Before we dive in, I want to put it out there that I think fashion "rules" are silly and outdated. We're all past the point of letting anyone else's opinion dictate what we wear or don't wear because, well, style is so personal. That being said, I'm sure you can think of a few fashion mistakes you've been warned of before, whether it be wearing white past Labor Day or mixing gold and silver jewelry. One arbitrary style mistake that has managed to stick with me for years is wearing shorts, especially denim shorts, with boots.
I can't tell you where I first read this tidbit, but it's remained in the recesses of my memory for years now, and I think it's finally time that we do away with it for good. I'm not alone here. Fashion people are styling their shorts with tall and mid-calf boots more than ever this summer, and they're putting the final nail in the coffin for this outfit "mistake." Ahead, see all the cool shorts-with-boots outfits that are popping off on the 'gram right now, and get inspired to dive into the combo yourself.
When Dua Lipa posted this look to her Instagram, I immediately took note of the Daisy Dukes–meets-fashion details like the cutoff shorts, tall Western boots, and, ahem, gingham Miu Miu jacket.
Shop the look:
I'm into this low-key summer vibe with one of the closet staples everyone's loving, a relaxed button-down shirt. The addition of Western boots makes the simple formula really pop.
Shop the look:
Your favorite knee boots from the fall and winter deserve some airtime in the summer, too. Style them with relaxed shorts for a cool take.
Shop the look:
Denim shorts often come off as casual, but these sleek knee boots and this all-black palette look so elevated.
Shop the look:
I realize that suggesting you wear cowboy boots in the heat of summer is a radical thought, but you can't look at this outfit and tell me a different pair of shoes would look better.
Shop the look:
Western boots are an unexpected way to jazz up a casual jean-shorts-and-graphic-tee combo.
Shop the look:
If everyone's favorite It girl Devon Carlson is getting behind the outfit idea, you know it's only a matter of time until more people follow suit.
Shop the look:
While traditional Western boots in neutral tones are pretty timeless, funky color combinations are quickly becoming a favored style among fashion people, and this fun-loving shorts outfit is proof.
Shop the look:
Next up, see the 7 summer items I'm tossing for a wardrobe glow-up and 7 I'm adding.
-
Winter's Just Around the Corner—13 Standout Zara Finds I Predict Will Sell Out Before the End of the MonthAffordable funnel-neck jackets, argyle knits, and rich-looking flats inside.
-
My Stylish 56-Year-Old Mom Is a Picky Shopper—31 Chic Under-$100 Nordstrom Finds She Approves OfCollarless blazers, Fair Isle knits, and Levi's jeans inside.
-
If Chic Jeans-and-Boots Outfits Are the Goal, Don't Miss These Standout Picks From Zara, Madewell, and NordstromBring on a stylish fall-and-winter closet.
-
My Honest Take on the Winter It Boots Every Fashion Person Is Talking AboutFrom Khaite to Free People.
-
Just so You Know, Zara Already Has All the Best Shoes for Winter 2025Shop before they sell out.
-
Of All Her Outfits, *This* Hailey Bieber Look Is Stuck in My BrainAnd I will be re-creating it.
-
Cool Sneakers, Flats, and Boots Are the Vibe—These 36 Styles Are Heavily Discounted for Cyber MondayEverything from Khaite to Ref to Adidas is at least 25% off.
-
If You're Going to Wear a Dress With Ankle Boots, This Is the Trend That Looks the Least DatedPSA via Suki Waterhouse.
