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 it is our readers who have made it one of the RLS blog’s most popular annual features.
I was hesitating to publish an alternative to shorts guide so late in the summer. Then one of my favorite podcasts mentioned the topic is one of their most requested. And it isn’t even a fashion podcast! Add in global warming, travel, and some readers living in warmer climates, and I thought you would appreciate our suggestions, even in August.
Happy Shopping!
A throwback picture of Lani on the way to a client. She’s wearing a denim skirt, one of her favorite alternatives to shorts options. One-of-a-kind, hand-painted skirt by Kyle Dunphy. Cost, priceless!
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! These are particularly good for those who are taller, or if not, willing to wear a heavier wedge or platform shoe.
Cropped Wide Leg Pants
Are you on the more petite side like me? Do you prefer to wear flat shoes? Then cropped wide leg pants may be your best warm weather alternative to shorts. I have sooo many pairs of cropped wide leg pants from Athleta!
Cropped Straight Leg Pants
Finding the right pair of cropped straight leg pants can be “wardrobe changing.” More lightweight and comfortable than jeans, this fresh look opens many fashion doors. Don’t give up before finding your right fit!
Skirts
A lot of women discount skirts as an alternative to shorts in the summer. Don’t! Skirts offer both casual and elegant options. Just add a coordinating tee or tank and your outfit is complete!
Skorts
I am newly obsessed with skorts as a category. Why? Because brands like Spanx and Lululemon are making such fashionable skorts. Pleats, chiffon, netting, ruffles. No, I am not talking about an evening dress. I’m talking about a skort!
Jumpsuits and Rompers
Are you more fashion forward? Want a one and done look? Sick of dresses or just not into them? A jumpsuit or romper (a jumpsuit with short legs) could be a good alternative to shorts.
Shorts
Yes, I know this is supposed to be an “alternative to shorts” blog. So why are we showing you shorts? Because sometimes, as an active person or caretaker, shorts are the best option. And for those occasions, we want you to have the knowledge of Real Life Style’s favorite styles of shorts.
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 and Kyle Dunphy are based in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area and serve clients across the country. We offer personal styling services, an on-demand e-course, corporate services, and training to become a personal stylist.
Once in a while, you can find Lani Inlander and Real Life Style on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Mostly, they are happily busy serving their fabulous clients, not hanging out online!
I have worn skorts pretty much exclusively in the summer for the last 10 years. I’m so glad the retailers have adopted the trend – I could only get them from places like Eddie Bauer before. Love the ones I got from Athleta this year!
Yes, the Athleta skorts were sooo good this year!
Thank you so much for the tip on cropped vs long wide legged pants – that makes so much sense! As a petite person, I’ll stick to the cropped ones from here on out.
I’m so glad the blog was helpful!