Short Shorts

By: Sharon Mosley

With warm weather wafting our way, shorts are heating up the ocean beaches as well as the city streets. One of the season’s biggest fashion hits, shorts are turning up everywhere and becoming a mainstay in wardrobes all year long.

This summer, the short stuff is anything but basic. From office-worthy culottes and rompers to casual, sassy denim cutoffs, there’s plenty of short shorts out there to choose from — that is if you want to show off your legs — and if you don’t, don’t worry, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy wearing shorts when the weather gets chilly — just team your shorts up with tights!

For a more professional look, belt longer shorts and pair them with a blazer and pumps; for more casual offices, sweaters and flats are great with shorts.

Here’s what’s trending on the short list right now:

—Denim cutoffs. An old favorite — reminiscent of Farrah Fawcett who may have worn them best with her bikini top — these frayed shorts are always a laid-back option for lazy summer days. The more faded and soft the shorts, the better. Check out Levi’s 501 Worn Cut-Offs.

—High-waisted shorts. A glamorous retro style inspired by Hollywood pin-up starlets. Often belted or buttoned up with sailor-front style, these shorts add feminine curves to slim waists. Or go for a high-waisted short with a fold-over waistband, if you want to emphasize your hips. Check out Paul & Joe’s polka-dotted “Reviens” shorts.

—Booty call. These shorts are only for those of us with really, really, really great legs. Often dubbed “booty” shorts or “hot pants,” these very, very short shorts often look almost like bikini bottoms and therefore should probably remain poolside or on the runway — definitely not on the street! Check out the printed floral shorts with matching bustiers from Jason Wu at jasonwustudio.com.

—Soft shorts. There are lots of shorts that look a lot like short skirts. In soft, silky, drapable fabrics, these shorts resemble “tap pants” and are one of the most flattering silhouettes because of their breezy style that moves like a twirling dance skirt. In longer “culotte” styles, they are perfect for casual work places. Check out the “Surf Luxe” version at topshop.com.

—Rompers. This one-piece short set is one of this summer’s most popular looks. In colorful prints, it’s a playful way to dress for the hot weather. Check out the cute prints at American Eagle, ae.com.

—Walking shorts. They’re the classics and the backbone of many summer wardrobes. Whether they’re medium length and tailored or longer Bermuda styles, these shorts are the most versatile in linen or cotton. Check out the easy flat-front styles at J.Jill, jjill.com.

— Textured shorts. Shorts will be on fall fashion’s short list, too. Watch for the short stuff in leather, colored denim and sequins. Then you can pull on the tights and slip into the boots!