Hell yes, you're excited to start wearing shorts! But when the weekdays roll around, you probably keep your cutoffs closed up in a drawer. We get it — office dress codes can be daunting, and you'd never want to cross the line. But a few smart, sophisticated styling moves are all you need to stay appropriate for work [1] while still letting your legs breathe. Sure, you could just keep one printed midi skirt in rotation, but who are you kidding? You're not that boring. Read on for 24 refreshing ways to liven up your Spring wardrobe [2] in the heat.
Use a tailored, knee-length design as part of your all-black foundation and complete with patent booties.
Invest in a summery set with a playful print and make sure the hemline's long enough. Contrast with stripes and a structured shoe.
Find a feminine detail like eyelet and play up the texture with a knit cardigan and strappy heels.
Coordinate your pastel shorts with a matching blazer and up the fancy factor with chandelier earrings and satin ankle-strap heels.
Invest in a skort and make your look feel fresh with a lightweight, patterned button-down.
Give your slouchy bermuda shorts a luxe touch with a statement belt and cold-shoulder top [3].
Leather always looks polished, especially when finished with your favorite accessories and standout pumps.
Break up plaid coordinates with a skinny scarf or a pussy-bow blouse. If your dress code is strict, accent your outfit with power pumps instead.
When paired together, monochrome separates extend the length of your look.
Source J.Crew, Zara, or a fun designer like DVF for high-shine, embellished shorts that are clearly next-level chic.
A little romper never hurt nobody — but if yours features a plunging neckline, nix the necklace and layer over a collared shirt.
Make knee-length shorts appear more casual by rolling up the sleeves of your blazer.
Suede designs are functional and look high quality. Show off your boho style by working them with a flouncy, long-sleeved blouse.
Go for a fully neutral ensemble that includes a fringed piece and let your shorts blend right in.
Culottes count, especially a crisp white pair with flared detail like these.
Layer your way to a stylish, mixed-media look by starting with chinos and finishing in pearls.
Play up the buttons on your flared shorts with complementary booties. Tuck in a sweater to show off your smart coordination.
Finish your outfit with striking details that take center stage, like a poppy clutch or knee-high zippered boots.
Go for an asymmetrical silhouette that gives the illusion of a skirt.
Keep things tidy in tweed by tucking in your mockneck and balancing your jacket on your shoulders.
A matching set will look just like a jumpsuit when you maintain clean lines.
High-quality denim that's not distressed but totally tailored looks just right with a leather belt.
Finish your outfit with a tank top that mimics the flow of your shorts' silhouette.
Standout designer pieces in bright shades and avant-garde shapes show you're mindful about your look.