Fashion

8 Cool Shorts That Are Easy To Style, No Matter Your Summer Look

Four stylish creatives show us how it’s done

by Marie Lodi

In the world of summer style, less is usually more. This is particularly true when you’re talking about that hot weather staple that makes it easier to adventure, relax, and make the most of the season in total comfort: the summer short. Nothing compares when you’ve found your pair, whether they’re classic denim or a trendy sweats style. Even if they’re casual, shorts can easily transform into any look you want.

Urban Outfitters is celebrating the endless possibilities that come with this wardrobe mainstay through its new campaign, Short Stories. The retailer has teamed up with four New York-based creatives: Eva Alt, a ballet dancer; Lauren Chan, a size-inclusion advocate and clothing brand founder; Imani Randolph, a model, writer, and content creator; and Simone Smith, a musician and model, to show how they express themselves through their summer style.

Have fun with unexpected color and print combos like Randolph, (a green striped tee and pink gingham is a style power couple like no other) or take a cue from Alt and forgo the traditional shorts-and-sandals look by pairing cutoffs with loafers and a gold anklet.

Ready to curate your own summer style story? Check out our favorite shorts-centered looks below.

High-Waisted Mom Short – Light Blue Wash
BDG

The versatility of a high-waisted denim short means it pairs well with any shoe, from sandals to sneakers and everything in between. Take the loafers that Eva Alt chose for them; they bring an almost business-like vibe that feels totally unexpected.

Midnight Stroll Sweatshort
Out From Under

Sweat shorts are the perfect slow summer day staple. Wear them with a crop top in a matching shade for a monochrome look, or opt for an equally comfy bright white tee, like Eva Alt.

Gingham Bike Short
Year of Ours

When Imani Randolph is in need of style inspo, she looks to film — and there's something about these pink gingham shorts that are reminiscent of a certain iconic '90s teen fashion comedy. Be bold and mix prints like she did, or pair them with the matching top for a bold co-ord moment.

High-Waited Skate Short
BDG

From beach days to rooftop nights, a good pair of denim shorts can go anywhere, especially when paired with a cute ruched cami, like Imani Randolph did here. As for shoes, try embracing the platform, like she has, and accessorize with romantic layered jewelry to complete the look.

Summer Cutoff Denim Short
BDG

When you want to switch things up from the classic T-shirt look, try styling your distressed denim shorts with an oversized button down. Do a French tuck like Lauren Chan, or throw it over a crop top for an effortless vibe.

Summer Cutoff Denim Short
BDG

Distressed denim shorts in a light wash may bring music festivals and outdoor concerts to mind, especially if you opt for combat boots instead of espadrilles. A slouchy knit cardi, like the one seen on Lauren Chan, gives it a preppy look that's more stylish than stuffy.

UO Exclusive Sweatshort
Champion

When the weather heats up, comfort is key. Spend this summer lounging around at home in these Champion sweatshorts, like Simone Smith. Paired with a two-tone jersey repping your favorite team, it feels high energy — even if you’re escaping summer temps in front of the chilly fridge door.

Girlfriend High-Waisted Denim Short
BDG

Faded black denim brings a touch of rock ‘n’ roll to any look, whether you wear it with a cheery tube top or a cropped tee. Simone Smith keeps the mood chill with a pair of chunky sneakers, but you can always take the look to a different level with strappy sandals or flatforms.