I just can’t quit the shorts this summer. They make me feel so carefree and relaxed and they are extremely practical for my at-home lifestyle of kids and dogs underfoot. Not to mention I can jump on a bike and go for a ride with my littlest at a moment’s notice, or sit on my front porch with no cares of flashing the neighbors. Not to say I don’t like skirts or dresses, but there is a certain ease that comes with shorts.
In seasons past I’ve shied away from shorts for a variety of reasons, and one of them was my lack of confidence in how to style them. I always felt like a little kid in them, or even underdressed or too casual. This summer, as I have been wearing them more and more, I’ve picked up a few tips to share. I first shared a post in June on how to style shorts so, if you missed that, consider it part 1. Today, I’m coming at you with three MORE tips for styling shorts, ideas I’ve picked up as we’ve gotten deeper into the season.
1. Try a Cutout Tank
One thing I’ve learned over the years of styling and writing about it – the smallest details make the biggest difference. Cutout tanks have been around for a few seasons, and I never gave them much thought (it seemed like too much of a bra hassle to consider it, honestly), until I ordered one on a whim. I was quite surprised how a slight change in the cut of a very basic top – a white tank – could change the whole look of an outfit! I really like wearing my cutout tank because it makes shorts feel fresh and updated, for a relatively small financial investment. I bet it would look cute with a skirt too, a bit of a feminine/masculine combination. (As for the bra situation, I wear mine with racerback style so the straps don’t peek out!)
I’m wearing a cutaway tank from Everlane (sized down). Madewell also has a great option. KOTN has a good-looking option too (I really love the quality of their cotton, it is top-notch). I found this one on Zappos, and I’m tempted to try it because it looks like it’s the kind that has built-in support, which means you wouldn’t need a bra!
(Outfit details: shorts (from last season), sandals)
2. Embrace Pleats
The 1990’s called, they said you can keep the pleats in 2020. Even though they are a fantastic throwback, they are chic and fresh today. Want to make a pant or short interesting? Just add pleats. Seriously. Pleated pants are definitely hot right now (I love these, and I own these), and pleated shorts are their cool, Skipper-esque younger sister.
Pleats in shorts are another one of those (not-so-small) details that shift the entire look of the garment. They create volume, add interest, AND space for air flow (perfect for hot days).
These are the Penny Shorts in Tanstone (c/o Esby), and they’re currently on sale for pre-order. (I’m wearing a size 4 and my measurements are 28.5″ waist and 38″ hips.) Penny Shorts are styled with the Jane Tee (size small), also c/o Esby. Shoes are c/o CANO from last season.
For more pleated shorts inspo, see my spring/summer Pinterest board.
3. Wear a Crop Top
Last spring, on a trip to LA with my husband, I wandered into this super cute boutique and was quickly intimidated by all the (extremely cute) crop tops on the hangers. Eventually my resistance was worn down (as I said, they were super cute) and I decided to try one on with a pair of high-waisted jeans. Guess what? A crop top with a high waist doesn’t actually show your belly button or your stomach. Instead it just looks super cool and chic. I freaking loved what I saw in the mirror and I bought both pieces on the spot.
This summer, as crop tops are increasingly popular, I find myself no longer intimidated, but rather drawn to them. They are a great complementary piece to baggy jeans, high waisted trousers, pleated shorts, paper bag shorts, you name it! My favorite crop tops are loose and linen, like the one I’m wearing above. This one is c/o Bill + Jay (from last season), and it’s the Melissa Tank in the cropped option. It’s a spring and summer staple for me. I also love the idea of a snug-fitting jersey crop, and I keep coming back to these (love the cheetah)! I’m also very into this loose cotton option!
(Outfit details: top (see above), shorts, sandals)
Happy shorts styling friends!
LOVING these moodier shots!!
Thank you so much Jenn!! Me too, it is fun to experiment!!
What size did you take in the B+J top please? Thanks.
Hi Ella! I have a medium and my tank is the CROP.
Hi! I just found your blog and I’m in love with your style! Love your crop top and high waist bottom ideas and suggestions.
Could you tell us what size and color of the bill & jay Mellisa tank you’re wearing here? I’m torn between ordering a small or medium for several reasons—long torso, sort of large boobs, broad shoulders, but under 5’5” and my new normal size is small (I was a medium my whole life, and I am not smaller by any means, but it seems sizing has changed to make women feel smaller, since everything I order lately is too big when I get a Medium😂😂😭)
Also, your pic from that boutique in LA of your first crop top and high waisted jeans is so me, too! Can you tell us the name of that top and those jeans, or possibly link to them or similar? Thanks so much for becoming one of my new go-to style gals! 😆😘
Hi Amy!! Thanks for the kind words and great questions!! I am wearing the Melissa Tank in a Medium CROP, I believe the color is cream! I would check the size chart close to your measurements, and then double check again. Ordering online is so darn tricky sometimes! My measuring tape and I are BFFs haha. The top is a crop by Paloma Wool, the only thing I can think of that’s similar would be this linen crop top with buttons. As for jeans, they are by Mother, and this is probably the closest option. (Or these with a slightly shorter inseam.)