The tailored short is a must-have in my summer wardrobe – I love how versatile they are for going from casual school drop-offs to dressed up a bit for dinner! A few good options currently available are the Quince shorts in stretch crepe (10″ rise, 4.25″ inseam) and the Madewell Harlow shorts in drape twill (12″ rise, 4″ inseam). Although both inseams measure similarly, the Madewell shorts feel longer on my frame due to the rise (see on me). Another option is the Artizia Effortless short (in mini or mid thigh length), which start in size 00 and fit smaller at the waist.
The Quince shorts are my most-worn pair, and the elastic back makes them comfy for all day wear! The stretch crepe stays pretty wrinkle-free, the shorts are machine washable (I hang dry afterwards). You can find some more of my Quince try-on videos here.
My only complaints are they don’t make size 00 so these fit loose at my waist (sz 0 is 13″ across the waist when un-stretched), and I’m noticing pilling where I carry my straw tote. I hope to tackle the pilling with my sweater shaver, but just a heads up, if your handbag rubs against your shorts.
Below are a few ways I’ve been wearing these shorts, including some layered looks for cooler summer evenings and for transitioning into Fall!
1. Elevated top + slim belt + sandals
This style of top is super on trend this year and just flattering in general. Plus, the slightly longer cap-style sleeves make this a little more office-appropriate than a tank top. One downside of the Quince top is the black color is slightly faded (the white was too thin/sheer), and I’m wondering if it’ll fade more after wash & wear. I also just got the Madewell version in navy (sized up to XS) and love it.
2. lady jacket + slingbacks
3. Tank + denim jacket + sneakers
4. Off shoulder top + dressy sandals
5. relaxed blazer + kitten heels
6. summer weight sweater + mary jane flats
7. striped button down shirt + sandals
This last one is by far my most-worn combo, since I’ve been trying to wear more long sleeved outfits (for sun protection) that still feels cool and breathable in the summer heat! I just love the juxtaposition of the oversized, laid back menswear style shirt with a more tailored short cinched by a waist belt.
8. Relaxed stripe knit + ballet flats/sneakers
Hi Jean,
It’s great to see you style these shorts with different belts. I *love* my Edited Pieces belt and have the mini version on my wish list. It immediately elevates any outfit, does double duty being reversible, avoids that overhang of extra length, and is a cinch to use (pun intended.) Any chance you could make a post on how you choose different belts for various reasons and how it can change an outfit? Previously, I avoided all belts, but I get it now! Thanks so much for considering.
Hi Naia! I’m so thrilled that you love your Edited Pieces belt and that all the intentional little features have come in handy for you 🙂 I usually choose belts to either 1) visually break up an outfit with a contrasting color, 2) cinch in the waist to make a piece look more shapely, or 3) functionally to hold up looser bottoms, which I needed in this post with these shorts that are too loose. If I want a more discreet belt, I’ve been choosing a simple black one like the Madewell, otherwise the EP one truly works with everything! I also splurged on an Hermes kelly belt recently for the simple turnlock detail, but it doesn’t serve a functional purpose since the length slides around so it doesn’t hold loose bottoms up well.
Thank you so much!
How do the Quince shorts fare in the heat? I love the styling opportunities, but I’ve been wary to hit check out because of the polyester content…
Hi Alyssa, because they’re a looser fit throughout the leg I haven’t had any issues feeling hot in Boston weather!
Love these ideas, Jean. Can I please ask what are your thoughts on shorts in the office as business casual? I would love to try these looks but am afraid of the inseam appearing too short. Would love longer inseam suggestions if you have?
Hello – it totally depends on your office setting and what others (including more senior ppl) are wearing! If others are wearing shorts, then something like the Madewell pair honestly appears a little longer, and Abercrombie and Aritzia both have longer inseam tailored shorts. But if it’s a true business casual dress code setting, I personally wouldn’t do any shorts.
Hi there, I just wanted to say that this post is really great! The tips on styling tailored shorts and dresses are both practical and inspiring. I especially loved the suggestions on pairing them with different accessories. It’s always fun to learn new ways to elevate my wardrobe. Thanks for sharing.