From Jane Birkin to Charlotte Gainsbourg, every French woman knows that an impeccable pair of jeans is a must in any well-edited wardrobe. But when it comes to pinpointing the exact style of French jeans worn by the chicest dressers from Biarritz to Marseille, they're imbued with this sort of je ne sais quoi that makes them so covetable.

Not quite a stovepipe jean, not quite a skinny jean, French jeans are this hybrid style that falls straight down the thigh, tapers at the ankle, but looks as straight and as a Vogue Slim cigarette. Still, if there is one thing that we're all in agreement on, it's the chic shoes to wear with French jeans.

You could say that it's possible to wear any shoe with a pair of French jeans. Whilst that's technically true, I find not every footwear style is a perfect match. Though it's sometimes difficult to put into words why a certain pair of shoes doesn't work well with a certain pair of denim, you can intuitively feel that something is off.

As an American hailing from the land of Levi's 501s, I know my way around a good pair of jeans and how to wear them. That said, I'm obsessed with the French girl jeans outfits, which never fail to elevate denim in a way that's so sophisticated it makes me wonder how jeans were ever considered a casual staple in the first place.

As torchbearers of creating excellent European outfits with jeans and a very specific and ultra-popular denim style, French women are helpful teachers in finding the right shoe pairing for them. As previously mentioned, these jeans are form-fitting throughout the leg and usually have less volume than a standard straight-leg jean. They're chic and, as these tastemakers have proven, they're timeless when you have concrete shoe pairings in the back of your mind.

As for the shoes? There's nothing here that'll shock you, but what's revelatory is just how inimitable and reliable a classic pairing is. From loafers to leather boots to ballet flats, the key is often a sleek profile that doesn't interfere with the crisp cut of the jeans. So let's immerse ourselves in the best jeans and shoe outfit pairings that French women have defined and worn best throughout 2026 (and will certainly do so into next year).

5 Best Shoes to Wear with French Jeans in 2026

1. Ballet Flats

Style Notes: As ballet flats have made their way back into the sartorial narrative, French women were quick to show us how to wear them in a way that felt less dated and more timeless. (No 2010s cosplay here!) Though we might attribute their return to Miu Miu's autumn/winter 2022 show, ballet flats have been worn by French women for decades, from Chanel's first pair in 1984 to the Repetto pumps that Parisians are constantly wearing on repeat in 2026. This combination is classic, with the softness of the dance-inspired shoe adding a gentle touch to the otherwise utilitarian and workwear staple that is denim

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2. Loafers

Style Notes: No transitional capsule wardrobe is complete without jeans or loafers, and French denim looks specifically superb when pairing them together. Loafers are always sophisticated, whether you love gathered loafers or a classic black pair. With such a stylish yet minimal combination, you can introduce a statement element for a little more personality. Animal print jackets, flowy peasant blouses, striped tops and skinny scarves are all excellent options.

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3. Trainers

Style Notes: Trainers and jeans are always a lovely match, but with straight and skinny styles of jeans, not every sneaker is best. Opt for a low-profile trainer, endlessly adored by French women, which won't fight for attention or look too bulky alongside straight-leg jeans. With a slouchy jumper and woven bag, you have all your essentials for the chicest transitional uniform.

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4. Boots

Style Notes: Another one of the best shoes to wear with French jeans is boots. Cold weather days always demand a pair of boots; I'd be remiss not to mention this exceptional pairing. When you have a sleek pair of jeans and boots, I always appreciate adding a bit more volume with my top and outerwear, which Paris-based creative director Anne-Laure Mais has done here. With a cool leather jacket, you get a simple outfit for your rotation that feels anything but.

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5. Kitten Heels

Style Notes: For a more sophisticated take on denim, chic kitten heels are an excellent pairing. The low heel and open top (and any thin straps) don't get in the way of the hem and frame your foot in the most elevated way—which contrasts superbly against the laid-back look of jeans. Kitten heels have been a long-running shoe rack staple for fashionable French women for decades, and it's clear to see why.

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If you want to know what 20-something It girls are wearing right now, the answer is simple: shorts. From denim cutoffs to micro sporty styles, young fashion lovers are embracing the style—and for good reason: it is still peak summer. But even if your mind has already shifted to fall wardrobe planning, shorts can easily stay in your rotation. Insiders are already showing us how to seamlessly transition them into the upcoming season, starting with two key flat-shoe trends: loafers and moto boots.

These two styles are closely associated with fall dressing, but they are also completely timeless, which is why chic dressers like Olivia Jade and Lila Moss are leaning into them right now.

This week while in NYC, Jade was spotted wearing a casual yet polished look that consisted of blue drawstring shorts, a black T-shirt, and black loafers. For accessories she chose an oversized shoulder bag and low-ankle socks. Also in the city this week Lila Moss was seen wearing shorts but a distressed denim pair that she styled with a low-scoop white tank top and mid-calf moto boots. She completed the ensemble with a leather belt and shoulder bag.

Whether you take inspiration from Jade or Moss when it comes to styling your shorts from now until fall you can't go wrong. Both loafers and moto boots will instantly give your bottoms a more considered, editorial finish and add just the right amount of fall attitude without feeling seasonally premature.

Inspired to shop? Keep scrolling to discover the best loafers and moto boots on the market right now.

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Few shoes are as synonymous with fall as women's loafers. Every year, without fail, these flats take center stage as the season's most-discussed footwear. No matter one's aesthetic or budget, finding the It style or the classic pair is a top priority.

If you're curious which specific loafers fashion insiders will covet in the coming months, you don't have to wait any longer to find out. Trendsetters are already stepping out in what will be fall 2026's most popular and chicest flats: the Khaite Colt Loafers.

On Sarah Pidgeon: Khaite Astor Dress ($2100), Colt Loafers ($1180)

It's still summer, but the fall-ready flats were recently seen on Sarah Pidgeon in NYC. She styled them elegantly with a gray Khaite minidress and a black leather shoulder bag. NYC fashion editors and creators are also adopting the loafers, pairing them with everything from tailored trousers and tank tops to relaxed denim and classic white T-shirts.

What sets the Colt apart is its unique hybrid design, blending elements of a ballet flat, a pump, and a traditional loafer. It features a sleek, structured shape with a slightly pointed toe and a polished patent leather finish in timeless tones like black and burgundy. If you want to look in-the-know and buy the It loafer style before they sell out, this is your chance. Keep scrolling to shop Khaite's Colt Loafers, and while you're at it, discover other chic loafers for fall.

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Fall is right around the corner, and fashion people everywhere are discussing what their top autumnal wardrobe picks might be. While I love a trendy moment as much as the next style enthusiast, many in the fashion set lean on timeless staples that have staying power when updating their closets. There are three specific fall fashion items that I notice every fashion person either already owns or plans to buy in the next couple of months. Enter dark-wash jeans, suede handbags, and loafers.

Since I spend hours digging through the online retail landscape, I've decided to highlight shopping recommendations for each item. You can expect a range of affordable price points with the occasional luxury item squirreled into the bunch. Top brands such as Levi's, Tony Bianco, The Row, and DeMellier make an appearance—among many others. Keep scrolling to uncover your soon-to-be favorite wardrobe items.

Dark-Wash Denim

It's time to update your denim rotation for fall. While I'm a big believer in wearing any wash you please all year long, there's no denying the staying power of sophisticated dark-wash jeans.

Suede Handbags

Rich textures and the fall season go hand in hand. A warm, chocolatey suede handbag is an anti-trend fall pick that you'll utilize for many years to come. Whether you're into a large tote, medium-sized shoulder bag, or even an east-west style, I've got you covered with a slew of beautiful options ripe for the taking.

Loafers

Loafers are timeless and truly never go out of style. Currently, a sleek, classic-looking silhouette is trending, and The Row's loafers are really leading the charge in terms of what aesthetic fashion people are coveting for their fall shoe rotation. If a luxury pair is out of your budget, many brands are making high-quality alternatives that are excellent options.

Fall is one of my favorite seasons to dress for. While I'm not ready to part with summer just yet, I can't say I'm not excited. I've even started making wardrobe preparations for the season transition, and Nordstrom is always my go-to for a closet refresh. This summer, we saw lace-trim detailing, linen trousers, and toe-ring sandals, but what are their fall equivalents? Well, don't worry. I spent all morning finding the summer-to-fall closet swaps that exude the same style and attitude.

Scroll on to shop my list of summer pieces that need to be retired and their chic, fall-coded replacements—all from Nordstrom, of course.

7 Chic Nordstrom Summer-to-Fall Closet Swaps

Retire: Linen Trousers

Swap: Satin Pants

Satin pants are my fall swap for the linen trousers that have been everywhere this summer. This $80 Open Edit pair is how I plan to look rich and lavish come September.

Retire: Toe-Ring Sandals

Swap: Ruched Loafers

I'm not prepared to give up open-toed sandals, but all of the chic loafers at Nordstrom have convinced me, especially the ruched leather and suede versions.

Retire: Short-Sleeve Crewneck

Swap: Long-Sleeve Crewneck

The long-sleeve T-shirt is an effortless swap that will instantly enhance your wardrobe. It's simple, easy, and probably already in your closet. The oversize long-sleeves have an element of nonchalance, but the shirt itself is equally as versatile as its short-sleeve companion.

Retire: Baggy Low-Rise Denim

Swap: Straight-Leg Jeans

Put aside the baggy low-rise jeans until next summer and switch to an elegant, well-tailored pair of straight-leg jeans this fall. They look absolutely beautiful styled with a crisp white button-down and slingback heels.

Retire: Lace-Trim Shorts

Swap: Lace-Trim Skirt

This swap makes total sense to me. You can extend the life of the lace-trim trend with a lace-trim midi skirt. Now, I'm not saying your lace-trim shorts need to be retired for an entire season (you can pair them with a heavyweight knit or rugby polo), but if you're looking for more coverage, try any of the skirts below.

Retire: Windbreaker

Swap: Cashmere Cardigan

As the weather shifts from summer heat to fall winds, a lightweight cashmere cardigan is all you need. Simply tie it around your waist or over your shoulders, and you're ready to receive compliments.

Retire: Polka Dots

Swap: Animal Print

Nothing feels more fall coded than animal-print flats and shoulder bags. Swapping out polka dots for an equally eye-catching print is an easy way to transition your summer wardrobe to fall.

Between overly sweaty commutes to work and balmy evenings out with friends, I’ve practically been living in my midi dresses and sandals to see me through what feels like never-ending heatwaves here in the UK.

But as we slowly move out of summer and into the transitional period, might I suggest a specific trouser-and-shoe pairing that feels particularly polished and can be worn from now well into the autumn season? Enter the black trousers and minimal loafers combo. And if you know anything about my own personal style, then it will come as no surprise that I was inspired to try out this elegant formula by the chicest over-50s.

Spotted out in Beverly Hills, Angelina Jolie swapped out the classic dress and sandal pairing that we typically see in summer for a refined all-black outfit. Featuring a black chunky knit jumper, tailored trousers, minimal leather loafers and a slouchy tote, this outfit formula has majorly inspired both my office and off-duty wardrobe for the upcoming autumn season. Unlike brighter summer hues that often require extra effort to style and care for, black makes dressing feel as effortless as it looks chic.

Not only does the combination bring a much more put-together edge than your dress and sandals will, but you’ll be grateful for the longer trousers and fully-covered loafers as the temperatures start to drop. And the best part? The timeless nature of this pairing means that it can be replicated in any fabric, no matter the weather. Me personally? I’ll be throwing on a pair of tailored linen trousers and suede loafers now, before swapping these out for wool and leather, respectively, when it gets cold.

Just as easy to throw on as any dress and sandals pairing, but bringing a sophisticated look to any autumn outfit, the black trousers and loafers combination is arguably one of the smartest wardrobe additions you can make this season. Keep scrolling to shop the best styles to invest in for autumn 2026 and beyond.

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My fashion-editor faux pas is that I don't own high heels. Living in New York, where I walk a lot, I'm against willingly signing up for foot pain. Even when I go to weddings and fancier events, I love kitten heels.

My shoe-shopping rule of thumb is filtering for options with a heel height of two inches or under, and since I'm not much of a sneaker person, this means relying on comfortable yet chic styles like ballet flats, knee-high boots, loafers, and Mary Janes. Kitten-heel sandals are my spring and summer staple, while low-heel pumps are a go-to for fall when it gets chilly (and as far into winter as I can get before it becomes impractical).

With the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale going on for just a few more days, I decided to browse the selection for shoes with heels that are two inches and under. Ahead, shop the discounted pairs that stood out, including Vagabond Mary Janes, Margaux knee-high boots, Tory Burch loafers, and more.

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Ballet Flats

Kitten-Heel Sandals

Knee-High Boots

Loafers

Low-Heel Pumps

Mary Janes

It's officially that time of year. The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is here, offering deep discounts on a range of high-quality items. As a shopping editor, I've spent a considerable amount of time scouring all the amazing deals available during the sale. In particular, I've noticed amazing flat-shoe deals. If you're in the market for a new pair or two, I've got you covered. Ahead, I'm listing my top flat-shoe shopping recommendations to make tapping into these Nordstrom deals as seamless as possible.

In my curation, you can find a mix of trendy and classic footwear styles. I've included chic loafers, sleek slingbacks, and pretty ballet flats—not to mention the occasional mule silhouette. Top styles from amazing brands like Vince, Reformation, Sam Edelman, Franco Sarto, and many more will be represented. Keep scrolling to unlock your new favorite flat shoes for the months to come.

Shop the Best Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Flat-Shoe Deals

Earlier this year, I made the decision to curb my shopping by setting a spending limit on trendy purchases so I don't end up with a closet full of individual pieces that I struggle to style together and so I can actually save up for worthwhile wardrobe investments that will ideally outlast trends and outsmart the seasons. I'm more interested than ever before in building a wardrobe that's timeless and trend-agnostic and, most importantly, feels like me.

I know I'm not the only one feeling this way, either. Trend fatigue feels like it's at an all-time high, and I think the answer to this exhaustion lies in a "fewer but better" mindset. With that, I've curated my list of the eight highly specific items that I think are worthy of the investment. They're cool, they're classic, and they're ultimately made to last. From ribbed socks and rigid denim to organic cotton tees and handcrafted leather belts, each of these closet staples could very well become the only ones you ever need to own.

1. Flore Flore Tees + Tanks

There's a reason this French label is where every fashion editor buys their basics. The cotton is heavier and denser than what you'll find elsewhere, so the shape holds up wear after wear. Once you own one of the popular styles, like the Car T-Shirt or Kendall Jenner–beloved Esmé Tank, you'll wonder why you ever settled for anything flimsier.

2. Khaite Danielle Jeans

The Danielle has reached bona fide cult-classic status for good reason: The cut is flattering on different body types, and the denim has just enough structure to hold its shape without feeling stiff. Yes, the price tag is steep, but the cost-per-wear math works out fast when the jeans become part of your everyday uniform.

3. Saint Laurent Loafers

There are loafers, and then there are Saint Laurent loafers. The ruched silhouette is sleek but forward, and the gold logo is just subtle enough to still fly under the radar. I'd go for the smooth black leather, but the eel and ostrich-printed iterations are also undeniably luxe. These are shoes that age gracefully, making them a multiyear, if not multi-decade, investment.

4. Déhanche Belts

A good belt is one of the few pieces that immediately ties an outfit together, so in my mind, it's a piece worth investing in for a long-term wardrobe. Déhanche has become the insider's answer to the accessories category. With its vintage-inspired hardware and supple leather, the brand marries quality with silhouettes, colors, and finishes that are just a tick more stylish than your average belt. I have a few of them myself and always come back to the Hollyhock and Louison styles.

5. Vince Bias-Cut Satin Pants

I hate to say it, but not all satin pants are created equal. Bias-cut pieces are especially hard to get right, and after spending some time trying on styles from all the top brands, the Vince pair is far and away my favorite pick. For me, it's the way the elastic waistband is hidden, so from the front, all you see is one smooth flow of fabric down to the hem, and the satin has enough weight to drape beautifully. I don't say this often, but they're worthy of buying in every color.

6. The Anteros Shirting

The Anteros has built its reputation on doing one thing exceptionally well: the button-down shirt. The brand is rooted in shirting that feels chic and elevated but still timeless and versatile. The pieces are all cut from crisp Italian cotton and have become favorites among insiders and WWW editors alike.

7. Éterne Sweaters

Cashmere sweaters come at such a wide range of price points that it feels impossible to know what's really worth it. Let me just say Éterne absolutely is. The knits look and feel on par with their price tags, and speaking from experience, they hold up very well over time. The silhouettes are pared back and considered, and they look just as good on their own as they do layered. Styles like the Francis are thin but so warm.

8. Comme Si Socks

It might seem indulgent to spend real money on socks, but Comme Si makes a compelling case for quality that's worth spending on. The brand uses Italian mercerized cotton that's noticeably softer and more durable than a basic multipack, holding its shape and elasticity through hundreds of wears and washes. Plus, the ribbed texture looks chic with a pair of loafers, and the color range is virtually endless.

My friends are always looking to me for advice on what to buy. Basically, I'm their personal stylist, and I'm responsible for keeping their closets up-to-date with all the latest trends. To tell the truth, I love it, as I get to put my fashion expertise to use. Plus, with the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2026 starting July 18, I've got plenty of recommendations—chunky beaded necklaces, lace-trim camisoles, zebra-print kitten heels, silk scarves, cropped trench coats, slim-straight jeans, jelly mules, two-tone earrings, cashmere crewnecks… I can keep going. Heard enough?

Well, don't worry. I put together a curated list of everything trend-forward from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale that's worth shopping, and they're all pieces I have or would recommend to a friend. Think designer-looking handbags, oversize sunglasses, satin shorts, and so much more. Scroll on to shop these discounted gems.

Shop Trend-Forward Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2026 Items

If you're catching a flight this summer and on the hunt for chic airport outfit inspiration, there's no better place to look than the celebrity set. Whether travelling for meetings, runway shows, weddings, or just pleasure, A-listers are constantly on the go, so it goes without saying that they have travel outfits down to a science. And this season, their looks are anything but basic or "boring."

Gigi Hadid's recent travel outfit is the perfect example. Skipping the expected trainers and leggings, Hadid was spotted at JFK Airport wearing suede loafers with drawstring trousers. This trouser style, whether crafted from silk, cotton poplin, or linen, is dominating the fashion zeitgeist right now because it allows anyone to look elegant and put together in an effortless, carefree way. And while they can be paired with a sweatshirt for lounging around the house, they can also be elevated when styled correctly, like with classic loafers.

On Gigi Hadid: Miu Miu Vivant Bag (£2650); Tory Burch Ballet Double-T Suede Loafers (£165); Guest in Residence Layered Cotton-Cashmere Tee (£255); Rimowa suitcase

Creating a comfortable yet forward look, Hadid styled her trouser-and-flats combination with a short-sleeve tee over a long-sleeve one, the '90s-inspired styling technique that is having a revival. To complete the look, she opted for a baseball cap, retro sunglasses and a Miu Miu bowler bag.

Instead of overthinking my travel outfits, I plan to now rely on Hadid's easy two-piece formula and re-create it throughout the season. If you want to, too, keep scrolling because I've rounded up the best drawstring pants and suede loafers on the market right now.

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Given that summer and skirts go hand in hand, I thought it was a good time to discuss a key skirt trend to wear and the shoes to pair with it. People have officially traded their full midi skirts for a skirt trend that's far sleeker and deliciously '90s-inspired: knee-length pencil skirts. They're everywhere right now, and the most well-dressed celebrities among us are fully on board. The most viral iteration of the trend is knee-length skirts in taffeta or satin. And that's exactly what Olivia Wilde just wore for a promotional appearance in London.

If you're sick of sandals and are seeking shoes that increase the elegance of your outfits, you'll be pleased to know that instead of the inescapable flip-flops, Wilde paired her navy taffeta-esque knee-length skirt with a pair of ruched loafers. Sure, it's a flat-shoe trend you may associate more with fall and winter, but when paired with the right pieces (such as her skirt), it works just as well in the summer. Keep scrolling to see the undisputed proof for yourself.

The Skirt + Shoes on Olivia Wilde

On Olivia Wilde: Saint Laurent Mica Sunglasses ($495); Liffner Leather Clutch ($475); Reformation Ani Ruched Loafers ($278)

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If you're catching a flight this summer and on the hunt for chic airport outfit inspiration, there's no better place to look than the celebrity set. Whether traveling for meetings, runway shows, weddings, or just pleasure, A-listers are constantly on the go, so it goes without saying that they have travel outfits down to a science. And this season, their looks are anything but basic or "boring."

Gigi Hadid's recent travel outfit is the perfect example. Skipping the expected sneakers and leggings, Hadid was spotted at JFK Airport wearing suede loafers with drawstring pants. This pant style, whether crafted from silk, cotton poplin, or linen, is dominating the fashion zeitgeist right now because it allows anyone to look elegant and put together in an effortless, carefree way. And while they can be paired with a sweatshirt for lounging around the house, they can also be elevated when styled correctly, like with classic loafers.

On Gigi Hadid: Miu Miu Vivant Bag ($3900); Tory Burch Ballet Double-T Suede Loafers ($150); Guest in Residence Layered Cotton-Cashmere Tee ($265); Rimowa suitcase

Creating a comfortable yet forward look, Hadid styled her pants-and-flats combination with a short-sleeve tee over a long-sleeve one, the '90s-inspired styling technique that is having a revival. To complete the look, she opted for a baseball cap, retro sunglasses, and a Miu Miu bowler bag.

Instead of overthinking my travel outfits, I plan to now rely on Hadid's easy two-piece formula and re-create it throughout the season. If you want to, too, keep scrolling because I've rounded up the best drawstring pants and suede loafers on the market right now.

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I'll give you one guess as to which skirt trend this piece is about. If a lace-trimmed slip skirt came to mind, I'm happy to report that you're correct. The pretty trend became inescapable last year and is still strong this summer, but given the lifespan of the trend, it's only natural that you may be looking for new ways to wear it, to keep things fresh, and I just found one for you.

One of the many stylish owners of at least one lace-trimmed slip skirt is Olivia Wilde, who recently wore a white midi-length iteration from Aritzia for a night out in NYC. But instead of the typical styling of the trend (with a T-shirt or tank and kitten-heel mules), she went with different pieces, and I was especially intrigued by her choice of shoes. On top, Wilde wore a sheer white button-down of a black bralette. And on her feet were a pair of black loafers. Perhaps not the obvious shoe style to wear with the summery skirt trend, but that's what I like about it. The unexpectedness of the loafers made the acutely popular skirt style look new again. Keep scrolling to see for yourself and to shop the cool outfit combination.

The Lace-Trimmed Skirt Outfit on Olivia Wilde

On Olivia Wilde: Aritzia Wilfred Henrietta Satin Skirt ($148); The Row Large Cecily Top Handle Tote Bag ($2675); Ray-Ban Mega Wayfarer Sunglasses ($202)

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Athletic shorts may have been designed for practicality for athletes, but in 2026, they have emerged as a fashion statement among the style set. These shorts, whether colourful track styles or neutral versions made from performance fabrics, pair well with other sporty items like sports bras and running sneakers. However, to keep them feeling fresh for 2026, it's all about the styling. One elegant way to do this is to take inspiration from Olivia Wilde's recent outfit.

Stepping out this weekend in L.A., Wilde confirmed the athletic shorts trend, styling a red pair with an elegant shoe trend. Instead of opting for trainers, which might have seemed the most sensible option, she chose classic loafers, creating an intentional and unexpectedly cool outfit that feels perfectly suited to summer 2026.

To finish, Wilde styled her look with retro, sporty, and menswear-inspired pieces. She layered on an oversize stripe button-down shirt, a baseball cap, and micro crew socks. The muted hues of her shirt and hat grounded the look, making the red shorts not seem too bold.

Feeling inspired to invest in the athletic shorts trend? Scroll down to shop the chicest styles and the best loafers to pair with them.

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