7 Shorts to Wear This Summer

last updated 22 July 2021

I'm running out for a coffee with a friend: I'm likely throwing on a pair of high-waist denim cutoffs, slip-on Vans, and a ribbed-knit crop top. It's Saturday afternoon, my boyfriend calls and wants to go get drinks at our neighborhood bar before happy hour ends: I'm already in some loose linen shorts, so all I need to do is swap my ratty band tee for a cute, bright crochet top. My best friends and I are going out for dinner in Palm Springs during a weekend getaway: I'm wearing seersucker shorts, maybe even as part of a matching set. You get the idea: Shorts are the versatile summer staple you need in your closet. And you need them in denim and linen and everything in between. Read the story to shop my favorite seven pairs right now.

Ganni

Seersucker Check Shorts

I should live in seersucker shorts, dresses, pants, and tops in the summer. I honestly don't know why I don't. So don't mind me while I go buy these as well as the matching top and whatever else I can get my hands that's seersucker, checkered, and quintessentially Ganni.

Levi's

501 Original Shorts

Light blue denim cutoffs are a classic for a reason. No other item in your closet will get more wear than these this summer.

Staud

Caterina Shorts

Another amazing lightweight style for those hot days when you want to put together a fun outfit but do not want to collapse under the weight of some denim. I'm here to tell you these ruffled high-waist shorts will go with all your cropped tops and bodysuits, plus earn you major cool-kid points for taking a leap on 2021's bubblegum pink trend.

Allegra K

Wide Leg Shorts

I have so many colorful crochet and open-work knit tops that will pair so well with these white shorts. The natural buttons are such a nice touch, too.

Luvamia

High Rise Distressed Shorts

Longer, looser denim shorts deserve a place in our closets. These will give you that effortless, cool look, especially with a pair of heeled thongs and a halter top.

Allegra K

High Waist Culotte Shorts

I own a beloved pair of black floral-print shorts that I've worn over and over again for years. There's just something so versatile about them. I can really dress them up with a sweater or puff sleeve blouse or keep them casual with a ribbed-knit halter. But I know the time is coming to retire them, and these just may be their replacement.

Lioness

Boyfriend Shorts

Pajamas? Shorts? Either/or? I'm shocked I don't already own these because I know they will be in the weekly rotation the moment I do. Just imagine them with a pair of white canvas sneakers.

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Aralyn Beaumont joined Who What Wear as the copy editor for branded content after a career in food media. Years of poring over intricate recipes with a fine-tooth comb and working with high-profile chefs has prepared her well for working with fashion's top brands while honoring Who What Wear's voice. Her background as a research editor makes her a finicky editor who will probably care too much about making sure all copy is as factually accurate and aligned with the house style guide as can be. Maybe it's because she's a Gemini, but her personal style is impossible to pin down: One day you'll see her in a turtleneck sweater tucked into a midi skirt with heeled boots, and the next, she'll be wearing mom jeans, a white Hanes tee, and classic Vans. At the end of the day, her style reflects her various moods. Sometimes it will be feminine and elegant, and others it will be grungy or androgynous. Certain things will always remain constant, though. She'll forever be on the hunt for the perfect pair of high-waisted jeans.