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It’s normal to shed a few layers and hike up the hemlines once the temperatures start heating up. But this summer will prove to be a record-breaking one—sartorially speaking, that is. The itsy-bitsy shorts outfit is taking over. In some cases, the designs are so tiny, they could easily fit into the underwear category.
Vogue’s Shorts Shopping List
- The Polished Design: Aritzia The Effortless short, $98
- The Poplin Short: Dôen Paige organic cotton-poplin shorts, $168
- The Denim Winner: Frame the mini short, $198
- The Pleated Pair: Veronica Beard Jaylen pleated shorts, $228
- The Warm-Weather Leather: The Frankie Shop Kate shorts, $230
- The Cool Crochet: My Beachy Side crochet hot shorts, $238
- The Fringe Frill: Marant Étoile Talapiz frayed silk shorts, $450
- The Investment-Worthy Pair: Ferragamo linen hot shorts, $560
Take Miu Miu’s drawstring design worn on the runway, for example. They leave little to the imagination, but they capture the comfort-first, playful, carefree attitude of the summer. “I love it! If I were younger, I would go out in panties!” Miuccia Prada told Vogue a few seasons ago.
Of course, it can be tough to make such daring lengths look chic—the key is to balance the proportions. An oversize blazer instantly elevates any outfit (and could provide a bit of extra coverage in the back). Or try a pussybow blouse, like the one below from Khaite. It makes the micro short trend feel instantly sophisticated, while a boxy polo—similar to Loewe’s viral take— adds a sporty attitude that feels effortlessly cool next to micro shorts.
For guidance this spring and summer, we’ve curated the ultimate shorts outfit guide. Discover five winning combinations to bookmark for the next time you wear shorts, plus a few options to shop now—all below.