The Fashion Crowd Has Spoken—5 Shoe Styles That Look the Chicest With Shorts
With the weather heating up, it’s time to evaluate your shorts drawer. Longline shorts and baggier silhouettes are definitely trending with the fashion crowd, as are classic paperbag-waist shorts, denim shorts, and co-ord shorts sets. To elevate said shorts and make them feel more fashion-forward, shoes are the perfect addition. A simple T-shirt and denim shorts can be upgraded with a pair of slingback kitten heels or chunky flatforms.
For outfit inspiration, I’ve evaluated the top five shoe styles fashion people are pairing with their shorts. Shop some of the leading styles in each of these categories below and prepare for a shoe shelf update.
Slingback Heels
Slingback heels are a trending style right now and an unexpected choice to pair with shorts but very chic. A lower heel height feels refined and a luxe bag can finish off the look.
Strappy Heels
Super-strappy sandals are another style that is very hot this season. A minimal, sophisticated pair feels elegant with a long pair of shorts. Plus, these heels will go very far in your spring and summer closet.
Wedges
Wedge heels are definitely in their moment, and whether in lucite versions, sculptural heels, or the quintessential ’90s silhouette, expect to see these all over this warm-weather season. Style them with adorable co-ord short sets, longline shorts, and baggy "jorts.” Another option I can get behind for comfort.
Sneakers
Sneakers are by far my choice footwear for any season or ensemble. So paper-bag-waist shorts, tube socks, and sneakers are the ideal bottom half for all warm-weather outfits. All of your favorite brands have reinvented their staple styles as well as releasing exciting new styles.
Flatform Sandals
Chunky flatforms are a choice trend of my own due to comfort, so I’m thrilled to see them styled in versatile ways this summer. Pop on a thick-soled platform with any look and opt for color for a bright accent.
Next: I Only Wear Jeans With Other Basics—These Outfits Are Amazing
Copelyn is a freelance fashion and accessory editor who formerly worked for Who What Wear as an associate shopping editor. Before her time at Who What Wear, Copelyn was at Bustle Digital Group, working on the accessory market for cover shoots and fashion features across Nylon, The Zoe Report, Bustle, Romper, and Elite Daily. Copelyn also previously worked at InStyle and Cosmopolitan in the fashion departments. Copelyn has a journalism degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. In her spare time, she freelances in graphic and web design in the fashion space and loves to upcycle clothing, home décor, and sneakers.
-
I've Lived in NYC, L.A., and Boston—Here's Everything I Think Is Chic for Summer
Shop the highly curated list.
-
Everyone With Good Taste Is Already Wearing These 7 Chic Summer Pieces
These instantly elevate any look.
-
If You're Against Long Shorts, the $53 Nordstrom Pair Olivia Rodrigo Just Wore Is the Opposite Trend
Don't let them sell out.
-
Adam Sandler–Coded Outfits Are Still Going Strong—5 Ways to Style Baggy Shorts This Summer
Fashion icon first. Comedian second.
-
Believe It or Not, This Is the It-Girl Shorts Trend of Summer 2025
Confirmed by Emily Ratajkowski and Hailey Bieber.
-
Linen Pants! Full Skirts! Long Shorts! Zara Has Every Single Chic Bottoms Trend—40 Picks That Are Worth Your Attention
Good luck picking just one.
-
The Controversial Shorts Trend Every Cool Girl Is Wearing This Summer
I'm on board. Are you?
-
Harry Styles Just Paired Short Shorts With the New It Sneaker Color of the Summer
A vibe.