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It’s the annual hot weather dressing dilemma: should you wear shorts in the city? The short (forgive me) answer is yes. Bermudas in the boardroom get a big tick. But there’s a long list of styles which don’t quite make the cut this summer.
From jorts to linen you can wear on and off the beach, and the return of capris, these are the fashion pack-approved styles to try now, depending on your body shape and height.
IN
City shorts
Best body shape and height: Hourglass and pear. Tall and petite.
Tailored, high-waisted and smart, these city slicker shorts are a simple solution for looking put together in the heat. Tall ladies should look for a mid-thigh length – anything shorter will make you appear too leggy. Lululemon’s 7” Daydrift pleated pair are the surprise star buy of the season. They’re soft, come in five colours from XXS to XXL and they actually fit around fuller thighs and glutes. The waistband even contains a cinch drawcord so you can customise your fit. But for the final flourish, I recommend making use of the belt loops – statement gold hardware at your midriff will instantly elevate the look.
Jorts
Best body shape and height: Hourglass figures benefit from high-waisted jorts that emphasize the waistline. Athletic builds can use frayed or distressed styles to add texture and volume. Apple shapes may prefer mid-rise jorts with a looser fit for a balanced silhouette.
An abbreviation of jean shorts, these are the contemporary take on Daisy Dukes, which are a big no-no (read on for the not so hot list). Casual and comfy, consider these an everyday style. Pair yours with almond toe ballet flats, flip flops, open toed mules and Birkenstock clogs. But avoid trainers – you don’t want to look like a skateboarder.
Bermudas
Best body shape and height: the long line structure is particularly flattering for those with tall, slim or athletic builds as the length flows with your silhouette. Avoid them if you are petite or risk looking swamped by the excess fabric.
Too long and you will look like a teenage boy. Too short and they no longer qualify as Bermudas. The ideal Bermuda should hit just above the knee. Wearing anything baggy on your top half can make you look frumpy. Balance is key to making the bermudas proportionate with the rest of your look. I suggest a figure skimming bodysuit (see Skims and Klayd), a simple vest top or something cropped that will show a section of skin above your midriff. Heels are the best footwear to opt for here, to add to the lengthening illusion.
Linen
Best body shape and height: for everybody!
I am not the biggest fan of linen – it’s guaranteed to crease after minimal sitting and moving. But in the cut of a pair of shorts, the only wrinkles you risk are at the hinge of your hip. I like to save mine for the beach or wear yours in the city with elevated shirting, sleek jewellery and a leather (not raffia) handbag. The spring green pair from the Rejina Pyo x John Lewis collaboration collection is chef’s kiss.
Capris
Best body shape and height: Whether you’re petite, curvy or plus size, capri pants look great on every body type. They combine the breezy ease of a cropped hemline with the polished vibe of tailored pants.
These shorts come with celebrity approval. Claudia Winkleman wore hers on the BAFTA’s red carpet last month. Amanda Seyfried slipped on a set whilst promoting her latest hit film, The Testament of Ann Lee, in February. Bella Hadid, Hailey Bieber and Sabrina Carpenter are all big fans, too. Plain black is the way to go, and ignore the pairs which cut off halfway up your calf. The trick is to find some which skim just beneath your knee and cut in at the slim bit between your knee cap and the start of your calf instead. You’ll find these all over the high street and even in the supermarket. But if you’re feeling jazzy, head straight to Damson Madder for a dotty brown pair!
OUT
- Daisy Dukes: leave them behind.
- Hot pants: we don’t need to see your behind.
- Dungaree shorts: these are for toddlers.
- Cycling shorts: Princess Diana famously wore hers whilst running errands with a sweatshirt and trainers and she looked excellent. But today, just keep yours for the gym.
- Skorts: go for one of the other, not both.
- Paperbag waist shorts: these don’t do anybody any favours.
- Bloomers: unfortunately these make you look as though you forgot to take off your pj’s before leaving the house.
- Retro running shorts: these are for Harry Styles and Paul Mescal, only.
