The 2025 Guide to Alternatives to Shorts

Are alternatives to shorts your most pressing fashion conundrum every summer? If so, you’re not alone. This blog originated many years ago out of my own aversion to shorts. But our readers have made it one of the RLS blog’s most popular annual features. I hope this year you’ll find some new and exciting additions to this annual blog.

Happy Shopping!

Lani out and about in her new SPANX® CarryOn Midi Skirt!

Other SPANX® products featured in this post:
SPANXsupersmooth™ Stretch Twill Wide Leg Pant, $128
SPANX AirEssentials® Tie-Waist Jumpsuit, $148
SPANX AirEssentials® Pique Skort, $88

Wide Leg Pants

Why are wide leg pants such a great alternative to shorts? Because in addition to offering coverage, they are cool and comfortable! Full length wide leg pants are particularly good for those who are taller, or if not, are willing to wear a heavier wedge or platform shoe. We have both cropped and regular-length wide leg pants options, so you can find a length that works best for your height and body type!

Tapered and Straight-Leg Pants

Finding the right pair of straight-leg pants can be “wardrobe changing.” More lightweight and comfortable than jeans, this fresh look opens many fashion doors. And this year, we’ve included tapered-leg pants in this category as well. Tapered pants can offer a more tailored, trouser-like leg shape to a comfortable summer pant. You might even be able to wear them to the office. Who wouldn’t love that?

Barrel Leg Pants

Now let’s talk about a rather trendy pant option- barrel leg pants. They may not be for everyone, but they certainly are everywhere. Barrel leg pants are fitted at the waist and tapered at the hem, giving them a rounded or “barrel” shape. If you’re interested in trying barrel leg pants, I recommend having a cute accent shoe to wear with them, and always tucking in your top to accentuate your waist!

Cargo and Utility Pants

The cargo/utility pant trend may be a more approachable trend than the barrel leg pant, so I highly recommend giving it a try. Balance these masculine pants with a more feminine and fitted top to achieve the ultimate cool-girl look. If you’re interested in wearing your new cargo pants into the fall, try pairing them with a long trench and a pointed-toe heel.

Skirts

Many women discount skirts as an alternative to shorts in the summer. Don’t! Skirts offer both casual and elegant options. Fashion fact: skirts were my go-to summer look for many years pre-kids. Just add a coordinating tee or tank, and your outfit is complete. They’re breezy and cool, and you control how much leg to show (or not)!

Skorts

I am obsessed with skorts as a category. Why? Because they can go anywhere! The tennis court, the grocery store, ball games, backyard parties, and some are even nice enough to dress up for a fun weekend date night. They’re so versatile and cute, I think they’re severely underrated! One day, I hope to be a coordinating skort outfit kind of girl :).

Jumpsuits and Rompers

Want a one-and-done look? Sick of dresses or just not into them? A jumpsuit or romper (a jumpsuit with short legs) can be a good alternative to shorts. I particularly love a jumpsuit for travel. They’re comfortable and casual for the airport. And when you reach your destination, throw on some nice jewelry and a pair of heels, et voilà! You’re dinner ready!

What are your favorite alternatives to shorts? Let us know in the comments below!

Real Life Style is a style consulting firm that teaches busy women to wear their power so they can live their lives fully and confidently. Lani Inlander, Kyle Dunphy and Sloane True are based in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area and serve clients nationwide. We offer personal styling services, and an on-demand e-course.

Once in a while, you can find Lani Inlander and Real Life Style on Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Instagram. Mostly, they are happily busy serving their fabulous clients, not hanging out online!