One can’t talk about heatwaves without mentioning this absolute wardrobe essential: women’s shorts. If you’re not a summer dress person, there’s nothing better than shorts to style out the hot days, and lucky for us, shorts happen to be a major trend for summer 2020.
Shorts are often panic-inducing, perhaps because bum-skimming denim cut-offs immediately come to mind. But they have come a long way, cementing their status as one of the chicest sartorial choices for the warmer months.
The likes of Max Mara, Bottega Veneta and Saint Laurent re-imagined the staple in their spring/summer collections, creating long tailored, colourful and oversized pieces.
Here’s a rundown of the top women’s shorts trends to invest in this summer, and how to wear them.
Don’t forget to check our Marie Claire vouchers site before you shop for the latest offers and discounts from your favourite brands – think, Wolf & Badger, Flannels and John Lewis.
Denim shorts
Owning a pair of good quality denim shorts is like owning that perfect white t-shirt, they will never go out of style, the kay is to pick a style that reaches to that doesn’t look sprayed-on. For the new season, we love statement shorts with an unusual detail, like these pearl ones seen on Tamu McPherson.
Tailored shorts
Ever since Kaia Gerber and Bella Hadid walked down the Max Mara runway in the most perfect short suits in pastel shades two years ago, tailored shorts have been put firmly back on the fashion map. Whilst the full ensemble is a great look for work, they are equally chic worn separately, with a a minimal white t-shirt and hiking sandals, as seen on Pernille Teisbaek. For SS21, try linen shorts.
Knee length shorts
Love the or loathe them, bermuda shorts are a key trend this summer, and you don’t even have to have tall legs to pull them off. These are best worn with a crop top for balance, or a men’s shirt and chunky sandals. I love this Prada look on Tamu (again!).
Short shorts
Micro shorts have a bit of a bad rep, but they can be surprisingly chic, the key is balance. Ellie from Slip Into Style keeps things chic by teaming her shorts with an oversized top. And don’t be afraid to embrace colours and prints for summer.
Now that you know your trends, it’s time to shop my edit of the best women’s shorts below.
PRESTON unisex fleece jersey short, £160 at Mackage
The perfect update on your winter loungewear.
KNEE-LENGTH SHORTS, £59 at COS
Made from cotton with a breathable finish, these knee-length shorts have an elasticated waistband at the back for added comfort.
Linen Shorts, £35 at ARKET
Crafted from a soft and airy fabric woven from pure linen, these pyjama-style shorts have a soft feel to the touch.
Cecile Hemp Shorts, £85 at BAUKJEN
Made from planet-friendly hemp, this waisted style is designed to graze the thigh and features crisp pleats down the front.
Stretch Linen Cotton Tan Shorts, £275 at JOSEPH
An elevated wardrobe staple, the Stretch Linen Tan Shorts are a relaxed take on a Bermuda crafted from a versatile linen and cotton blend.
NINETY PERCENT + NET SUSTAIN tie-dyed organic cotton-jersey shorts, £75 at Net-A-Porter
Find the charity label inside Ninety Percent's shorts and you can help choose where 90% of the brand's proceeds go. Cut for a boxy, knee-grazing fit, they're made from soft, GOTS-certified organic cotton-jersey decorated with dreamy tie-dye.
ZIMMERMANN Mae belted pleated printed linen shorts, £360 at Net-A-Porter
Zimmermann's 'Mae' shorts are printed with lush palm fronds in vibrant shades of orange. They're woven from lightweight linen and have a belted high-rise waist and relaxed legs emphasized by sharp pleats.
WIDE-CUT SHORTS WITH ALL-OVER EMBROIDERY, £219 at maje
To celebrate the first anniversary of the Ibiza store, Judith from make has designed a limited edition collection which celebrates the charms of the Mediterranean everywhere in the world, including these cute embroidered shorts.
PETIT 70S SHORTS, £19.99 at ZARA
A classic high waist denim style.
INDI WHISPER RUTH SHORTS, £65 at French Connection
A pared-back essential, the Indi Whisper Ruth Shorts make the short suit trend look effortless.
