Here’s the thing about shorts: They’re not that easy to build an elegant outfit around—especially denim shorts, which are about as casual as shorts get. But as someone who loves to wear denim shorts, I don’t let this stop me. I like a summer outfit challenge. And given that the high is in the 90s this week where I live (the sweltering South…), I’ve been searching high and low for new ways to wear shorts.
Just like everyone else, I want my outfits to have at least a hint of elegance these days.—but elegance and shorts aren’t usually spoken in the same sentence but I’m here to change that. I searched high and love for elevated denim shorts outfit ideas that’ll see us all through until September, and my search was fruitful. See for yourself by scrolling to shop eight denim shorts outfits that everyone will agree are elevated.
V-Neck Sweater + White T-Shirt + Belt + Denim Shorts + Sandals
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Reformation
Sienna Oversized Cotton V Neck Sweater
Agolde
Becker Shorts
Reformation
Millie Lattice Flat Sandals
Blazer + Tank + Belt + Denim Shorts + Kitten Heels
(Image credit: Edward Berthelot/Getty Images)
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Aritiza
Babaton Standout Blazer
Mother
Down Low Undercover Cutoff Denim Shorts
Manolo Blahnik
Maysalebi 50 Suede-Trimmed Croc-Effect Leather Mules
Cardigan + Denim Shorts + Heels
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Reformation
Bernadette Crew Cardigan
Agolde
Stella High Rise Shorts
Sam Edelman
Bianka Slingback Pumps
Button-Down Shirt + Belt + White Denim Shorts + Minimal Sandals
(Image credit: Edward Berthelot/Getty Images)
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& Other Stories
Oversized Linen Shirt
Reformation
Raye Mid Rise Denim Jorts
Reformation
Serenity Bare Sandals
Black Cardigan + Cream Denim Shorts + Ballet Flats
(Image credit: Daniel Zuchnik/Getty Images)
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J.Crew
Featherweight Cashmere Shrunken Cardigan Sweater
SLVRLAKE
Mica Denim Shorts
J.Crew
Quinn Square-Toe Ballet Flats in Leather
Logo Tee + Denim Shorts + White Socks + Loafers
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Loewe
Anagram Embroidered Cotton-Jersey T-Shirt
Levi’s
Baggy Dad Shorts
G.H.Bass
Whitney Leather Loafers
Black Tank + Denim Shorts + High-Heel Sandals
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COS
Boat-Neck Tank Top
Agolde
Stella Shorts
ST. AGNI
Pina Suede Slingback Sandals
Denim Button-Down + Belt + Denim Short
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J.Crew
Garçon Classic Chambray Shirt in Neela Wash
Loulou Studio
Isu High-Rise Organic Denim Shorts
Madewell
The Essential Leather Belt
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