With warmer weather on its way, it’s time to break out that summer wardrobe! Yet looking good while keeping cool can be tricky, especially when it comes to shorts. With so many styles to choose from, it’s difficult to know which trends will best suit your figure. Whether you have long legs or short, are skinny or curvy, there’s sure to be a style to suit you. Follow these tips to make the best use of your shape.
Short Girls
If you have short legs, wearing longer styles will only make them look shorter. Opt for shorts that stop of good few inches above the knee, and avoid flares or rolled up hems. A slim-fitted cut that follows the shape of your leg will best suit you. Try opting for higher waistlines, too, to further lengthen the look of your legs, and wear with wedge heels to enhance the illusion.
→ Buy the J.Crew Tiki Shorts, $65.00, at jcrew.com.
Tall Girls
Long legs, on the other hand, should head for shapely shorts. Roll-up hems, outside pockets or fabric frills can add depth to your figure. Choose shorts with bold patterns or embellishments, and select a lower waistline to balance your legs with the rest of your body. Wear with sandals that fasten above the ankle.
→ Buy the Gap Boyfriend Roll Up Shorts, $39.95, at gap.com.
Curvy Girls
Curvy girls can flatter thighs by choosing mid-length shorts, ending just above the knee. A slimmer fit will present a better overall shape than wider styles, but avoid stretchy fabrics that cling to the skin – they will show every lump and bump. Also stay away from stripes and heavy embellishments, but instead opt for delicate patterns. Keep heels low, as lengthening the look of your lower legs might shorten the appearance of your thighs.
→ Buy the Halogen Taylor Curvy Fit Bermuda Shorts, $59.00, at nordstrom.com; shipping and returns are free.
Choose a waistline that works with the rest of your body shape: if you have a smaller waist compared to your hips, shorts that come up higher can work with your curves to flatter your figure. A bold, busty top and barely-there sandals will complete the look. On the other hand, hipster style shorts, worn with long, floaty tops that flare out from under the bust, can flatter fuller figures. Couple with platforms for extra leg length without narrowing your ankles.
→ Buy the Calson Clean Front 5-Inch Shorts, $158.00, at jcrew.com.
Extra-long shorts, below knee-length, will only flatter long, straight legs, but then a slim cut can look very sophisticated. A thick belt can complement this style. Conversely, hot pants will suit most body shapes, but require toned thighs to present your figure at its best. Un-toned thighs can be hidden by a slightly longer cut while you continue to get into shape.
The fit of your shorts is just important as the style, so don’t be tempted to buy shorts that are too tight – they will be uncomfortable and will not present your figure to its best advantage.
Editor's Note: This post was originally published on April 16, 2012; it has since been updated.
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