:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/062525-shorts-to-work-soc-79fd33fb326e44b7ba0215ef64520632.jpg "How to Wear Shorts to Work This Summer")
As a professional fashion editor, I’m probably not the best person to give advice on business casual workwear. I personally wouldn’t last ten minutes under a strict professional dress code—my idea of an office-appropriate outfit is black lipstick and a tattered Justin Bieber T-shirt (yes, I actually wore that to work). But what I can help you with is stylishly breaking outdated workwear rules—and getting away with it. That, dear reader, is my specialty.
I personally love to push the bounds of professional dress. I’ve rolled up to a Manhattan high-rise wearing everything from sweatsuits with high heels to blazers without pants, all while garnering compliments from my colleagues and managers. And though I wouldn’t advise trying that yourself (unless your boss is really, really cool), there is one outdated workwear rule you absolutely should break: wearing shorts to work.
Though they’re certainly not standard by business professional means, shorts actually can work for most other dress codes—if the hemline is just right, the fabric looks expensive, and the styling is on-point. Paired with a matching blazer and high heels, a sleek pair of high-rise, crepe Bermuda shorts can excel under almost any dress code. Want to learn more? Keep reading for all the fashion girl-approved ways to wear shorts to work.
With a White Blouse and Zebra Print Belt
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I’d like to start this piece off by reiterating my previous statement about Bermuda shorts—because I was absolutely correct. A crisp, pleated pair styled with an elegant ruched blouse and a fun statement belt? Your boss will not only love this ’fit, she’ll probably copy it herself.
With a Bit of Preppy Flare
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Not all office dress codes are created equal. Some professionals actually do get to have fun with their workwear—not just fashion editors—and those people should screenshot this look for later. A playful pair of plaid shorts can work with everything from turtlenecks and blazers to sweaters and button-downs. They can feel edgy-cool or posh and professional, depending on how you style them.
In a Vivid Hue
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This might sound crazy, but hear me out. Without the hair shoes and XL handbag shown above (which I actually love, BTW), a cherry red suit can actually be really wearable. Try styling it with a pair of loafers and a simple black necktie for a more subdued look.
With a Blazer and Platforms
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Even denim shorts can be appropriate in a more relaxed workplace environment. Shop for a long-line pair in a chic dark wash, then layer them with platform sandals and a structured, oversized blazer. Trust me, you’ll get mileage out of this outfit combo through summer and well into fall.
A Stylish Striped Co-Ord
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A simple poplin co-ord with delicate pinstripes mimics a traditional button-down in a way that feels relaxed, but still work-appropriate. A well-ironed set (no wrinkles, please), style simply looks perfectly professional.
With a Simple White Button-Down
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This outfit is a fashion editor favorite—chic and effortless, with a little bit of edge. I recommend duplicating it exactly, but consider replacing these holey shorts for a non-distressed pair—just for a touch more professionalism.
Innovative Color-Blocking
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Allow me to make another case for the vibrant short suit. Start with the hue of your choosing, then add accessories (a handbag, shoes, etc.) in a contrasting color. Burgundy and crimson, tangerine and robin’s egg, butter yellow and chocolate brown—mix up any of this season’s food-inspired color trends for an unexpectedly cool mix of hues.
All-Black With a Splash of Leopard
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This styling trick is one of my personal favorites. A simple splash of leopard—either via shoulder bag or a pair of playful shoes—will make your standard all-black ’fit feel runway-inspired. This applies to bottoms of all lengths, BTW, not just shorts.
Pretty Tweed
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Insider tip: A luxe tweed fabric can make virtually any silhouette feel posh and downright professional. Expertly tackle shorts in the workplace, by pairing a tweed pair with a matching top or jacket—and don’t forget the pearls.
Breezy and Neutral
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I once wrote an entire story for InStyle about how to wear a dress shirt backward and the hack just so happens to look great with a pair of loose-fit shorts. If this feels a bit too avant-garde for your tastes, any neutral blouse will do. Just be sure to finish with sleek black accessories to pull the outfit together.
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