When summer comes, some style purists become disillusioned. Even today, a cliché persists: the summer period does not allow you to have fun with clothes and have style . However, we have already proven the opposite 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. They can also be seen as "too casual" and therefore seem impossible to look stylish in. Some people worry that they might be too tight and uncomfortable. Others feel uncomfortable wearing bottoms that reveal so much of their body and might not be a good fit for their body shape.
However, shorts are the ultimate versatile piece and fit many styles. Between pleated chino shorts and denim shorts, the possibilities for outfits and looks are endless!
To obtain this coherent and satisfactory rendering, you must start by choosing the right length. Explanation.
Choose the right length
The perfect length (almost) does not exist. The most important thing is to harmonize all the clothes that make up the outfit . To do this, a few tips will help you find the ideal length. Moreover, by abuse of language, it has become common to call "Bermuda shorts" "shorts". Except that shorts are shorter, and Bermuda shorts are a little longer. Here is how to differentiate these two cuts.
1. Bermuda shorts (or long shorts)
For a more classic silhouette, opt for Bermuda shorts (which you can 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
Some Bermuda shorts have sartorial finishes , with marked pleats, or double straps inspired by "gurkha pants". Make sure to pair them with a suitable top and pair of shoes: guaranteed refinement. And you won't even be (too) hot, either!
To make sure you wear Bermuda shorts correctly, this infographic should help you see things more clearly.
2. The shorts
For a more daring silhouette, opt for "real" shorts. Also know that by optical effect, they have 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 , associates it with simple clothes (white t-shirt, khaki cap, etc.), and accessorizes it to give relief. To find inspiration for looks with this look, we strongly advise you to subscribe to his account!
Also note that if you find your shorts a little too long, you can make a light hem (not too thick, nor too long) so that they fall above your knee.
Take your body shape into account
No matter what your body type is, clothes will always give you the opportunity to enhance your figure.
For shorts, it is strongly advised not to wear them too close to the body . Whether you are tall, short, thin, muscular or corpulent, keep some room so as not to hinder the movements of your legs. So, do not hesitate to choose your shorts one size larger than your usual size.
You can also play on the height of the waist: a higher waist will make you gain in comfort as well as elegance. The only problem is that it will add a layer of fabric at the belly 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 is wearing cream shorts, which are short and loose. Despite his voluminous thighs, his shorts do not stick to his skin.
On top, to keep the fullness of the bottom, he pairs his shorts with a white t-shirt and a brown Nike overshirt. Attentive to detail, he accessorizes his outfit with a beige fanny pack and a navy blue cap. Enough to give you some ideas for looks this summer.
2. For a slim person
If you don't know him, @brockalishus is an American fashion Instagrammer. He perfectly combines workwear and skater influences. Despite his slim figure, he doesn't hesitate to wear loose, even very loose, clothes .
For this look, he chose to wear black wide denim Bermuda shorts, 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 all 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 his outfit with his glasses, his cap and his necklaces.
Pair it with tailored tops
The important thing when wearing shorts is to keep consistency in terms of volumes between the bottom and the top . But not only that; you also have to keep a style match between the different clothes.
For example, for a casual look, you can wear your shorts with a basic t-shirt or a light shirt.
A basic outfit, but completely mastered
To combine casual and dressy, you can bet on a polo shirt, the result will also be very satisfying. Moreover, for an even more dressy look, the combination of a collared top (shirt, popover or polo) with tapered shorts works wonderfully.
Of course, you can have fun by layering your clothes , with a tank top and a shirt for example. Jordan, editor at BonneGueule, tried 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 last. For example, Jordan still tried the denim shorts/jacket combo. An unusual combination, which nevertheless works perfectly.
The most important thing in the end, as said above, is not the piece itself, but rather the association you will make with it. So try, have fun, no one will judge you and it is the best way to test its limits and understand the garment in its use and its use.
The materials to favor
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, choose natural materials . It is important that the fabric of the chosen shorts has hold , that it is sufficiently robust .
For this, look at the labels . We recommend shorts made of 100% thick linen or 100% cotton. Cotton and linen shorts are perfect for warm days, as 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 are to 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 attached to your belt loop can also be very effective visually.
If your shorts have a drawstring, make sure you tie them properly: it's the kind of little detail that makes all 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 , choosing the right length , consistency between the pieces chosen and well-thought-out accessories . By following these tips, you can create casual and elegant outfits for the hottest days .
To learn more about the piece of the same family, namely Bermuda shorts, I invite you to consult this article . If you are hesitating between shorts, Bermuda shorts or capri pants, we have compared them in an article that will help you see more clearly right here .
By the way, you will find our own shorts here , perfect for letting your legs get some air.
And as usual, we're here to answer your questions in the comments below.
