Shorts sets and long shorts are trending for summer! If you don’t know how to style shorts, it can become a trickier wear. That’s why we’ve made this foolproof guide to make this summer staple trend work in your favor! We love shorts sets looks for dining out, traveling, afternoon events and more. Here are a few general rules to keep in mind when nailing the long shorts look for summer:

1. The length of your shorts should hit you at a smaller part of your thigh, NOT the widest part! This golden length differs from person to person, especially talls and petites. Flutter leg/Butterfly openings are a flattering option for many. If you have thin legs, consider a more tailored shorts silhouette!

2. Say no to the camel toe! Size up or opt for a higher rise if your shorts are pulling at your back or front.

3. Pay attention to the pockets. Size properly so your pockets aren’t pulling! When purchasing light colored or linen shorts, check if you can see the pocket bag through your shorts. You can always get the pocket bag removed and hole closed if you otherwise love the fit of your shorts.

4. Elongate your silhouette. It’s easy to look “cut off” with shorts silhouettes! Try wearing monochrome, sticking to non-contrast accessories and keeping your shoe silhouette open with heeled sandals or flats help to keep your ensemble lengthening and slimming from head to toe.

5. Fitted on the top, volume on the bottom. A great way to keep balance within your outfit is to wear fitted pieces on top to counteract the volume of longer shorts. Consider pieces like trending tube tops, corset tops, bodysuits and cropped vests!

Want a personalized summer wardrobe for work, vacation, going out and more? Check out Meg Gallagher‘s womens styling services here:

Why Longer Shorts for Women Are So Flattering

Long shorts ideally not only hit at the thinnest part of your leg, but they also have a voluminous opening; Creating the flattering illusion of long, slender legs!  

What are long shorts called? You may see them labelled as Bermuda shorts, long shorts, mid-thigh shorts or capris. Butterfly and a-line cuts also sometimes offer the appearance of a longer or more voluminous length.

How to Style Long Shorts in 2024: Try the Monochrome Look

Keep your shorts look polished, cohesive and ultra-flattering by color matching your tops and bottoms. This creates a slimming/lengthening effect in your outfit that allows your shorts look to be an easier wear.

Avoid breaking up your outfit with harsh contrast belts and accessories by sticking to only light, medium or dark color families within your outfit.

Long Shorts Outfits & Ideas:

The Two-Piece Set: Pair Long Shorts with a Vest

We love this ultra-modern summer two-piece set look as a fresh alternative to tank tops and t-shirts for brunch, vacation and daytime outings! Dress the look up with heeled sandals, or go casual with flats or sneakers. Even better – extend the wearability of your vest & trouser set by mixing and matching your pieces! Vests also look great with skirts and jeans, while your shorts will pair perfectly with button ups, tees and tank tops.

The Ultra-Casual Look: Long Shorts with Tees, Tanks and Button Ups

Break out your easy linen button ups, tees and tanks to pair with breezy long shorts and flat sandals, Birkenstocks or sneakers for an ultra-casual summer look.

The Polished Look: Matching Blazer and Long Shorts for Casual Workwear or Chic Travel Looks

We love this classy shorts outfit! Long shorts with a matching blazer is a great option for summer work looks in casual and creative office spaces, as well as a comfortable and chic outfit idea for days out and vacation.

A Going Out Look: Corset Tops with Long Shorts

The form-fitting snatched silhouette of a corset top pairs perfectly with the volume of long shorts for a fun and flirty going out look! Pair this look with heels or heeled sandals and a mini bag.

Top off Your Look with Summer Layering

Dress up your look with summer-friendly top layers like linen button ups, denim jackets, thin trenches or linen blazers!

The Long Shorts Stylist Edit

Why we’re highlighting Aritzia: It’s great for all ages, professions & demographics! Aritzia’s pieces have a high styling capacity, are size inclusive (Great for petites, curvy and tall), the fabrics are resilient and easy to maintain, and they’re priced appropriately for trend.
Shop our edit of favorite summer pieces for long shorts outfits below.

A note on sizing: THE EFFORTLESS™ PIECES TEND TO RUN SMALL IN THE WAIST. If you are between sizes, size up!

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