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These 6 Trending Pieces Will Replace Your Denim Shorts This Summer
@salemmitchell / Instagram
In This Article
Boho Maxi Skirt
Tailored Bermuda Shorts
Cargo Midi Skirt
Capris
Linen Micro Shorts
Mini Skirt
Key Takeaways
- If you’re looking for an alternative to denim shorts this summer, trending styles including boho maxi skirts, linen micro shorts, and tailored Bermudas may fit the bill.
- These options all work well for warm weather, are possible to dress up or down, and can often be more comfortable than denim cutoffs.
Denim shorts may be a staple of summer, but like any other fashion piece, they have their pros and cons. While cutoffs are classic, it’s easy to get bored of a piece if you’ve been wearing it with everything year after year—plus, they can get pretty uncomfortable. Denim can be tight, restricting, and stick to your skin in the summer heat, leading us to seek airier options as well as other styles that can complement our warm-weather outfits while offering a different aesthetic. Whether you’ve declared your closet a “no-denim zone” or are simply looking to refresh your summer wardrobe, read on for six comfortable and stylish denim shorts alternatives to take for a spin this summer.
Boho Maxi Skirt
@ella_purnell / Instagram
It’s ethereal girl summer, and a staple of this season’s boho-heavy wardrobe is the long, tiered maxi skirt. This is a great alternative to denim shorts, as these skirts are typically in airy, breathable cotton or linen, making them a standout choice for a hot summer day. Boho skirts are easy to elevate with a statement top and one of this season’s top sandal trends, or you can give them a casual feel with a classic tee and sneakers. Maxi skirts’ longer silhouette also gives you extra coverage on days when you don’t want to show a lot of skin but still want to stay cool.
Product Picks
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Farm Rio
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Eloquii
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Quince
Tailored Bermuda Shorts
@nnennaechem / Instagram
Bermuda shorts have made a comeback and are growing in popularity. This denim shorts alternative lands at the knee, making for a great transitional piece from spring to summer. Tailored Bermuda shorts elevate easygoing summer style by making the silhouette a bit more fitted and “grown-up.” Pair them with a nice jacket or collared button-down shirt for a chic summer office outfit, or dress them down with a fitted tee on a casual day off.
Product Picks
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Carhartt
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& Other Stories
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Lilysilk
Cargo Midi Skirt
@lcchan / Instagram
Another Y2K favorite is back in our rotations this summer. Cargo midi skirts are a great denim alternative because they feature functional pockets, while their mid-length silhouette offers versatility to suit a range of aesthetics and changing temperatures. Throw yours on with a baby tee for a true aughts-inspired look, or try dressing up the utilitarian piece with a structured blouse and some floral heels.
Product Picks
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Free People
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Levi’s
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Theory
Capris
@theabbybible/Instagram
When you want something longer than shorts but it’s too hot out for pants, capris are the on-trend way to go. They have a playful look when paired with other summer favorites, and they’re an office-appropriate option that adds a fresh twist to your go-to trousers and dresses. Just add a button-down shirt or a boatneck blouse and some sweet kitten heels, and you’ve found your new summer work uniform.
Product Picks
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Universal Standard
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Muehleder
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Abercrombie & Fitch
Linen Micro Shorts
@sydney_sweeney / Instagram
When it comes to shorts this summer, the more micro, the better. When it’s just too hot out to wear pants, opt for ultra-tiny linen shorts: They’re the most effortless piece to throw on for a day of warm-weather adventures. The linen material also helps you stay cool and comfortable, as it’s a breathable fabric that reflects sunlight. Pair your micro shorts with an oversized tee for a no-pants look, or layer the look with a jacket, blazer, or sweater for some balance (and to keep you warm if you’re going out at night).
Product Picks
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Hope For Flowers
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Reformation
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BDG
Mini Skirt
@salemmitchell / Instagram
Mini skirts are right up there with denim shorts as a summer staple, making for an abundant alternative if you’re tired of your cut-offs. Mini skirts have major range, but some of the most popular variations right now are micro lengths, pleated and wrap styles, and linen mini skirts (bonus points if they come in a fun print). These are an ideal choice for date nights and going out: All you need to add is a nice blouse (perhaps a Copenhagen top?) and pumps. The go-to piece also pairs well with a fitted tee and sneakers for a casual look that you can rock all summer long.
Product Picks
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Telfar
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Lisa Says Gah
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Lurelly
Source URL: https://www.byrdie.com/denim-shorts-alternatives-11740777