Shorts Alternatives for Summer
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I went through a period when I never wore shorts during the summer. I just didn’t like how they looked on me or how they felt. At the time I really didn’t understand inseams and I didn’t try a variety of styles to learn what I liked on my body. That’s not the case anymore; I fully embrace shorts during the summertime! I’ve learned what length feels good to me as well as what styles I like. Still, I do get bored with shorts and like to rock some other summer looks sometimes. Whether or not you are a shorts wearer, there are plenty of alternatives for summer to keep you cool and stylish.
Pants
I love pants and a tank top in the summer. Most of the time I’ll opt for cropped pants but full-length linen pants work well, too. One frequent complaint I hear about linen is that it wrinkles. Yes, it does! But if you can accept that, linen really is a dreamy fabric for steamy summer days. Other fabrics to consider for warmer days are cotton and tencel. I’ve had these linen pants in my closet since last summer and they are so soft and comfortable. I wore them all over Italy in record-breaking heat last summer, and styled them with sneakers, Birkestocks, heeled sandals and everything in between. A year later and they’re still in great shape and haven’t faded at all. Recently I tried these wide-leg crop pants and I would recommend sizing down as suggested. The cotton feels sturdy and high-quality and I love the rich terracotta color that can easily be carried over seasons.
Dresses
Back in my anti-shorts days, I relied on dresses. I lived in cute, knit dresses from Target most of the summer, and I still grab some that call to me these days, too. Again, I opt for linen when I can as it’s just so cool and crisp. My sister recently snagged this cute 100% cotton dress from Target and we couldn’t stop talking about all of the ways she can style it!
Skirts
Skirts also give you some flexibility on hot summer days if you don’t feel like wearing shorts, and there are so many lengths to choose from. Living in Austin where we have consecutive 100+ degree days I find that even a maxi skirt can be too hot so I typically opt for shorter skirts and/or save the maxi length for nighttime. Much like dresses, a skirt can double as a swim cover-up, too.
Regarding dresses and skirts, let me offer you a tip: stock up on Megababe Thigh Rescue or Thigh Society Cooling shorts. They are a must for me whenever wearing a skirt or dress, and the shorts come in inseams ranging from 5” - 12”.
Need help finding your perfect non-shorts ensemble for summer? Contact me to schedule personal shopping or a wardrobe refresh.
