How to Not Look Like Everyone Else When Wearing Lace-Trimmed Shorts in 2026

We have six easy tips to keep in mind.

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Influencers wearing lace-trimmed shorts outfits.
(Image credit: @himichelleli; @cocoschiffer)
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If you've stepped outside at any point over the past year, you're probably aware that lace-trim shorts are very much a thing. Yes, the style is somewhat specific, but that's what makes it special. If you thought the lace-trim-shorts trend peaked last summer, think again. Their popularity hasn't waned, but how people style them is starting to change. Last summer, I saw lace-trimmed shorts paired with a T-shirt or tank and sandals, but for 2026, people are mixing things up a bit more, and I have six outfits to show you that prove it.

Whether made of satin, linen, or poplin, lace-trim shorts can become a viable wardrobe staple in your closet, as they pair well with a variety of items and add a trend-forward touch while functioning as a basic. With a trend this popular, it's easy to just look like everyone else when wearing it, but the six outfits highlighted below will undoubtedly open up your mind to the styling possibilities.

Keep scrolling for some of the most important tips for wearing lace-trimmed shorts this season and to shop chic outfits that include them.

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Pro Tip: Pair Them With a Colorful Tee for Contrast

Sure, you could wear black shorts with a white T-shirt, but wearing colorful shorts with a colorful T-shirt is far more interesting and very appropriate for the season.

Influencer wearing an aqua T-shirt and green satin lace-trim shorts.

(Image credit: @himichelleli)

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Pro Tip: Opt for Polished Basics

Wearing the whimsical shorts trend with something more polished, such as a checked button-down, adds contrast to the shorts and makes them even cooler.

Influencer wearing a button-down shirt, white satin lace-trim shorts, and sandals.

(Image credit: @smythsisters)

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Pro Tip: Dress Them Up With a Long Trench

Who doesn't love the look of a long coat over something short? When that long coat is a lightweight, light-in-color trench, you have the perfect match for lace-trimmed shorts, especially when said shorts are white and made of breezy cotton.

Influencer wearing white lace-trim shorts with a trench coat and flip-flops.

(Image credit: @cocoschiffer)

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Pro Tip: Swap the Sandals for Classic Pumps

Sandals may be the obvious choice when wearing lace-trim shorts, but a classic pair of pumps adds far more elegance to your look.

Influencer wearing a cream cardigan and satin lace-trim shorts.

(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

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Pro Tip: Wear a Track Jacket to Look Like a Fashion Person

Wearing something sporty with something that could pass as sleepwear is cool in every sense of the word. Here's your proof.

Influencer wearing satin lace-trim shorts.

(Image credit: @jeanettemadsen)

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Pro Tip: You Can't Go Wrong With a Cardigan

Instead of a tee, try pairing your shorts with a cardigan. Your outfit will look instantly elevated.

Influencer wearing a cardigan with satin lace-trim shorts.

(Image credit: @fakerstrom)

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Allyson Payer
Allyson Payer
Senior Editor

Allyson is a senior editor for Who What Wear. She joined the company in 2014 as co-founder Katherine Power's executive assistant and over the years has written hundreds of stories for Who What Wear. Prior to her career in fashion, Allyson worked in the entertainment industry at companies such as Sony Pictures Television. Allyson is now based in Raleigh, North Carolina, and is originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She holds a BFA in theater arts. Her path to fashion may not have been linear, but based on the number of fashion magazines she collected as a child and young adult, it was meant to be.