When warmer days arrive, shorts are always a tempting option, although you can wear them any time of year with the right adjustments. Since they are so practical and versatile, they are an absolute must for a range of outings. Shorter shorts are perfect to wear for a trip to the beach, the pool, or a festival, while longer ones are the key to achieving that professional look – if the dress code allows it – as well as great for a day out shopping or a night out on the town.
But, just like other pieces,picking the perfect shorts to flatter your figure will depend on knowing your body type, so you can highlight your strong points. Our biggest tip? Make sure to get the right size. What matters most is how comfortable you are in them. Here are a few recommendations to get the most out of this hot-weather item for different body types.
Rolled or frayed
Frayed shorts will draw others’ gaze to your thighs, so it’s important to make sure they aren’t too tight.
Our recommendation: high-waisted, pleated detail mom fit denim shorts with a rolled hem.
Topshop ($46).
High waist
High-waisted shorts make your legs look longer, meaning they are petite woman’s best friend, especially the shorter shorts, which look great with a sleeveless blouse. They’ll also look great on you if you have wider hips or if you want to highlight a small waist.
Our recommendation: high-waisted vinyl shorts with a relaxed fit, front pockets, dart detailing, and a skinny belt with square buckle closure. Nasty Gal ($16).
Mid waist
Shorts that rest below the waist are a good choice if your body is rectangular, in other words, if your waist and hips have the same proportions. Shorter designs create the impression of greater volume.
Our recommendation: animal print mid-waist Bandits short with five pockets by One Teaspoon. Shopbop ($119).
Paperbag
This design is known for its high waist and tight fit with a belt, bow, or gathered strap. If you have an hourglass figure, it will fit your curves perfectly. It will also flatter your figure if you have smaller hips by creating a curved silhouette. An extra tip? Wear them with basic form-fitting tops or blouses so you don’t create more volume than you want.
Our recommendation: twill paperbag shorts with a matching belt, side pockets, and a single back welt pocket. & Other Stories ($69).
Mid-length Bermuda shorts
Bermuda shorts going halfway down the thigh look great on everyone. Keep in mind, the wider they are, the shorter they will make your legs look.
Our recommendation: tailored shorts from 4th + Reckless with pleats, button closures, and side pockets. Asos ($56).
More volume at the hips
If you aren’t very curvy, styles with side pockets will add volume to your hips. You can get the same effect if you pick pleated shorts, with an A-line silhouette, with texture or prints with graphics or flashy colors.
Our recommendation: high-waisted cream shorts with relaxed fit, patch pockets, and belt. Frankie ($89).
In black
Black is well-known for being one of the most slimming colors. If you don’t want to draw attention to your bottom half then shorts in this or other dark colors are a great option to keep in mind. You can enhance the effect by pairing with blouses or tops in eye-catching colors.
Our recommendations: black shorts with an elastic high-waisted belt. Boohoo ($7.20).
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A-line or fluid fabric
A-line shorts with fluid fabric will look flattering on you if your body has an hourglass shape or if you want to cover up your thighs, because they will make your legs look long and slender. They’ll also be really helpful if your hips are more narrow than your shoulders.
Our recommendation: Mid-thigh A-line sequinned shorts with two pockets and an inlaid waistband. Maje ($295).
Fastener free
If you don’t want to add more volume to your stomach, look for shorts that are fastened on the sides rather than on the front or simply shorts with a thin elastic band. An extra tip? Vertical stripes will lengthen your silhouette, while horizontal stripes will create the illusion of wider hips. So, if your body has an inverted triangle shape, you’ve found your new best friend.
Our recommendation: Margot shorts by Tularosa with side button detailing and a hidden back closure. Revolve ($21).
Very long Bermuda shorts
Bermuda shorts that reach to your knees or go just a few inches below them have become a hot item in recent seasons. That is music to our ears because apart from being comfortable, they’re extra versatile and very flattering.
Our recommendation: Pleated Bermuda shorts in medium brown with front closure, double belt, and pockets. Mango ($55.99).
Shoes are also a contributor in the slimming equation. If you want look a few inches taller avoid shoes that you tie around your ankles and ankle boots. Go with nude-color shoes so your leg line is uninterrupted and appears longer. Ready to show off your beautiful legs?
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