The Denim Trend Fashion People Are Swapping Short Shorts For

For some of us, digging out our denim collection has taken more persuasion this summer than ever. As we swing between comfy outfits and dressing for actual real-life events and occasions (remember those?), jeans have had to settle at the back of the closet—until now, that is. Jean shorts are making it easier to step back into the world of denim, and nope, we're not talking the usual cut-offs. It's all about longer hemlines this season. 

The laid-back appeal of denim combined with the chic Bermuda length creates a hybrid that has really captured the imaginations of fashion people. Although it brings an air of nostalgia, the look feels fresh and versatile enough to wear around the clock. There are so many non-dated ways to style shorts this summer, and the long denim pairs are already being backed by insiders everywhere. It's not that short shorts and cut-offs are "out." It's just that there's a new kid on the block, and they deserve some attention.

The golden rule is to stick to an above-the-knee length. The look isn't culottes or leading into pedal-pusher territory. The effect can be effortless thanks to the extra coverage, and you can tailor the look to your preferred fit, from loose, baggy boyfriend styles found at the likes of & Other Stories, Arket and COS to Saint Laurent–approved skinnies. 

Intrigued to know how to wear long jean shorts and where to find the best ones? We'll let some of the most stylish women show you the way…

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(Image credit: @alyssainthecity)

Style Notes: Alyssa's combination of a cute blouse and heels makes for a good contrast against boyish denim shorts.

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(Image credit: @greceghanem)

Style Notes: Dark denim has a place in summer wardrobes thanks to shorts. Grece sticks to a mono colour palette to keep the look more chic than skater. 

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(Image credit: @couturekulten)

Style Notes: Crochet + denim = a summer saviour. This easy outfit equation is one to copy from here on out. 

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(Image credit: @abimarvel)

Style Notes: Long jean shorts don't have to be touching your knee. Make like Abisola and go for an in-between Bermuda and hot-pants style. 

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(Image credit: @veronikaheilbrunner)

Style Notes: Not a fan of baggy Bermuda legs? Take tips from Veronika with a skinny pair and let them be your summer soirée look. 

Shop the Best Long Jean Shorts

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Freelance Fashion Editor

Harriet Davey is a freelance fashion editor who has been part of Who What Wear's extended team since 2017. She previously worked in print at Look magazine and has since worked across print, digital and social for many other titles, including British Vogue, Stylist, Grazia, Refinery29 and Marie Claire. Also a stylist, Harriet has had the pleasure of producing cover shoots and editorials along with commercial shoots for brands including Boux Avenue, Watches of Switzerland, Benefit Cosmetics and Revolution. To add to this, Harriet also works in live TV styling for ITV’s This Morning.Back to Who What Wear. With hundreds of published stories on site, Harriet knows what the WWW reader wants. Keeping up to date with the latest It buys and runway trends, she can guarantee to keep you one step ahead of the most stylish people.When not writing or styling, Harriet loves to go shopping (yes, more fashion). If she’s not in a local Hackney bar or restaurant, you can find her forever searching for her next holiday destination.