This season, an unexpected shorts trend has been doing the rounds on social media, and now it's officially become one of the biggest looks of the summer.
Offering something distinctly different from the long shorts and boxers that are circulating elsewhere, bloomer shorts are starting to crop up on the feeds of eclectic dressers. Found in soft cotton, chiffon or silk, the lingerie-inspired shorts often feature frilly hems, billowy cuts and lacy details. Whilst the best bloomer shorts may feels new this season, it does tap into the playful underwear-as-outerwear aesthetic that has been dominating the fashion scene for the past few years.
Another reason for its sudden surge in popularity—the term "bloomer shorts" is up by 190% on Google Trends—could be rooted in the buzz surrounding the new series of The Buccaneers, where undergarments of this nature are rife on screen. It's no coincidence that we're starting to see the emergence of other regency-style underwear come back to the fore either, like bustiers and suspenders.
Back to reality and I'm seeing fashion people styling some of the best bloomer shorts with, well… just about everything. I recommend keeping things simple though—a basic T-shirt, vest or lightweight knit will offset the frills of the shorts and stop them from looking too "costumey".
It's a fairly niche trend and I was surprised at just how many of bloomer shorts there are on the market. From Posse's red and white gingham pair to Free People's pretty white styles, I've pulled together the best best bloomer shorts below. Scroll on to see and shop the bloomer shorts trend.
SHOP THE BLOOMER SHORTS TREND:
The scalloped lace trim is a bloomer-short hallmark.
The stripes give this trend a Parisian feel.
Tick off two trends in one with a butter yellow pair.
This looks so chic worn with the matching top.
These silky frilly bloomers are absolutely gorgeous.
These look as if you found them in a vintage flea market, which is exactly what you want from a pair of bloomers.
These elegant shorts also come in a chic cream hue.
These shorts come in so many fun colours and prints, but the white is classic.
I'm loving all things red gingham at the moment.
These sold out last year and come in eight other colours, so if you like them I'd be quick!
I love the contrast of the black lace on this pair.
The linen fabric allows for beautiful movement as you walk.
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