I believed that pairing these shoes with shorts was awkward—however, it turns out that this combination is the height of style for 2025.

I believed that pairing these shoes with shorts was awkward—however, it turns out that this combination is the height of style for 2025.

      Throughout the summer, we've been tracking the trends—well, drops?—in longer inseams. Bermuda shorts, and yes, even culottes have become the essential shorts style among fashion enthusiasts and celebrities. In general, shorts are becoming longer, yet interestingly, they are also getting shorter. For Gen Z, particularly, it's all about micro-shorts—from Sabrina Carpenter's distinctive bloomers to Olivia Rodrigo's $53 Nordstrom pair. What’s even more unexpected than the arrival of these tiny inseams alongside numerous knee-length options is the footwear choice being paired with them. Typically, the advice for such a minimal trend is to keep the rest of the outfit classic; however, rather than choosing a more conventional option like sandals, people are opting for boots. I used to think that wearing shorts with boots was a fashion "blunder" due to the traditionally unflattering nature of the shoes, but considering the influx of outfits showcasing this combination, I may have to rethink that stance as the pairing looks surprisingly chic. Below are various ways celebrities and fashion influencers are styling tall and mid-calf boots with shorts (and actually pulling it off).

      On Olivia Rodrigo: Edikted Twyla Polka Dot Shorts ($53); Frye Campus Knee High Boots ($498)The only enhancement to Olivia Rodrigo's trendy polka-dot shorts is the sleek black knee boots she paired with them during an outing in NYC, giving a stylish twist to the shorts for the urban setting.

      On Dua Lipa: Martine Rose T-shirt; Courrèges Americana Boots ($906); Chanel 25 Bag ($6000); Re/Done 90S Frayed Organic Denim Shorts ($288)Denim shorts haven’t been a top consideration for me this summer, but upon seeing Dua Lipa wear hers with mid-calf moto boots, I realized the shoes make all the difference. Her boots feel much fresher with cutoffs compared to the flip-flops or sneakers I usually grab.

      It’s the season for the outdoorsy-chic wardrobe, whether in the English countryside, Provence, or the Hamptons. Embrace the spirit of an off-grid escape by pairing wellies with short shorts and a classic knit.

      If everyone's favorite It girl Devon Carlson is endorsing this outfit idea, it's only a matter of time before others jump on board. I'm really into this moodier checkered print trend that excites me for fall fashion.

      This laid-back summer vibe features a popular closet staple: lace-trim shorts. The inclusion of Western boots makes this simple combination truly stand out.

      We’ve reached peak boho, and one way fashion enthusiasts are embracing this free-spirited vibe is by grounding airy, smocked clothing with Western-style boots.

      Your favorite knee-high boots from fall and winter should also be worn in the summer. Pair them with relaxed shorts and a tee for a cool look.

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I believed that pairing these shoes with shorts was awkward—however, it turns out that this combination is the height of style for 2025.

An apology is warranted.