The 5 Types of Shorts Everyone Should Have in Their Closets
Your summertime staples.
![Street Style: September 21 - Milan Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2019](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/6RPV5tvnZJK6DwJnxYNzsC-1280-80.jpg)
Shorts have high fashion's seal of approval. From the short suits at Max Mara to the paperbag waist shorts at Valentino, the proof is in the pudding that these versatile bottoms are not only the building blocks to one's wardrobe, but are also trendy when designed with the right elements. (Personally, I'm a big fan of the Bermuda shorts trend dominating spring/summer 2020!). With so many different short styles to choose from this season, I'm here to break down the various categories and offer some styling tips on how to wear them. Some, like your classic denim cutoffs, are relatively easy to style while others like a paperbag waist takes some mixing and matching for the right feel. Trade in your summer dresses and skirts for the cute shorts ahead.
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![Bermuda Shorts](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/yBCQq7tdjDrXbt2DNEVNxg-415-80.jpg)
Bermuda Shorts
The Bermuda short or trouser short isn't just for your modest mom these days. As one of this season's biggest trends, we saw the bottoms dominate the runways from Max Mara to The Row, in all different colors, styles, and fabrics. Many designers showcased a "short suit" for the season, which consists of trouser shorts and a blazer.
![Nanushka Yolie Faux Leather Shorts](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/bddecfMN8sj5T5Ag38q7P7-415-80.png)
Nanushka Yolie Faux Leather Shorts
A great pair of leather (or faux leather) shorts will become a staple in your wardrobe. Pair them with a plain white tee and a bunch of gold necklaces for a laidback outfit, or rock it with a spicy tank and a great pair of mules for a night out.
![Max Mara Lux shorts](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Z3Y2zehFwLpTsRCMRdwF2C-415-80.png)
Max Mara Lux shorts
Give these trouser shorts the high fashion styling they deserve by paring them with a matching blazer. Violà, you are now rocking a spring/summer 2020 look: the short suit. Bermuda shorts are appropriate and tasteful for those who work in a more casually-dressed environment.
![Denim Shorts](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/gtPqJJb4SAkHdmVVtaLwqH-415-80.jpg)
Denim Shorts
Denim shorts are an All-American classic and will never fade out of our wardrobes simply due to their effortless and easy-to-wear nature. When the temperatures rise, it's time to swap your favorite skinnies for your favorite denim cutoffs. Stick with a traditional blue or perhaps adventure to pastels and tie-dye styles.
![Guess Distressed Denim Biker Shorts](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/bkSnPzek5YNKPG3qoZE6gQ-415-80.png)
Guess Distressed Denim Biker Shorts
This bottom is a more mature take on the itty-bitty Daisy Dukes. One of my favorite styling hacks is a denim-on-denim look. Pair these with a great denim shirt, it doesn't have to be the same wash, and a cute western belt. Throw on a pair of booties and you have yourself a lewk!
![Levi's Ribcage High-Waisted Denim Short](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/q4qoeMHu69LaYVPiL9gbGN-415-80.png)
Levi's Ribcage High-Waisted Denim Short
When it comes to black denim shorts you can't beat an OG like Levi's. This pair is just as versatile as your blue denim cutoffs, so wear it with a striped t-shirt, a leather jacket, and some Chuck Taylors for a cool rock-and-roll look.
![Biker Shorts](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/s8X2e7LB9dpAvJNR3zdB7U-415-80.jpg)
Biker Shorts
The biker shorts trend shows no signs of slowing down as it made its way from the runways to the streets and into our wardrobes and hearts. The most inspiring quality about these bottoms is the way people have styled them. Many street style stars have created a juxtaposition by pairing their lycra leg wear with high-fashion pieces, from blazers and blouses to even heels. Biker shorts aren't reserved solely for the gym anymore.
![Intimately Seamless Rib Bike Short](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/T2fdvc5zkLg8QcM7EeyWEZ-415-80.png)
Intimately Seamless Rib Bike Short
A basic black pair of biker shorts acts as a great base. Since it can be worn with almost anything, don't be afraid to be a little more extra with your top and accessories.
![& Other Stories Leopard Cycling Shorts](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/hh4rM9MEVStbudh3LgJBhd-415-80.jpg)
& Other Stories Leopard Cycling Shorts
If basic black is too boring for you, try out a bold print. Personally, I think cheetah print is a neutral, it goes with everything (well, not everything but a lot). Pair your cheetah shorts with a tank and a blazer, finish the look off with your fav sandals and pile on the gold jewelry.
![Paperbag Waist Shorts](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/b9kFgi5bmAHpfdt9HgkeCn-415-80.jpg)
Paperbag Waist Shorts
A paperbag waist cut means the garment has a little extra fabric at the waist to give it that cinched "paper bag" look when belted. Typically worn high on the waist, the cut creates a very flattering, feminine silhouette. A cinched waist always adds shape to boxier garments.
![Red Valentino Belted Paperbag Waist Shorts](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/S7883482adG8kR9PPEcjdg-415-80.png)
Red Valentino Belted Paperbag Waist Shorts
The cream color of these bottoms is perfect for languid summer days. The built-in belt at the waist gives them a dressier feel, so feel free to style with a chic blouse and espadrilles for that Hamptons uniform.
![Fendi Paperbag Waist Washed Silk Crêpe de Chine Shorts](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/TEidsGBcwWddXbSHctCSvm-415-80.jpg)
Fendi Paperbag Waist Washed Silk Crêpe de Chine Shorts
We all know how hard it is to look cute when its 95 degrees with 87 percent humidity. That's when we'll pull out these flouncy Fendi shorts, which are light and breezy. Rock with a ribbed tank or sheer top.
![Athletic Shorts](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/NsQxn8QJ8c8sTEMnXU3nf5-415-80.jpg)
Athletic Shorts
If you want to take the athleisure trend the extra mile, experiment with wearing athletic shorts outside of your workout class. Like biker shorts, you can pair them with unexpected items such as a blazer and heels. We challenge you (and ourselves) to take a fashion risk this summer with these fun combinations.
![Adidas 3-Stripes Pull-On Short](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/Vdrr7vMosZjFP633EgUDPC-415-80.jpg)
Adidas 3-Stripes Pull-On Short
Take a nod from your favorite street style stars and wear these with an oversized blazer, your favorite pair of miles, a bucket hat, and pile on the necklaces.
![Gucci GG Flora Short](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/u22GnejKEJvu6FuUQnsgMJ-415-80.jpg)
Gucci GG Flora Short
The basketball short gets a feminine update from Gucci. These bottoms feature the signature "GG" print with stunning florals on top. Wear with a classic button-down and platform heels for a girly but sport look.
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Shelby Comroe is the Credits Editor and Fashion Assistant at Marie Claire covering all things fashion and giving credit where credit is due. Check her out @shelbycomroe on Instagram if buying designer handbags is your idea of a retirement plan!
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