Styling Denim Shorts For Summer

First of all, thank's to the fashion trends of 2021, you can find denim shorts in practically every rise known to man. The versatility of being able to choose how high you want to wear your cut-offs is everything. Crop tops are no longer awkward.

Pairing a cute cropped tshirt or sweatshirt with a pair of high rise shorts gives off the perfect casual vibe. And if you have a tshirt you want to tuck in, the high-rise still works. Here, I added a crossbody bag to play with the waistline of my shorts. Super flattering, and it adds just enough interest to my basic white tee and cut-offs.

For a lower rise denim short, try throwing on your favorite tshirt and adding a front tuck. This is honestly one of my summer go-to's for running around and just hanging out. It's such a comfortable look and will probably never go out of style.

Another option for those low rise (or ultra short) shorts... swimsuit coverup! Whether you're rocking a bikini this summer or a cute one-piece, wearing denim shorts as your coverup is easy and plan-proof! I tend to reach for my shorts as a coverup when I'm heading to the cabin or on a boat... you never know where the day is going to take you. Grocery store for a quick food run... a restaurant or bar on the lake... or stopping by a friends cabin by boat just to say hi. My cut-offs have had my back on more then one occasion.

One more styling hack I've done with my ultra-short shorts, is wearing them under a dress that may be borderline too short. I've done this more then once, and it always works out to my benefit... Whether it's a sudden gust of wind that blows my dress up, or it's just me sitting down only to realize my dress appears WAY shorter then I remember (sadly true)... the peek-a-boo of frayed shorts under my dress looks planned and a little chic.

Finally, it is so easy to dress up your favorite denim shorts! Adding the right accessories can elevate your look from 'errands' to 'date night'. Try adding a statement necklace to instantly elevate your denim. Or switch out your shoes to a cute pair of platform sandals and pair with a statement bag. Adding just a little feminine detail can bring your look from cute to chic.

When styling my shorts with a dressier shoe option, I like to reach for a cute platform or wedge. This is not the time to bust out those stilettos - I'm just saying. If you want to wear a heel, try a block heel or low to mid-high sandal. A little heel will really accentuate the curves on your legs... but too much heel can bring on a trashy vibe. My rule of thumb - if I'm questioning whether my shoes are too high or not, I change my shoes. Always be comfortable and authentic to your style.

Start looking at your denim shorts with an open mind. There are literally so many cute ways to style them. If you have a cute top you're dying to wear, try it with a pair of denim cut-offs. And it the cut doesn't look quite right, try on another pair of shorts! There have been days were I have literally changed my shorts four different times before finding a pair that works. It is what it is. Seriously - there are countless styles out there and they all bring a little something different to your outfit. Happy styling!

For more styling inspo, check out my blog at www.smalltownme.com and my Instagram @smalltownme

Love Emily.