I’m always excited to start reaching for shorts again when the weather warms up, and, this year I wanted options beyond my default denim. Knowing how to wear shorts without looking too casual comes down to a few simple things, and I think this look is a good example of how to pull it off.
Simple Ways to Wear Shorts Without Looking Too Casual
Start with the shorts. Not all shorts read the same way. A pleat detail, a clean hem, or a slightly longer inseam can take a basic short and make it feel like an actual outfit. The fabric matters too. Something lightweight but structured will always look more polished than a basic casual short.
Pair them with a knit. Open weave sweaters are still very much trending and I can see why. The texture alone adds so much visual interest to an outfit, and they are the perfect spring layer, giving you coverage on a cool morning without feeling heavy by afternoon. The key is keeping the knit relaxed in fit so the whole look stays easy and not overdone.
Go ahead and be matchy. I leaned all the way into dusty rose here across the sweater, shorts, sneakers, and handbag, and honestly it felt refreshing. After a long winter of reaching for my usual neutrals, committing to one color story felt like a breath of fresh air. Similar tones in different textures, like the open weave knit against the smooth fabric of the shorts, keep it from feeling flat.
I carried a light blush pink handbag and wore dusty pink sneakers to stay in the color family. I wore this to lunch with my family and got so many compliments. Knowing how to wear shorts without looking too casual really does come down to the details.
Thank you for reading!
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Winter to Spring Outfits to Wear Now
7 Spring Outfits with White Jeans
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I LOVE that Teddy Blake bag – it’s gorgeous!
xo,
Kellyann
I love this monochromatic summer look Jill! That mesh top is really beautiful.
https://www.kathrineeldridge.com
I love matchy matchy, and this is such a pretty look. Your sweater is beautiful, my friend! I am such a fan of knits and the open weave makes it comfortable and breathable too.
Hope you have the best Thursday!
Make Life Marvelous
I love a monochrome look and this shade of pink looks so good on you. I wished it was shorts weather though. It’s more winter temps here.
Very cute!
I love how you paired the shorts with the knit sweater and the monochrome look! This is a perfect spring outfit and great tips you shared for styling shorts!
http://www.joyfulstateofmind.com
This look has me really looking forward to summer; I LOVE it!!
And you do details fabulously.
OXOX
Jodie
I love the different textures and that dusty rose is such a great color on you!
Carrie
curlycraftymom.com
This is such a cute outfit! I really like the tone on tone!
I think going matchy matchy made this outfit chic and sophisticated. I need to inventory my shorts and get rid of some. Then, I need to invest in some really nice, structured ones. Love this all pink (naturally) outfit, Jill!
https://marshainthemiddle.com/
I really liked this post because shorts can be tricky to style without feeling too casual. The sweater especially elevated the look so nicely.
I really liked this post because shorts can be tricky to style without feeling too casual. The sweater especially elevated the look so nicely.
I love this monochromatic look, Jill. The dusky rose is such a lovely colour on you.
Julia xo
https://www.thevelvetrunway.com/
This pink two piece is sensational on you! Pinned. I love the color – and also the Teddy Blake bag. Thanks for linking
I love this outfit! The soft pink is so pretty. Fabulous bag! Thanks for linking!
Emma xxx
https://www.style-splash.com/