The women’s shorts suit is everything right now. And that’s a beautiful thing for anyone who appreciates the tailored style of a pantsuit but can’t bear the thought of wearing one on a hot summer day. To the rescue comes this warm-weather, chic version.
In terms of style, the shorts suit offers a hint of 1990s-inspired masculinity, mixed with a good dose of skin-baring sex appeal. That contrasting combo makes for an interesting style statement — classy, graceful and powerful all in one.
The Women’s Shorts Suit at the Office
But can you actually wear a short suit to the office? It depends on your corporate environment. In an anything-goes, casual sort of workplace, feel free. If your office is in that squishy middle ground — not quite stuffy in terms of dress, but not wildly creative either — choose a suit with shorts that end at or close to the knee.
The Women’s Shorts Suit Away from the Office
Those of you bound by a strict work dress code may need to limit your shorts suit escapades to other occasions. It’s a sophisticated, yet approachable choice for a casual lunch with colleagues, for example, or for an impromptu dinner date. You could even try this style for a shopping trip in the city. Add some very large sunglasses and someone might even think you’re famous.
Accessorizing the Shorts Suit
The shorts suit is easy to accessorize with a statement necklace, and you can easily transform its vibe by pairing it with either a pair of sneakers or low-profile wedges.
You can also make the most of the ensemble by selecting coordinating pieces — a matching blazer and a pair of tailored shorts is flawless, especially with a simple white tee or a camisole underneath. But if you feel a rush of heat, you can easily remove the blazer.
Short Suit Picks We Love
Here are a few options to keep in mind if you’re ready to try this new and unexpected addition to your wardrobe.
Sporty and feminine, this pair of ASOS DESIGN shorts features a classic houndstooth pattern. Pair it with a simple tee, as seen here, and finish with the matching blazer for a coolly pulled together ensemble.
Summer is also a great time to embrace more vibrant hues. This ASOS DESIGN soft suit includes a brilliant coral blazer and a pair of flared matching shorts that flatter your figure nicely. The wider leg shorts pair nicely with strappy block heels.
What speaks of the season’s beautiful weather better than breezy fabric and light hues? This pairing from AQUA is destined to be a favorite every year. It marries a light, striped blazer with a pair of paperbag waist shorts with a self-tie belt. You could easily separate these pieces and match them up with other items in your closet, too.
Pin Stripe Blazer, $98, Shoptiques
This set is on the splurgy side at $166. But it masterfully blends the feminine and masculine elements. A strong pin stripe delivers a seriously a powerful vibe, while the shorter length shorts let you show off those great legs of yours. Add in a low block heel sandal made of black patent leather and you’ll own every room you enter.