There's no denying what seems to be a resounding interest among fashion people in putting together an expensive-looking closet. When it comes to summer outfits, denim cutoff shorts often come to mind but not usually in a more sophisticated sense so they are often overlooked beyond a casual ensemble. However, I'm not convinced that they need to be. Thanks to the help of some chic styling it's 100% possible to instantly elevate your favorite denim cutoffs.
To prove this, I rounded up nine standout outfits straight from my Instagram outfit inspiration folder that show just how elevated this jeans shorts style can truly be. A red thread through each of these outfits is the inclusion of elevated essentials like smart blazers, effortless T-shirts, classic belts, trendy ballet flats, chic sandals, and more. Keep scrolling to check out and shop each look—I guarantee you will be able to get even more wear out of your denim shorts collection this season.
1.
Shop the look:
Neutral blazers are a personal favorite.
To wear forever.
White tees always come in handy.
You can't go wrong with Levi's denim.
These look luxe.
2.
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Denim goodness.
So sleek.
Perfect for summer.
Agolde jeans are always selling out.
3.
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Cute and under $100.
I want this top in every color.
Statement earrings.
Love a mini bag.
Madewell belts are top notch.
And their denim is as well.
Designer vibes.
4.
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Cool-girl feels.
So many ways to style this piece.
Polo shirts are in the spotlight again.
Another cute mini bag.
For the short shorts lovers.
These also come in red and black.
5.
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Tell me these aren't cool.
The mini ruffles!
For a fun layered look.
Great for layering.
These are selling out fast!
Such a lovely shade of blue.
6.
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Oversize, just the way I like it.
Summer bag alert.
Simple yet chic.
A worthy investment.
Another super-short option.
7.
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Effortless.
I'm obsessed.
Another great pair from Agolde.
The contrast stitching makes these look expensive.
8.
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A chic under-$50 find.
Pretty!
Butter yellow is trending.
Levi's are where it's at.
You can wear this with everything from jeans to skirts.
An affordable pick worth scooping up.
9.
Shop the look:
A Nordstrom standout.
Easy breezy.
The ultimate chain bracelet.
Did I mention Bermuda shorts are popular right now?
I could live in these.
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Elegant Dressers in Manhattan Are Trading Suede Flats for This Equally Rich TrendA worthy investment.
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Put Down the Skinny Jeans—*This* Is the Denim Trend Everyone Everywhere Is Wearing With SandalsThey're not straight-leg jeans either.
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The Best Elevated Basics to Shop If You Love The Row, According to a StylistSo chic.
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The 29 Most-Wanted Luxury Buys of Summer 2025, PeriodFrom jelly sandals to Burberry bikinis.
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I Styled 7 Nordstrom Outfits for Under $325 That Are Very Fashion Person CodedStylish summer looks ahead.
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Harry Styles Just Paired Short Shorts With the New It Sneaker Color of the SummerA vibe.
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Linen Who? This Even More Effortless Trend Just Entered the ChatMeet the most wearable trend of the summer.
