From Bermudas to hot pants: These are summer’s hottest trends in shorts

The most recent Saint Laurent collections have been leaning towards a seductive, evening-glam aesthetic. So it should come as no surprise that their line of shorts for this summer features ultra-short designs with a tailored fit, made from lavish materials that are guaranteed to make you sparkle at any soirée.

If you have a petite frame, cropped and tight-fitting shorts will do wonders to elongate your legs. Saint Laurent have given us some great evening options, but the classic cut-off shorts are always a must. With their frayed hems, informal style and boatloads of personality, they’re an unquestionable go-to this summer. ( Zara , $29.90)

Last year we saw how leather Bermudas were able to catapult informal shorts to a more stylish level. Bottega Veneta have continued on that same path with their new collection of loose-fitting designs that capitalize on the sumptuous texture of leather, giving classic Bermudas an attractive and easy-to-wear twist.

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If you have straight hips or fewer curves, then Bermudas are a great choice for you. Avoid styles with a high waist though, since they could increase the appearance of a boxy silhouette. Instead, opt for a lower waist and a wider fit which will create the illusion of a more proportional figure, like these from AG Adriano Goldschmied (Revolve, $98), which can be paired with a band t-shirt to create an edgy look.

Pleated shorts with a high waist and a baggy fit are all you need to showcase a narrow waist and long, slender legs. In his collection for Carolina Herrera , designer Wes Gordon’s proposal lightens up the somber black color with vibrant polka dots.

Polka dots, pleats and a high waist: Dries Van Noten uses these elements in a completely different way. The highly-regarded Belgian designer starts with a simple pair of straight-leg white denim shorts, and takes the style up a notch with a hybrid peplum piece that functions as a belt, giving them a much more interesting design. Who said that shorts can’t be avant-garde?

Paperbag shorts are still in vogue this summer. If you want to add an interesting twist, then go for a pair like these from H&M ($24.99), which have handy cargo pockets. A relaxed elegance that’s perfect for hot sunny days.

If you have more pronounced hips, you’ll find that balance is just what you need to create a harmonious look. Consider shorts that aren’t too long, or too short; not too tight, or too baggy. A slightly high waist is great, but again, not too high. It’s also very important to make sure the fabric has a little body to it and a structured design. If you choose a monochromatic look or matching outfit like this one from Target ($24.99), you’ll look a few inches taller and gain a ton of style points.

Now, if you really want to take advantage of summer to show off your legs, and you have the right personality for them, hot pants are always an option! Thanks to this season’s Chanel collection there are a ton of different options. Of course, the fact that Gigi Hadid is wearing them makes them look even more awesome.