Trendy Summer Shorts for Your Body Shape

Struggling to find the best shorts for your body shape? We’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ve curated this season’s essential shorts styles and paired them with simple yet effective styling tips to help you navigate the world of shorts effortlessly.

You’re not alone if you’re unsure about how to wear shorts. From chasing trends to nailing the perfect fit, it can be tempting to stick with dresses. But we’ve got your back! We believe in wearing what makes you feel amazing, but if you’re swimming in a sea of summer shorts options, this simple guide will steer you to the most flattering shorts for your body shape. 

The Perfect Shorts for Your Body Shape

Whether you’re jetting off on vacation, curating a killer capsule wardrobe or simply craving leg-flaunting vibes for sunny days, the perfect shorts make all the stylish difference.

In this post, we’ll break down body shapes, explain styling goals and recommend styles that look killer on each. We’ll also give you some ideas for tops that pair well with each style so you can create perfectly balanced and stylish looks all season long. Get the shorts upgrade your wardrobe needs!

Shorts to Accentuate Your Hourglass Figure

An hourglass body shape is all about those beautiful curves. If you have an hourglass figure, your hips and bust are balanced and your waist is well-defined. When styling shorts for your body shape, the goal is to accentuate your natural curves while keeping everything in harmony. 

High-Waisted Shorts

High-waisted shorts are perfect for hourglass figures. They shape to the waist and hips but lengthen the legs for a perfectly flattering look. High-waisted denim shorts are a wardrobe staple but feel free to experiment with other fabrics, colors and prints to show off your personal style. 

Paperbag Shorts

Want a delightful textured twist? Enter paperbag shorts. Their gathered, occasionally belted or pleated waist not only draws attention to the waistline but also complements the hips with loose legs, embodying comfort and effortless trendiness—a perfect match for sun-drenched days! Pair them with a fitted tank or tee, neatly tucked in, for an extra-defined silhouette that accentuates your hourglass charm.

Tailored Shorts

Lastly, with a similarly structured waist and looser legs, tailored shorts accentuate your curves while keeping your whole look polished. An essential for every hourglass gal’s wardrobe! A top with structured shoulders, puff sleeves or a V-neck pairs well with tailored shorts to keep the perfect balance between your shoulders and hips.

Shorts for a Pear Body Type

Next up, let’s talk styles for pear-shaped perfection. If you rock a pear shape, your hips are wider than your shoulders and your waist is well-defined. It’s a classic feminine silhouette that looks amazing in so many trendy short styles. When styling shorts for your body shape, aim to balance out your proportions by drawing the eye upward and accentuating your waist. 

High-Waisted Shorts

High-waisted shorts aren’t just for hourglasses – they’re a dream for pear body types too! They hug your waist snugly and create a lovely curvy effect, elongating your legs for an ultra-flattering silhouette. More fitted leg styles define your natural curves and keep the balance. Pair with a top that has puffed, ruffled or other dramatic sleeves to balance the width of your shoulders. 

A-line Shorts

A-line shorts are another stylish option for pears. They have a gentle flare from the waist down that complements curves while minimizing some of the focus on the hips. This timeless shape is ultra-versatile, too, and can be dressed up or down easily. For a casual vibe, try A-line denim shorts with a relaxed graphic tee. When the mood is polished, pair A-line trouser shorts with a fitted top and a structured outer layer like a blazer or a clean denim jacket. 

Bermuda Shorts

Lastly, don’t forget about Bermuda shorts! These longer-length shorts end just above the knee, offering more coverage while still showcasing your legs. Whether fitted or loose, mid-rise or high-rise, they beautifully balance the lower body and pull warm-weather looks together. A simple, relaxed tee or a button-up shirt keeps things classic, relaxed and all in harmony.

Shorts to Flatter Your Rectangle Shape

Let’s chat about a chic rectangle body shape. If your shoulders, waist, and hips are similar in width, creating a straight silhouette, you’ve got the rectangle vibe going strong. Celebrate that streamlined look and use styling to add some curves where you want them. When styling shorts for your body shape, the goal is to create the illusion of curves and add some dimension to your silhouette. 

Paperbag Shorts

Rectangles – paperbag shorts are your best friend. The dramatic belted, gathered or pleated waist defines your midsection while the roomier leg adds volume to your hips. For a perfectly balanced look, try a ruffle or puff sleeve top that adds that same volume to your shoulders.

Ruffled Shorts

Feeling playful? Ruffled shorts are another fabulous way to add shape to a rectangle silhouette. Experiment with ruffles at the waist, hips or hem to add texture and movement and get a dynamic, curve-enhancing look. They’re so cute with crop tops, relaxed sweaters or structured jackets that provide some balance up top and juxtapose the more feminine ruffles. 

Boyfriend Shorts

Last but not least, shout out to boyfriend shorts! They’re the laid-back summer alternative to jeans and work as hard as other styles to add volume to your hips. A high-waisted boyfriend short draws the eye in at the waist and flares out at the hem for an ultra-trendy and flattering combo. They pair well with all types of tops and jackets, but flirty, fitted tank tops, basic tees and loose button-up shirts are foolproof choices for well-balanced looks.

Shorts for an Inverted Triangle Shape

Inverted triangles, welcome! If your shoulders are broader than your hips, creating a V-shaped silhouette, you’ve got that ultra-strong and confident vibe. When styling shorts for your body shape, it’s about embracing those beautiful shoulders while adding some volume to your lower body for balance. 

Bermuda Shorts

Bermuda shorts are a fantastic choice – they end just above the knee but can be fitted or loose depending on your preference. A looser Bermuda short adds more volume to your bottom half, but slim-fitting ones make a stunning statement, too. Choose whichever rise your heart desires. Bermuda shorts pair well with slimmer tanks and V-neck tops to draw the eye in and down toward the hips. 

Cargo Shorts

Cargo shorts are another great option for inverted triangle body types. With extra pockets and utilitarian-inspired detailing on the lower half, they draw the eye downward and add interest to your lower body, creating a more balanced silhouette. Plus, so trendy (and practical)! Again, a cute V-neck tank top or a slouchy cardigan can draw attention away from the shoulders and give the illusion of a more balanced silhouette. 

Boyfriend Shorts

Finally, boyfriend shorts work well for inverted triangles too. These relaxed-fit shorts are perfect for adding the same volume to your hips and creating a gentle curve, harmonizing perfectly with your beautiful broad shoulders for a well-balanced look. Grab relaxed tees, halter tops or scoop necks to keep attention toward your collarbones and let the flare come from the shorts.

Shorts for Apple Body Types

Apple shapes, it’s time to celebrate you! If you have an apple body type, your shoulders and waist are broader compared to your hips, creating a beautifully curvy silhouette. When it comes to styling shorts for your body shape, the goal is to draw attention to your legs and create a more defined waistline. 

Bermuda Shorts

Bermuda shorts are a fantastic choice for apple shapes. The cut ends just above the knee, providing coverage while elongating your legs. Opt for a mid-rise or high-rise pair to accentuate your waist and create a streamlined look. Wide, flared legs on Bermuda shorts can also help create more balance! Fitted camis or tops with lower, wider necklines pair perfectly with these shorts, as they can draw attention up and away from the waist. 

Tailored Shorts

Tailored shorts are another stylish option for apples. A structured fit following your natural curves enhances your silhouette and creates a polished, put-together vibe. Look for styles with details like belts or waistbands to emphasize your waistline further! Try a slim-fitting cap-sleeve top, a cami with a more structured layer on top or a button-up shirt left loose on one side.

Flowy Shorts

For a breezy and comfortable option, flowy shorts are perfect for apple body types. These shorts have a relaxed fit that drapes gently over your curves for more movement and a totally relaxed feel. Pair them with a fitted tank and a flowy layering piece like a kimono to balance the silhouette and create a chic, perfectly curated look.

Wrapping It Up: Shorts Are for Everyone!

Finding the best shorts for your body shape becomes easy-breezy when armed with the right fashion tips from personal stylists! From timeless high-waisted classics to the flair of A-line, boyfriend, tailored or Bermuda designs, there’s a treasure trove of options to flatter every figure and personal style.

When curating your shorts ensemble, the goal is to choose pieces that celebrate your natural features and strategically add or subtract volume to create the illusion of a more hourglass silhouette. These style choices are not just about aesthetics but are empowering statements that resonate with every body shape and size.

Shorts are not exclusive – they’re for every body type and can be a powerful part of self-expression through fashion. No matter your body type or favorite style, embrace your curves, accentuate your favorite features and step into the warmth of spring and summer with newfound confidence and style. Celebrate the uniqueness of your silhouette and make every outfit a statement of self-love and empowerment.

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