10 Pairs of Dressy Shorts for Summer

If you want to complete your summer wardrobe with flattering dressy shorts, then this guide is for you! Shorts can be flattering on all body shapes, and if you're comfortable showing off your legs, there's no reason not to stay cool this summer.

I'm kind of picky when it comes to shorts. I used to be all about short denim, but as I grew out of my teens and early twenties, I realized that my taste in clothing has changed. Don't get me wrong, I still like denim shorts, but they should be a bit longer and high-waisted to cover my belly.

Knee-length shorts are my favorites. Oh, and if they're high-waisted, even better! That's why I searched the web for some affordable yet cute and dressy shorts. I emphasize the word dressy because I picked shorts that are suitable for all ages and all occasions. These shorts are great for a late-night dinner, a walk on the beach, vacation, and even work (if you're allowed to wear shorts).

The key is to combine elegant and casual clothing to create a summer outfit that is wearable and timeless.

So, let's get started and check out my recommendations for the 10 best summer shorts.

Disclaimer: This blog post contains affiliate links. As part of the Amazon Associates Program, I earn a commission on qualifying purchases.

1. Elegant Chino Shorts ($22)

The Amazon Chino Shorts are made of a cotton and elastane blend that's a bit stretchy but still well-fitting. The shorts come in a variety of colors and they are versatile basics for any outfit.

• You can dress them up or down

• Mid-waist

• The material looks more expensive than it is

2. Kingfen Drawstring Casual Shorts ($21-25)

The Kingfen shorts are a cotton and linen blend with an elasticated waistband. This makes them very comfortable to wear even after a large meal. They're still airy though and the skin can breathe.

• High waisted

• Loose fit for added comfort

• Many color options

3. Lee Women's Regular Fit Chino Shorts ($21-46)

A white pair of Bermuda shorts are a summer wardrobe must-have. Lee Chino Shorts are made of a cotton blend and come just above the knee or knee-length if you're shorter.

• white shorts flatter most women

• they're perfect for dressing up or down

• stretchy materials

4. Dickie's Women's Perfect Shape Denim Knee-Length Shorts ($28-44)

These Dickie's Bermuda Denim Shorts are knee-length so you don't have to feel like your denim is too short to cover the bum. They are a dark denim wash and have no holes or rips, so they're classy and dressy enough for any occasion.

• Dickie's makes high-quality denim

• Roll-up hems

• Flex tummy control panel for a slimmer silhouette

5. Gloria Vanderbilt Women's Amanda Basic Jean Short ($34)

These Gloria Vanderbilt Shorts are shorter than the other options but the floral print makes them look more elegant. If you're comfortable showing some skin, these have a great fit.

• Vintage floral print

• 98% cotton material

• Great to pair with basic tops

• Cover the buttocks

Chino and Bermuda shorts are back in trend in 2021. High-waisted shorts are also still on-trend and paper bag styles are making a comeback too. I recommend pairing shorts with a sweater vest, oversized t-shirt, and some wedges, clogs, or flats.

An open-button shirt paired with loose-fitting denim dad jeans is another stylish option. To dress it up and make it more elegant, choose a white shirt and leave only a few buttons undone.

6. Dokotoo Women's Ruffle Hem Shorts ($24-28)

Ruffle hem shorts like these Dokotoo flowy shorts are a great way to incorporate feminine girly pieces into your summer wardrobe. They don't sit tight around the thighs and flatter all body shapes.

• Leisurely fit

• Feminine and elegnat

• Pleating and ruffle hem is flattering

7. Rekucci Comfort Pull-On Modern City Shorts ($29-32)

The Rekucci City Shorts look and feel like dress pants except they're knee-length shorts. These shorts are suitable for all ages and the black color makes them dressy-casual. You can pair them with fancy tops.

• Work appropriate

• Rayon, nylon, and spandex blend makes them stretchy

• Have elegant faux pockets and come in many colors

8. Lee Women's Plus Size Relaxed-fit Bermuda Short ($29-35)

For a relaxed and comfy fit, I recommend these plus-size Lee Bermuda Denim Shorts. They are available in 2 colors and sit mid-waist. They're not tight around the thighs so they look flattering.

• Made of a stretchy denim material (cotton blend)

• Five-pocket styling

• Relaxed fit and knee-length

9. Milumia Casual Self Tie Waist Elastic Waist Shorts ($16-23)

These high-waisted bowtie Milumia shorts are perfect for a date-night outfit. They are feminine and elegant and you can pair them with a crop top or a fancy yet basic shirt. The bow adds a touch of elegance to these pants.

• Made of soft and stretchy fabric

• Come in many feminine colors

• They are belted so they fit well

10. The Drop Millie Loose-Fit Long Linen Walk Short ($45)

You can't go wrong with long linen shorts in the summer heat. These loose fit linen walk shorts are the perfect 100% linen shorts for an elegant yet sporty look. You can dress them up for dinner and events or pair them with a t-shirt for sporting events.

• Elastic closure so they don't sit tight on the stomach

• Has side pockets

• Elegant color and loose-fit

Now that you've seen my top picks for summer shorts, I hope you feel inspired to create cute outfits that will take you through the summer and will still flatter you in the upcoming years too! Remember that one of the secrets to looking good in shorts is to pair them with timeless sandals, wedges, or flats and simple tops.

#summerfashion #shorts #summeroutfits