who What Wear shoes ($35)
