Wearing shorts has a few obvious pitfalls.
The more casual looks can easily become sloppy and unattractive, especially if you have some figure flaws. And not all shorts are created equal — a look can go from stylish to disaster in a matter of inches.
We asked retail experts to offer tips for buying and wearing shorts. The good news is that we baited everyone with one question: Is there anyone out there who should not be wearing shorts? They all said no.
The same rules apply to choosing shorts as they do to pants, they said.
But you have to be more careful about fit and fabric. Nothing you wear should require constant tugging and pulling to make you look presentable.
The old world view is that shorts are casual, but now’s the time to experiment with shorts and blazers, silk blouses and heels. Just don’t forget balance. Don’t wear shorts with a tiny top and stilettos. Why? It looks cheap.
Gregg Andrews, fashion director at Nordstrom: The most universally flattering length is the knee-length Bermuda, right above the knee.
On the runway, models were wearing heels with shorts in a big way.
This may not be everyone’s style, but taking something that’s typically casual and dressing it up is a great option. Shorts are not destined to be worn with just tennis shoes anymore. But if a woman does wear heels with the shorts, the shoe needs to have a more substantial heel, not a stiletto pumps. A wedge is a better option to add weight and ground the look.
If you are slim and have a shapely thigh and leg, you can go with a slimmer cut short. If you have a fuller figure, go with a wider cut to complement your proportions. The trick is to find something that drops straight from the hip. Shorts should fit like pants. If you have problems figuring out what works on you, look at the pants in your closet.
For a more fashion-forward look, there’s a short short with a 5- to 7-inch inseam. You can go as short as you dare or as short as your legs (and common sense) will let you go. These shorter shorts are popular in distressed denim for a casual look and dressed up with menswear details like cuffs and even pleats for a dressier option.
It’s hard to generalize, but if your shorts gather or bunch up in some unflattering way, you probably have a problem with fit. It might be the width of the leg or it might be the rise (the length from the crotch to your waistband). If you notice your shorts pulling or shifting uncomfortably and requiring a lot of adjustment, choose a longer rise. That could be the issue.
Mimi Nuelle, senior fashion buyer at : When in doubt, buy a size up. There is nothing worse than a pair of shorts that are too tight — they look bad and they’re uncomfortable! Bend over in them; squat in them; see how they move with your body.
And, bring a friend for candid feedback on what looks best on you.
Capris/pedal pushers are universally flattering because of their length, as they elongate your legs and draw attention away from your upper thighs, while shorter styles typically look best on slimmer body types. It’s very difficult for anyone over the age of 19 to wear super short shorts.
Typically, looser fitting shorts look best with snugger fitting tops, and vice-versa. Don’t forget belts. They tie a look together.
While navy, white, khaki and black are always standards, this season prints are in.
David Hacker, vice president of trend and color at Kohl’s, says the most popular shorts at Kohl’s this season are of shorter length. It is a great alternative to a miniskirt.
The long slim Bermuda short is the next most popular, and it can be dressed up with a cardigan or jacket. It can be dressed down with a graphic T-shirt. Both look great with boho knits and wovens.
Other shorts trends include cargo pockets and plaids.
Simon Kneen, creative director of Banana Republic, says shorts should be tailored and neat if you are thinking of wearing them to the office — think Bermudas with a tapered leg with or without a cuff. They work with boyfriend blazers or feminine cardigans or a great white shirt.
Soft washes and linen cargo-like shorts are this season’s must-haves.
