Every summer, my wardrobe quietly shifts into “shorts mode.” Long trousers start to feel heavy and cumbersome, and while skirts are light and flowy, they just can’t beat the sharp, effortless cool of a pair of shorts. Comfortable and versatile, shorts are my go-to for everything from workdays to holidays, from city strolls to seaside adventures—they’ve become the most reliable staple of my summer style.
But finding the perfect pair of shorts isn’t as easy as it sounds. Especially for women, details like length, silhouette, fabric, and even the cuff design all convey different style messages. A high-waisted A-line short can make your legs look endlessly long, while an ill-fitted pair of denim cutoffs can throw your proportions off and make you feel stiff and self-conscious. Shorts may appear simple, but they demand serious consideration in terms of fit, proportion, aesthetics, and style. They’re one of the most detail-sensitive pieces in a summer wardrobe.
I. Shorts Are a Declaration of Summer Freedom
Shorts and summer go together like iced drinks and refrigerators—a natural pairing. They offer more than just physical relief from the heat; they deliver a feeling of lightness and ease. For me, slipping into a pair of shorts signals the start of vacation mode.
Especially when walking along the southern coast of France or on the cobblestone streets of a mountain town in Italy, everything—the sun, the breeze, the plants, the gravel paths—tells you it’s time to unwind. In such a setting, long pants feel excessive, while shorts feel just right: not too flashy, not too revealing, but clean and stylish.
That feeling of freedom is exactly why I love shorts so much. They don’t just liberate the body—they unburden the mind. Shorts help me shift out of a tight, structured rhythm and into a state that feels more natural, more true to myself.
II. The Style of Shorts Reflects Your Mood
The world of shorts is much more diverse than just “short shorts” and “Bermuda shorts.” It’s a universe of precise tailoring that tells deeper stories about fashion and body language. Here are some of my favorite and most-worn styles from my closet:
1. High-Waisted A-Line Shorts
These are the most flattering for many body types, especially for those with wider hips or fuller thighs. The A-line cut offers space around the thighs, while the high waist elongates the legs. I wear these most often in the city, pairing them with cropped tops or crisp shirts for a clean and effortlessly French look.
2. Relaxed Utility Shorts
Leaning into a more gender-neutral vibe, these shorts usually feature pockets and thicker fabrics. I love wearing them to weekend markets, art galleries, or light hiking trips. When paired with a tank top and canvas sneakers, they channel a retro explorer vibe that’s fun and functional.
3. Denim Cutoffs
A timeless classic—but also the most demanding in terms of fit. If your thighs aren’t as toned, opt for versions with a bit of stretch and a straight-leg cut instead of skin-tight fits. Denim shorts always make me think of California summers, summer camps, and outdoor music festivals—messy, youthful, and beautifully chaotic.
4. Tailored Shorts
This style has gained popularity in recent years, especially for office or commuter looks. Often paired with a matching blazer, tailored shorts offer a sharp yet individualistic aesthetic. In summer, I swap my regular suit pants for these and wear them with loafers or mules—a go-to for my “urban cool” style.
5. Drawstring Linen Shorts
Linen is the soul fabric of summer, and drawstrings add a touch of relaxed elegance. These are perfect for balconies, cafés, or vacation terraces. Pair them with a loose tee and it feels like melting into the sunlight.
III. Fabric Is the Soul of Every Pair of Shorts
Even the best cut won’t shine if the fabric isn’t right. Especially in Europe, where summer can swing between hot days and cool evenings, fabric choice becomes critical.
- Denim: A versatile go-to, but look for versions with some stretch. Rigid denim works well for structured looks.
- Linen: Breathable and natural, though prone to wrinkles. I rotate between white and light beige options.
- Cotton poplin or twill: Ideal for utility or tailored shorts; crisp and non-clingy.
- Satin or modal blends: For more elegant occasions like dinners or dates, opt for soft fabrics with a natural sheen.
I particularly enjoy wearing natural fabrics when traveling through Southern Italy or small towns in Spain. They harmonize beautifully with the sunlight, the breeze, and the natural surroundings—an aesthetic and lifestyle match made in heaven.
IV. Styling Shorts Is an Extension of Attitude
Though shorts take up little space physically, their styling possibilities are vast. Each combination can evoke a different energy:
- Shorts + Oversized Shirt: A chic contrast—great for more modest moments.
- Shorts + Crop Top: My favorite for beach bars or night markets—comfortable and a little sexy.
- Shorts + Blazer: A striking high-low combo, ideal for city looks.
- Shorts + Flat Sandals or Sporty Sandals: The ultimate summer comfort pairing.
- Shorts + Knee-High Boots or Loafers: A bold mix that’s great for vintage-inspired or editorial looks.
In terms of color, I rarely go for overly bright tones unless I’m on vacation or shooting content. Neutrals like white, beige, navy, olive green, and deep brown allow the tailoring to shine and make it easier to mix and match with other wardrobe pieces.
V. My Favorite Shorts (With Shopping Platform Suggestions)
Over the years, I’ve tried dozens of shorts from different brands. Here are some I keep returning to, available on convenient platforms:
1. Levi’s Denim Shorts (Available on Amazon)
Levi’s remains a solid name in denim. Their 501 line has classic cuts and tasteful fading—a foolproof basic to anchor any summer look.
2. Arket Linen Drawstring Shorts (Available on Arket’s Website or European Stores)
Arket delivers consistent quality, especially in their linen range. These shorts are soft, airy, and perfect for slow city mornings.
3. COS Tailored Shorts (Available on COS Website or In-Store)
Minimalist and sharp, COS’s tailored shorts are ideal for those seeking a refined yet relaxed summer aesthetic.
VI. Shorts and the Politics of the Body
Shorts are a very “honest” item of clothing. When you wear them, you’re revealing your legs, your proportions, your body shape. That’s why many people feel both drawn to and intimidated by them.
I wasn’t always confident myself. For a long time, I thought my legs weren’t perfect—my knees stuck out too much, my skin tone wasn’t even. But over time, I realized that naturalness is the foundation of true style. Summer shouldn’t be about hiding—it should be about making peace with your body. Wearing shorts became a way of letting go of perfectionism and embracing my body just as it is.
Sometimes, a single pair of well-fitting shorts made me fall in love with my own legs again. It’s a genuine sense of ease from within.
VII. Shorts as a Reflection of Lifestyle, Not Just Fashion
Shorts aren’t just about looking cute. They express a mood—freedom, spontaneity, movement, and authenticity.
In my most relaxed moments—morning coffee on the balcony, warm nights in the square, hiking up a stone stairway—I’m always in shorts. They follow the body, but also move with the rhythm of daily life.
