Shorts for Women

You are ready for an awesome new summer wardrobe and the first step is buying yourself some new shorts. There are many things you will want to consider before buying yourself or someone else women’s shorts. Do you want colorful Bermudas for the neighborhood barbecue, cargo shorts for hiking or something else? Whether you’re looking to spend a little or a lot, there are plenty of styles and choices waiting for you.

Women's Shorts

Cotton for shorts

There are literally hundreds of options to choose from when it comes to the fabrics that are used to make women’s shorts. If you are looking for something to wear frequently that washes and wears well, keeps its shape and color, and is flexible as far as style, cotton is the way to go. For casual wear at the beach or in the garden, 100% cotton shorts are best. Most of the time, cotton is pre-shrunk so there is no need to worry about your shorts losing their shape or fit. Cotton shorts can simply be thrown into the washing machine on any temperature setting and thrown into the dryer, then ready to wear again, with no need to press.

Cotton Shorts

Other fabrics for shorts

Cotton twill and cotton blends are usually very soft, as well, but require more care than 100% cotton shorts and are not always as light and confortable in hot weather. However, they are also dressier in appearance. These shorts may be more what you are looking for if you plan on wearing a polo shirt or collared shirt. More often than not, cotton twill shorts will have a zipper and belt loops. They require lower temperatures when washing and drying, as well as typically requiring ironing. Included in cotton twill and blends are also denim, chino shorts and seersucker. When used in women’s shorts, these materials typically make for a cleaner cut and sleeker looking short. Put these kinds of shorts together with a shirt, pumps and a jacket for the perfect look for a casual evening on the town. Of course you can find shorts of all styles in synthetic materials like nylon.

Bermuda Shorts

Colors for shorts? First, khaki

When considering what colors and possibly even patterns you should buy when looking at shorts, you want to make sure that you coordinate your shorts with the shirts you plan on wearing or buying to wear. Every color of the rainbow is available in women’s shorts, and you want to keep your look fresh and attractive. It’s best to purchase several pairs of shorts in neutral and earth shades. Typically, there are several shades of khaki available and these are perfect for summer. You can wear khaki with virtually any color and any cut of shirt and look stunning. Khaki is timeless and classic and will be a staple of your summer wardrobe for years to come. Lighter shades of khaki work best with brighter colored tops while the darker shades of khaki go best with lighter or white shirts.

Khaki Shorts

Black is black

Everyone knows that black goes with everything. Make sure you have one or more pairs of black shorts. You can wear these with all sorts of tank tops, sleeved shirts and blazers. Black is perfect if you plan on wearing a top or jacket with a pattern or print, also. Just remember that black on black can often be a bad choice if the shades or tones of black don’t match perfectly. It’s usually best not to wear black shorts with a black shirt. Oh, and if you’re going to be in the sun, black and other dark colors are hotter to wear.

White shorts are good, too

While many women shy away from wearing white, it is a very flattering color, and there’s no more perfect time to wear white than during the hot summer months. Buy yourself at least one pair of white shorts to go with a contrasting top or with heels and a dressy shirt or jacket. White shorts are perfect for showing off your beautiful summer tan.

Cargo Shorts

Colors and patterns

To add something special to your wardrobe, try adding a few pairs of brighter colored shorts. Shades of red, blue and green are perfect for summer. Don’t purchase shades outside of your comfort zone. There is a wide spectrum of colors to choose from, muted to electric shades. These colors can perk up a white or light colored top or be worn as part of a color coordinated outfit. Use your best judgment when buying shorts with a pattern on them. Adding one or a few pieces like this can spice up your look. Wear these shorts with a light or color matching top and you’re sure to get noticed. But don’t go overboard with wild looking patterns, as they can detract from your overall look.

Patterned Shorts

Style and length

It is very important to get the length of shorts that are most comfortable and the most appropriate for the situation you are going to be wearing them for. Wearing shorts that are too short to a more formal event or shorts that are too long for a physical activity could cause you to have a less enjoyable time. Think about the look you’re trying to establish. Longer shorts are typically more tailored and dressier in appearance. Shorter shorts are typically worn while you are engaged in physical or sporting activities or trying to create a more casual look. There are shorts with dozens of pockets, some zippered, for hiking and camping, shorts with elastic waists, quick-drying shorts that will accomodate a quick dip. When buying shorts, try to envision the entire outfit you will be wearing and what you will be doing in them.

How much and what brands

Whether you are looking to spend a little or a lot, chances are you can find what you’re looking for in a variety of places. Many stores (retail storefront and online) offer shorts in all price points and styles. Just remember that you get what you pay for. You can easily find women’s shorts for $5, but don’t expect them to hold up for long. You can also spend $150 and have shorts that will last you for several summers. L.L.Bean and Land’s End are good places to start shopping, but there are numerous other department stores and women’s specialty shops that have shorts.