“Who wears short, shorts, we wear short shorts”

Did you know that those lyrics are from a real song called Short Shorts by the Royal Teens in 1957 and not just the Nair commercial? Just a little trivia that you never when you might need it. 🙂 But onto the topic of shorts.

Shorts can be tricky . . . you want to find a style and length that you feel comfortable in! As I have gotten older I have struggled with what’s appropriate and what I feel comfortable and confident in. This goes for everyday shorts I wear all summer down to my running shorts where I don’t want to be in booty shorts but want to be cool and comfortable when I am working out or hanging out.

There are so many different short options out there that are cute no matter the length or style – it’s just finding what works for you!

Here are some tips for finding the right short: You want them to fit well, you don’t want the leg opening to be tight or the shorts to be too tight in the hips and rear. Shorts can go really wrong when they don’t fit well. Don’t be afraid to size up if needed for a better fit – you will feel more confident and be happier in the long run.

The next big decision is the short length. Typically shorts are broken down into 3 lengths – short (3 1/2″ – 4″ inseam), mid-length (5″ – 7″) and Bermuda/long (7″ – 11″). I would say the majority of women feel most comfortable with mid-length but so much of your decision will also depend on the style of short and/or the occasion.

I most often wear 4″- 5″ but I also have some longer shorts that I may wear for a more conservative look.  Some women really don’t like their legs or they’re very modest so they prefer longer shorts. Others like to keep the shorts shorter, and that’s fine too, I say as long as you don’t have any bootie hanging out it’s all good. The key is finding shorts you are most comfortable wearing.

Finally, always, check out at the rear view. Shorts may look fine from the front but then you check the rear and no good – check out where the pockets are, do they give you a wedgie (yes, it happens), are your panty lines showing and how is the overall look from the back. Just an FYI, seamless underwear is your best bet for avoiding those panty lines.

So here are my favorite summer shorts right now. I would recommend you always make sure you have the basic colors of shorts in your closet – white, black or navy, khaki, and denim – they go with everything and then you can play around with patterns and colors.  I realize most of these shorts pictured are on the shorter side of the shorts spectrum, so below I have broken out my favorite shorts by length so there is something for everyone.

rolled 4″ denim shorts || Chambray shorts || 4″ midi denim short || scalloped hem shorts || khaki mid-rise  3.5″ || gingham 5″ short || linen 4″ drawstring shorts || Nike Tempo running shorts || Pixie black shorts 3.5″ || polka dot 5″ shorts

More on some of my favorites:

These cut-offs by American Eagle are so comfortable and I love the 4″ length. I find myself grabbing them on the few warm days we have had because they are so stretchy! Let’s face it cut-offs look great with a t-shirt, tank top or a flowy top or sweater . . . okay with everything 🙂  My other favorite jean shorts are from LOFT – they have a great rolled denim short and Old Navy boyfriend jean shorts are super cute and comfortable. All of these jean shorts run true to size.

AE midi cut off short || Navy printed blouse || Gigi Thong Sandals

I have had really good luck with the Old Navy Pixie Shorts with the 3½” inseam. They fit really well through the leg and they also come in 5″ and 7″ and many cute colors. These fit true to size for me . . . I am a size 4. Old Navy mid-rise shorts are also super cute with lots of fun patterns and are available in 3.5″, 5″  and 7″ lengths.  I find I have to size up in those to a size 6. Old Navy has great shorts at amazing prices!!

Pixie shorts || Chambray shirt

Gingham shorts || Rounded V-neck t-shirt

I love these scalloped edged shorts by LOFT! I have them in chambray and white – they are a great dressier short.  They are fun to wear with wedges for date night or out to brunch.  J Crew Factory also has scalloped hemmed shorts as well that are super popular. These shorts run very true to size.

Chambray scalloped shorts || Red off the shoulder tee || Wedges

Lastly, I have to share my favorite workout/running short by Nike.  In the warmer weather I don’t like running in leggings but finding a good running short that isn’t too short and doesn’t ride up is not that easy. Many times there is too much fabric and they can feel bulky or I am constantly readjusting the short – the key is to find a workout short that you don’t even notice.  Nike tempo running shorts are perfect – a great length, lightweight, no riding up and yes, I don’t notice them. 🙂

Nike Tempo Short || Nike React Epic running shoes

Below are shorts by the length to help you find the shorts that work for you.

Short shorts – 3 1/2 ” – 4 “:

Midi shorts –  5″- 7″:

Bermuda – 7″ – 11″:

Find a couple pair of shorts that work for you and wear them proudly this summer! And if you have a favorite short, please share it with us. 🙂