Styling Denim Shorts For Summer

Smart & Classic

Shorts | Blazer | Boots | Top | Bag

Denim shorts are an absolute must have for Summer as they are incredibly versatile, pairing with anything, while keeping you cool at the same time. There are so many variations of denim shorts, from longer to short, looser to tight, cuffed to raw and more! There’s literally a pair for everyone. I have styled four different looks here using four very different shorts and have created outfits for each occasion, including something smarter and classy, a festival look, colour blocking and a tomboy style.

The first look above is definitely something you can wear to a meeting (if you work in fashion) or even to a concert and lunch out with friends etc, it’s very versatile. I was inspired by Ashley Tisdale’s most recent look for this one, but I wanted to show that boyfriend shorts don’t just have to be paired with baggy clothes and worn casually. They can definitely be dressed up! Layering over a cream blazer and wearing some ankle boots, with chic jewellery is the way to go!

Festival

Shorts | Top | Sandals | Sunglasses | Headband

As we are in Summer, there are festivals absolutely everywhere! When I think of music festivals, the first thing that springs to my mind is that classic hippy vibe. It was only fitting that I went with a pair of iconic vintage Levi’s shorts and paired them with crochet on top, cropped of course. I think the key to getting a festival look right though is in the accessories. Sandals are a must, as are quirky sunglasses and floral headbands, but one important element is jewellery. You need to layer on as much as you can!

Colour Blocking

Shorts | Shirt | Shirt | Wedges | Bag

If neither of the outfits above are suited to your style and you want something more mature, without skimping on colour, why not try colour blocking with white shorts? White denim makes a great base for bold shirts in blue or pink, but then throw in a clutch that’s another bold shade, like this yellow one, and you are all set! Wedges are a must, so are sleek sunglasses and just a simple ring for the jewellery. I find adding a belt really smartens it up too! This one was inspired by Cindy Crawford.

Tomboy

Shorts | Tank | Shoes | Shoes | Sunglasses

If you are just running some errands and are too hot to wear much clothing, going down the tomboy route is always a great alternative! Boyfriend shorts are a must for this look, pairing them with some sneakers or flat slip ons, then throwing on a loose tank top with a graphic (or plain if preferred), adding some Wayfarers and then a masculine watch to finish it off. This is a really easy going combination which can be worn anywhere during the day if you need something comfortable and easy!

Written by Lorna Burford