6 Elevated Ways I'm Styling Shorts This Summer

I'll admit I have a complicated relationship with shorts. I'm on the shorter side at 5'2", so there are times when I'm a huge fan. The more of my legs I can show, the more I can pull off the illusion that they're long. When I get dressed, however, I find myself almost never reaching for a pair of shorts. This summer, I have gotten bored with just wearing dresses and skirts on repeat and decided that it was time to step it up when it comes to my summer outfit styling by throwing a few shorts outfits into the mix. I headed to Instagram and TikTok to hunt for styling inspiration and found six outfits incorporating shorts that are so elevated and chic that I'm actually dying for the opportunity to re-create them. From the perfect way to style shorts for an event to a casual way to wear shorts on the weekends, these six looks check all my boxes.

Keep scrolling to see all of the shorts styling inspo I'm loving lately.

Frilly Shorts + Tank + Raffia Bag

There is something so cottagecore and sweet about a pair of frilly little shorts. I love how Emma styled them with a classic white tank and a raffia bag. It just screams European summer. This look is begging to be worn to a farmers market. 

Matching Shorts Set

What's more adorable than a little matching set involving a great pair of shorts? If you can find a set with a matching set and a cardigan, then that's even better. When styling shorts in an elevated way, the matching set is a foolproof way to do it. So chic. 

White Shorts + Striped Top

Here's the classic old-money way to wear a pair of shorts. This look screams, "I just got back from the Hamptons." Grab your favorite striped tee, tank, or sweater and pair it with some white shorts—voilà, you're in your Meredith Blake era. 

White Blouse + Short Shorts + Sunnies

When it comes to elevated ways to wear shorts, this look immediately comes to mind. The volume of a white blouse paired with short shorts feels so fashionable. The combination of black and white is also oh so chic. 

Shorts + Tank + Cardigan

This is the quiet-luxury way to wear shorts. The longer length makes them super appropriate for daytime or, dare I say, the office. Depending on your dress code, you may be able to get away with it. I'm loving the slightly preppy aura this look has. 

Tank Top + Sneakers + Gold Jewlery

I'll be wearing this look on weekends to the farmers market or to run errands. There is something so laid-back about a shorts-and-tank outfit, so adding the gold jewelry takes things up a notch. 

Next up, My Goal Is to Look Parisian on a $100 Budget—33 H&M Finds That Have My Attention