When summer arrives, some style purists become disillusioned. Even today, a cliché remains: the summer period does not allow you to have fun with clothing and have style . However, we have already proven the opposite to you right here !
Layering, beautiful materials, ideal cut... all the tips that allow you to differentiate your style in winter are also valid in summer. And the summer period can even count on an additional ally: shorts . You don't know how to approach this piece? Here are the five tips to follow to wear it with style.
Even in summer, its style can be developed
Shorts can be intimidating. It can also be considered "too casual" and, therefore, seem like it's impossible to be stylish with it. Some fear that it may lack comfort by being too tight. Others do not feel comfortable wearing bottoms that reveal so much of the body and may not be suitable for their body shape.
However, shorts are the versatile piece par excellence and go well with several styles. Between pleated chino shorts and denim shorts, the possibilities for outfits and finishes are numerous!
To obtain this consistent and satisfactory result, you must start by choosing your length carefully. Explanation.
Choose the right length
The perfect length (almost) does not exist. The main thing is, above all, to harmonize all the clothes that make up the outfit . To do this, there are some little tips that will help you find the ideal length. Furthermore, through abuse of language, it has become common to call “Bermuda shorts” “shorts”. Except that shorts are shorter, and Bermuda shorts a little longer. Here's how to tell the difference between these two cuts.
1. Bermuda shorts (or long shorts)
For a more classic silhouette, opt for Bermuda shorts (which you have the right to call long shorts, let's be crazy). For Bermuda shorts, the right length is somewhere between mid-thigh and just above the knee . This length is versatile and comfortable.
The perfect example for the classic length, just above the knee
There are certain Bermuda shorts with sartorial finishes , with marked darts, or double straps inspired by “gurkha pants”. Be sure to pair them with a suitable top and pair of shoes: refinement guaranteed. And you won't even be (too) hot, too!
To make sure you wear Bermuda shorts correctly, this infographic should help you see things more clearly.
2. Shorts
For a more daring silhouette, opt for “real” shorts. Also note that by optical effect, it has the power to lengthen the leg! Ideal if you want to look more slender.
For example here, @willhalbert totally understands the issues surrounding shorts. He follows the vintage line of the piece , combines it with simple clothing (white t-shirt, khaki cap...), accessorizes it to give relief. To find inspiration for looks with this look, we highly recommend subscribing to her account!
Please note that if you find your shorts a little too long, you can hem them slightly (not too thick or too long) so that they fall above your knee.
Consider your body shape
No matter your body type, clothes will always offer you the opportunity to highlight your figure.
For shorts, it is strongly recommended not to wear them too close to the body . Whether you are tall, short, thin, muscular or corpulent, maintain fullness so as not to hinder the movements of your legs. So, don't hesitate to choose your shorts one size larger than your usual size.
You can also play with the height of the waist: a higher waist will give you greater comfort as well as elegance. The only problem being that this will add a layer of fabric at the stomach level, which means an additional risk of being hot! It's up to you to decide...
Some examples :
1. For a muscular person
For this example, here is fashion influencer @PaulBinam . Athletic physique, he is tall and muscular . In this look, he wears cream shorts, which are short and loose. Despite her voluminous thighs, her shorts don't stick to her skin.
Up top, to maintain the fullness of the bottom, he pairs his shorts with a white t-shirt and a brown Nike overshirt. Paying attention to detail, he accessorized his outfit with a beige fanny pack and a navy blue cap. Enough to give you look ideas for this summer.
2. For a slim person
If you don't know him, @brockalishus is an American fashion Instagrammer. It perfectly combines workwear and skater influences. Despite his slender figure, he does not hesitate to wear loose, even very loose, clothes .
For this look, he chose to wear black Bermuda shorts in wide denim, a pair of white sneakers and a yellow print t-shirt. Nothing could be simpler and yet, it works. The volumes are well chosen , the colors complement each other well. No need for more.
3. For a person with an imposing build
@romigourmi has been a member of the BonneGueule community for several years, and with a style of his own that he has cultivated over time.
For this look, he totally respects his body shape, with loose pieces. His ecru shorts, his beige t-shirt and his denim shirt match each other in terms of cuts. Everything falls perfectly. In a workwear style, Romi does not hesitate to accessorize her outfit with her glasses, her cap and her necklaces.
Pair it with suitable tops
The important thing when wearing shorts is to maintain consistency in terms of volume between the bottom and the top . But not only ; it is also necessary to maintain a concordance in style between the different garments.
For example, for a casual look, you can wear your shorts with a basic t-shirt or light shirt.
A basic outfit, but completely mastered
To combine casual and dressy, you can opt for a polo shirt, the result will also be very satisfactory. Moreover, for an even dressier look, pairing a collared top (shirt, popover or polo shirt) with tapered shorts works wonderfully.
Obviously, you can have fun by layering your clothes , with a tank top and a shirt for example. Jordan, editor at BonneGueule, has also tried his hand at the exercise. For the most curious among you, find the video right here .
But there are still a multitude of layering possibilities, each more improbable than the next. For example, Jordan again tried the denim shorts/jacket combo. Unusual association, which nevertheless works perfectly.
The most important thing ultimately, as said above, is not the piece itself, but rather the association you make with it. So try, have fun, no one will judge you and it's the best way to test your limits and understand the clothing in its use and use.
Materials to prioritize
At BonneGueule, what we like is beautiful materials, with texture and character. For shorts, it is essential to select an exceptional material to make a difference. So favor natural materials . It is important that the fabric of the chosen shorts has strength and is sufficiently robust .
To do this, look at the labels . We recommend 100% heavy linen or 100% cotton shorts. Cotton and linen shorts are perfect for hot days because they are lightweight and breathable.
The two materials above are linen (left image) and cotton (right image). These two shorts are in exceptional materials, French linen on the left and Japanese fabric on the right, which immediately gives a little “je ne sais quoi” to your outfit .
Other natural materials should be considered, such as hemp.
A beautiful blend of organic cotton and hemp
Accessorize with care
Accessorizing your shorts is an essential part of making them look great . Adding a leather belt will add a touch of elegance to your look.
This braided leather belt, for example, will allow you to take your shorts out of the ordinary. A small key ring hanging from your belt loop can also be very effective visually.
If your shorts have a drawstring, make sure to tie them well: it's the kind of little detail that makes the difference.
For the rest, don't hesitate to add a cap, sunglasses , a bandana or any other accessory to give character to your outfit .
Wearing shorts with style and confidence is ultimately a question of balance , good choice of length , consistency between the chosen pieces and well thought-out accessories . By following these tips, you can create casual and stylish outfits for the hottest days .
To find out more about the piece from the same family, I called the Bermuda shorts, I invite you to consult this article . If you are hesitating between shorts, Bermuda shorts or cropped pants, we have compared them in an article that will help you see things more clearly right here .
Besides, here are our own Bermuda shorts and shorts, perfect for letting your legs get some air:
And as usual, we are here to answer your questions in the comments below.
