How to find the perfect pair of shorts: shorts guide
Putting an outfit together with a pair of shorts: styling tips for men and women
Shorts are a real must-have for every summer wardrobe. You can combine a pair of shorts with any outfit for an elegant, casual or sporty look. We'll show you how to find the perfect pair of shorts. We will also give you some ideas and inspiration on how you can combine shorts with different outfits to look very stylish.
Different types of shorts
As soon as it starts to get warmer and sunnier, it's time to think about the perfect outfit with a pair of shorts. Below we'll show you different styles of shorts for men and women and which types of shorts you should wear on which occasion.
Denim shorts: a popular style of shorts for both men and women
Timeless I versatile I hard-wearing
Every wardrobe should have a pair of denim shorts and they are perfect for a casual summer look. They are timeless and available in many different designs, which means you can find the perfect pair of shorts to suit your individual style. Denim shorts are very robust and you can wear them time and time again.
Chino shorts: an elegant choice for both men and women
Smart I stylish I classic
Chino shorts are the perfect choice for any occasion in summer. They have a straight fit and their lightweight cotton fabric makes them versatile and, combined with a blouse or shirt, they are suitable for both a meeting and a party with friends. Chino shorts look particularly elegant in light cream colours, which makes them an absolute must-have for your wardrobe.
Bermuda shorts: casual shorts for both men and women
Casual I loose-fitting I comfortable
Bermuda shorts are the perfect choice for a casual look which is perfect for a holiday or a relaxed stroll around town. These types of shorts are slightly longer and have a looser fit so that they fit very comfortably. They have wonderful patterns, which will instantly make you feel summery. Thanks to their muted colours and high-quality materials, you can also wear them to casual and formal occasions.
Cargo shorts: trendy & sporty shorts for both men and women
Trendy I practical I sporty
You can recognise cargo shorts by their large pockets. These types of shorts are practical and stylish, which makes them the perfect choice for outdoor adventurers and urban explorers. Combined with a casual shirt or a smart top, you can put together a smart casual outfit in no time at all. Cargo shorts are great for anybody that loves .
Jogger shorts: very comfortable shorts for men and women
Comfortable I sporty I casual
Are you looking for a very comfortable pair of shorts? Jogger shorts may be the ideal choice for you. With their soft material and loose fit, they are very cosy for everyday wear and for going to the gym or keeping active. They can also be worn around the house when you want to have a relaxing day at home.
Cycling shorts: a great choice for anybody that enjoys cycling
Sporty I close-fitting I fashionable
Cycling shorts are like short leggings that are mainly worn by cyclists. However, these shorts are becoming increasingly popular outside of the world of cycling. You can put together a fashionable sporty outfit with a blazer, a long blouse or an oversized shirt. If you combine them with a tracksuit top and a T-shirt, then these breathable shorts offer the comfort you need whilst keeping fit.
Paperbag shorts: chic shorts for women
Elegant I chic I smart
Paperbag shorts go down to your waist, where they are usually fastened with a small belt. They get their name from the way they look around your waist, as it looks like a tied-up paper bag. Paperbag shorts look very chic and they will make your waist stand out. You can wear them to formal meetings as well as for a fashionable casual look.
Women’s shorts & outfit tips
From casual to chic, a pair of shorts are always a great choice and they allow you to put together stylish outfits for different occasions. Below we will show you how to combine shorts with your everyday outfits:
For an elegant outfit: if you like wearing elegant outfits or are looking for an outfit for a more formal occasion, you can choose paperbag or chino shorts. You can effortlessly create a wonderful outfit by combining these types of shorts with a smart blouse or a stylish top. Depending on the occasion, you can finish off your outfit with ballerinas, espadrilles or high heels.
For work: If your workplace allows shorts, you can also wear them to work. It is a good idea to choose a pair of shorts, such as Bermudas or chinos made from a high-quality fabric. Combine them with a blazer and ballerinas to round off your look for work.
For keeping fit and playing sports: athleisure is the perfect fashion trend if you prefer a sportier outfit. For this look, combine a pair of jogger shorts or cycling shorts with a loose-fitting hoodie or a top. Finish off your look with a pair of trainers.
For a casual look: you can combine cargo shorts with a loose T-shirt to createthe perfect casual summer look. Depending on your preferences, a leater jacket, blouson or bomber jacket will be a fantastic addition to your outfit. Don’t forget a pair of sandals or even light leather boots to finish off your summer look.
Use our tips below to help you find the perfect pair of shorts that will suit you and your body shape:
→ Petite women should opt for high waisted shorts because they will make their legs appear longer.
→ Curvy women can also emphasise their legs with shorter styles. However, longer styles such as Bermuda shorts also look fantastic.
Men’s shorts & outfit tips
Summer is the perfect time for creating an airy look with a pair of shorts. Below we will show you different outfit ideas that you can combine with shorts:
For a smart casual look: you can't go wrong with a pair of chino shorts or Bermudas made of high-quality fabrics for family celebrations and for meeting up with friends. Combine them with a polo shirt or a casual shirt to create a chic look that you can round off with matching sandals or trainers.
For keeping fit and playing sports: a pair of jogger shorts are the perfect choice for a sporty look. Combine them with a T-shirt, hoodie or a tracksuit top and a pair of trainers.
For a trendy street style: a pair ofcargo shorts paired with a light button-down shirt will give you a great streetwear look. Finish off your outfit with a leather or bomber jacket.
For a casual look: Bermuda shorts are a fantastic choice for a trendy casual look. They go well with patterned shirts or plain coloured T-shirts.
If you want to wear shorts in a bold colour or with a striking pattern, you will need to keep the rest of your outfit rather simple. This will show off your look to its best advantage.
FAQs on how to find your new perfect pair of shorts
Shorts are not only great for hot summer days, as they can also look very stylish combined with different outfits. Below you'll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about finding the perfect pair of shorts:
Can you wear shorts to work?
Jobs in marketing or in creative fields of work often have a smart casual dress code, which would allow you to wear shorts to work. Nevertheless, you should keep the following in mind:
Opt for shorts such as chinos or Bermuda shorts.
Where possible choose a pair of shorts that are made of cotton or linen.
Go for darker colours, pastel shades or white. Shorts in dark blue always look quite smart.
Complete your look with a smart blazer and a jacket. Men can also choose a matching belt.
What type of shorts should you wear if you have thick legs?
In general, you can wear any type of shorts you feel comfortable in. However, we recommend wearing longer and looser-fitting shorts so that they have a good fit and feel comfortable. They will also make your legs look slimmer. You can also opt for shorts in dark colours, which will also help make your legs appear slimmer.
When can you start wearing shorts?
When you can start wearing shorts depends on how hot or cold it is and what you are going to be doing. When playing sports, you can wear shorts from around 10 °C. For a casual look, we recommend wearing shorts when it is 20 °C to 25 °C.
Can you wear shorts with long socks?
You can wear longer socks with a pair of shorts if it matches your look or if you are going to the gym or playing sports. If you’re not sure, it's best to wear ankle socks, as they go with any pair of shorts.
Conclusion: stylish outfits with shorts for both men and women
From casual to chic and from sporty to elegant, the variety of styles, fabrics and combinations make shorts an essential item of clothing for every wardrobe. When choosing the perfect pair of shorts keep the occasion in mind so that you can put together an outfit that shows off your personal style and looks good.
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The image sources in this text are in chronological order:
Cover photo: iStock.com/Wavebreakmedia
1. Image in text: iStock.com/Zoran Zeremski
All other images in this text are from C&A