If I was going to point to one summer piece that is the subject of the fiercest debate, it would be the denim shorts. From the teeny tiny Daisy Dukes to the baggy jorts beloved by the likes of Hailey Bieber, it feels like every year a new slew of denim short trends roll around, with one side eager to embrace the look and the other side rolling their eyes. Historically, I've leaned more towards the latter group, but mainly because I never found a pair I thought looked remotely flattering. Sure, I owned a "just in case" pair to throw on over a swimsuit on holiday or to wear for a day of running errands on an unusually hot day, but I never actually thought they looked any good.
But recently, I've discovered that the world of denim shorts has evolved. Styles are no longer restricted to the rigid minis of my early Noughties youth. These days, designer brands and high street favourites alike have massively extended the options to encompass every personal style and body shape.
Perhaps as a result of this, I've spotted more and more influencers showcasing fresh ways to style this summer staple. A not-so-quick scroll on social media has served up plenty of styling inspiration that proves that denim shorts don't have to be limited to being a casual throw-on item. Sure, when paired with a t-shirt and trainers, they'll only ever look relaxed—but swap the t-shirt for an oversized linen shirt and the trainers for the very on-trend Fisherman sandals, and you've got something altogether more put together and polished. Go for heeled sandals and a blazer and you're even more elevated.
Scroll on to see some of the best looks that demonstrate how you can upgrade your denim cut-offs.
6 Elegant Denim Shorts Outfits to Wear This Summer:
1. Embroidered Blouse + Trainers
Style Notes: The key to making denim shorts look more elevated is to balance them out with a more sophisticated top. And as Olivia's outfit proves, one of the easiest ways to do this in the summer months is by opting for a embroidered breezy blouse—a truly timeless look.
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The detail on this blouse makes it look seriously elevated.
I'm such a fan of Abercrombie's denim.
Follow Olivia's example and upgrade your denim shorts with a pair of sleek designer trainers.
The coquettish look is very much still on trend.
2. Blazer + Knee-High Boots
Style Notes: As I noticed on a recent trip, New Yorkers are really backing the knee high boots in summer look. Give it a Scandi spin and follow Amaka's example of pairing yours with baggy shorts and an oversized blazer for an effortlessly cool outfit.
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Bandeau tops are a big trend this summer, and this one feels truly classic.
I personally love my denim shorts to be a high-rise fit.
The oversized blazer is perfect for layering.
These boots will also see you through the cold months.
3. Layers + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: We all know that British summer weather can be unpredictable, to say the least. Be ready for all eventualities by opting for a layered look—the neutral knit and classic black ballet flats really upgrade this jorts-based ensemble.
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A white t-shirt is a summer essential.
This pale beige tone is perfect for layering on cooler summer days.
The denim Bermuda short is the style to know this season.
Help define the waist with a classic black belt.
Ballet flats continue to be the must-have flat shoe.
Woven bags are a top trend, and a Bottega Veneta Intrecciato style is a designer piece well worth the investment.
4. Two-Tone Tank + Fisherman Sandals
Style Notes: Thanks to The Row, Fisherman sandals have become a top footwear trend this season, and are arguably the most sophisticated flat sandal you can wear in the hot months. Opting for a two-tone tank instead of a simple block colour also just makes the whole look seem more considered.
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This tank exudes a specific kind of French elegance.
I love the relaxed fit of these long shorts.
Just the right hint of hardware—swap for a gold buckled style if that's your metal of choice.
The Row pair may be in short supply, but I personally think the contrast stitching of this JW Anderson pair would tie in so well with the two-tone tank.
A cat-eye is one of the most refined sunglass styles, in my opinion.
5. White Shorts + Tanks + Silk Scarf
Style Notes: Never underestimate the power of accessories. Anabel's silk scarf and seriously chic tote really elevate this otherwise understated minimalist look of long white shorts and a classic black tank.
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I think the high neckline of this tank makes it look extra polished.
Such a gorgeous pair.
If you don't want to go for the headscarf look, you could also tie this around your neck or the strap of your tote.
I've spotted so many influencers in Sleepers flip-flops.
If I was going to invest in a printed designer tote, it would be this one.
6. Striped Shirt + Thong Slides
Style Notes: If you're looking for an elevated everyday denim shorts look, this is the perfect ensemble to emulate. An oversized shirt always looks effortlessly cool, and is just that bit more polished than a casual t-shirt.
Shop the Look:
A breezy, oversized linen shirt always looks effortlessly cool.
These shorts are a big bestseller—get your pair while you can.
I appreciate the subtle lift these sandals provide.
Celine sunglasses are undeniably chic.
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