shorts story

Tired of skinny jeans, miniskirts, and shift dresses? Well, there’s a new guy in town. Winter legs, meet shorts. Formerly relegated to days on the beach, shorts are now an all-year wardrobe staple for those young enough and confident enough to try the trend and, ultimately, revel in all its leggy glory.

If you’re one of the fearless few, read on for tips on how to look more chic than schleppy as you navigate this schizophrenic winter-spring transition known as March. 

Crop Trou

For daytime, try trouser-style shorts— pleats and cuffed hem optional and adorable. This style is versatile, flatters most body types, and if you call yourself a “creative” may even be office-appropriate (use your own discretion). Pair your trouser shorts with a cropped long sleeve top that shows off a sliver of your midsection a la sari blouse for the most current look or else hits right at the waistband for more coverage. And because it’s not quite spring yet, add woolen tights and sturdy ankle booties to keep toasty.

No Disco Diva

Shorts are now perfectly acceptable eveningwear and a fun alternative to the ubiquitous mini dress. If you do pick up a pair of sequined or metallic shorts for after-hours though, play down the disco queen/cocktail waitress effect. Low-cut, clingy tops and 5” peep-toe pumps generally look too cliché to be fashionable. Opt instead for a menswear-inspired vest with a simple tank or turtleneck layered underneath. Balance the top with a chunkier heel, but keep the rest of your accessories minimal; let your standout shorts (and legs!) do the talking.

The Morning After

This may sound like a major fashion don’t, but I’m going to go ahead and say it: for the weekend, feel free to wear your comfiest, rattiest, denim cutoff short-shorts. Pair them with a wifebeater and havaianas however, and we are no longer on talking terms. Not to mention, you’ll freeze. Keep it warm, keep it edgy, with a slouchy cashmere sweater, chunky snood, and your favorite worn-in motorcycle boots. Wearing last night’s black nylons and eyeliner is just fine by me too.

And one last word of advice before I wrap up this shorts story: prior to leaving the house in your new shorts, please stand in front of a mirror, turn around, peak over your shoulder, bend over, sit down, and make sure it all looks as it should. Then smile and take your very young, your very confident self off to where it needs to be.