More functional than a skirt and more comfortable than pants come warm weather, shorts are an obvious go-to for the summer. But gone are the days of micro cutoffs ” unless you’ve graduated to Balmain’s high-rise stretch knit rendition. If the risk of looking a little too cheeky isn’t your cup of tea, there are plenty of other picks.
Below, our top ten shorts for grown ups:
A Little Black Skort: Shop, Vanessa Bruno Crepe Capri Skort, $607
Skip back to your playground days and slip into the perennial favourite and ever-classic skort. Vanessa Bruno‘s asymmetrical version lengthens the leg line, flattering all bodies. The concealed zipper and slightly more generously cut short make this pick look more like a skirt from the back, giving it a dressier look.
The Perfect Leather Pair: Shop, Acne Salt Light Black Shorts, $800
A pair of leather shorts is as much a wardrobe staple as black skinnies: they give an edge any outfit, and even better, add a luxe touch of texture and feel way more amazing to wear than your sometimes uncomfortable slimmies. This pair features a thick elastic waistband and pockets, and are cut a little looser for a chic, grown up leather look.
Boyfriend Denim: Shop, Current/ Elliott The West Coast Charmer/ Gulfline, $190
The relaxed, slightly slouchy fit of these BF shorts are the essence of a pared-down casually put-together outfit. With its darker wash and whiskered detailing, the West Coast Charmers look simply charming cuffed and with your favourite t-shirt tucked in the front.
Graphic Black and White Print: Shop, Thakoon Addition printed stretch silk-blend shorts, $290
Flowing silk is all dressed up in Thakoon‘s far-East inspired printed shorts, which are cut wide and mimic the movement of a skirt. The black and white graphic pattern looks sophisticated and leaves endless outfit possibilities.
Luxe athletic: Shop, T by Alexander Wang Stretch Silk Twill Shorts, $265
Athletic looks rule the runway season after season, and no one does the trend more justice than Alexander Wang. Slip into his luxe portrayal with these soft stretch silk crepe pair and instantly feel more fit/ chic.
Crisp White Scalloped: Shop, Valentino Scalloped Wool and Silk Blend Crepe Shorts, $850
A playful way to wear summer’s favourite colour, a scalloped hem lends a lighthearted feel to any ensemble. The sturdy wool and slinky silk blend lend a refined feel to keep things sophisticated.
Grown Up Military: Shop, Madewell Cutoff Fatigue Shorts, $64.50
Loving the military look can be a fine line after the age of high school: camouflage can be tricky and do more highlighting than concealing. Win the war on style with these military-inspired shorts for a flattering, on-trend look.
Pink Party Shorts: Shop, Delpozo Embellished Shorts $6,750
Yes, these shorts cost more than most brides’ wedding gowns, but how many more times will you get to wear these amazing bright pink paillettes-dotted shorts? Infinitely, thanks to their balanced beige canvas and silk blend and truly intricately beautiful details.
Vacation-ready: Shop, Emilio Pucci Cotton Floral Jacquard Shorts, $776
Nothing says ˜holiday’ quite like a saturated, juicy tangerine shade, and these Emilio Pucci graphic-printed shorts. The tasseled ties add a touch of whimsy, while the floral-esque pattern screams VACATION!
Office appropriate: Shop, J Crew Collection Metallic Jacquard Shorts, $168
The longer hemline, sharp black trim and metallic sheen make these shorts all grown up and ready for a day at the office; formal enough for work wear yet still super sylish, this sophisticated pair takes you from board room to cocktail hour.
