24 Clever Ways to Wear Your Shorts to Work

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 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 in the heat.

Billy Farrell Agency

Use a tailored, knee-length design as part of your all-black foundation and complete with patent booties.

Billy Farrell Agency

Invest in a summery set with a playful print and make sure the hemline's long enough. Contrast with stripes and a structured shoe.

Getty | Daniel Zuchnik

Find a feminine detail like eyelet and play up the texture with a knit cardigan and strappy heels.

Getty | Daniel Zuchnik

Coordinate your pastel shorts with a matching blazer and up the fancy factor with chandelier earrings and satin ankle-strap heels.

Getty | Daniel Zuchnik

Invest in a skort and make your look feel fresh with a lightweight, patterned button-down.

Getty | Daniel Zuchnik

Give your slouchy bermuda shorts a luxe touch with a statement belt and cold-shoulder top.

Getty | Daniel Zuchnik

Leather always looks polished, especially when finished with your favorite accessories and standout pumps.

Getty | Melodie Jeng

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.

Getty | Timur Emek

When paired together, monochrome separates extend the length of your look.

Getty | Vivien Killilea

Source J.Crew, Zara, or a fun designer like DVF for high-shine, embellished shorts that are clearly next-level chic.

IMAXTREE | Alessia Gammarota

A little romper never hurt nobody — but if yours features a plunging neckline, nix the necklace and layer over a collared shirt.

IMAXTREE | Alessia Gammarota

Make knee-length shorts appear more casual by rolling up the sleeves of your blazer.

IMAXTREE | valentinavaldinoci.com

Suede designs are functional and look high quality. Show off your boho style by working them with a flouncy, long-sleeved blouse.

IMAXTREE | vincenzo grillo

Culottes count, especially a crisp white pair with flared detail like these.

IMAXTREE | vincenzo grillo

Layer your way to a stylish, mixed-media look by starting with chinos and finishing in pearls.

IMAXTREE | vincenzo grillo

Play up the buttons on your flared shorts with complementary booties. Tuck in a sweater to show off your smart coordination.

IMAXTREE | vincenzo grillo

Finish your outfit with striking details that take center stage, like a poppy clutch or knee-high zippered boots.

IMAXTREE | vincenzo grillo

Go for an asymmetrical silhouette that gives the illusion of a skirt.

Mark Iantosca

Keep things tidy in tweed by tucking in your mockneck and balancing your jacket on your shoulders.

Mark Iantosca

High-quality denim that's not distressed but totally tailored looks just right with a leather belt.

Mark Iantosca

Finish your outfit with a tank top that mimics the flow of your shorts' silhouette.

Mark Iantosca

Standout designer pieces in bright shades and avant-garde shapes show you're mindful about your look.