Summertime has always been the ultimate excuse to show some
skin and get away with it. And though the no-pants look is suffering a major
backlash (much to the chagrin of Lady Gaga), shorts remain a go-to summer
staple once the city begins to sizzle. After a few attempted seasons of
shorts-as-formalwear, designers have now found a happy balance between
dressed-up and wearable looks. Looser fits allow for more room in the leg,
providing relief from the camel-toe woes of short shorts. Soft-structured
shorts also prevail this summer, offering an alternative to the mini skirt for
those who might be walking a fine line when it comes to their office dress
codes. Higher waists add emphasis on feminine curves, while pleats
occasionally make an appearance to add fullness (and possibly a comparison to
your mom’s shorts if not done right, so buyer beware). With lengths running the
gamut from demure to dangerous, stick with something that falls mid-thigh, a
style that can actually make legs look leaner. Paired with a sleek top,
the latest incarnations of the short are chic enough to rival the appeal of a
polished skirt or playful dress any day of the week.
A) Pleated harem shorts, $79.90, available at Zara; Poleci tank, $88, available at Stil. B) Alexander Wang shorts, $345, available at Stel’s; Bruuns Bazaar shirt, $138, available at Stil; stylist’s own belt.
C) Kaila linen shorts, $140, available at Reiss; belt, $90, available at Reiss; Poleci shirt, $338, available at Stil.
Where to Shop
Reiss, 132 Newbury Street, Boston, 617.262.5800, www.reiss.co.uk
Stel’s, 334 Newbury Street, Boston, 617.262.3348, www.stelsinc.com
Stil, 800 Boylston Street, Boston, 617.859.7845, www.stilinc.com
Zara, 212–214 Newbury Street, Boston, 617.236.1414, www.zara.com
