Mark My Words: The Trendiest Dressers Will Sport These 7 Shorts Styles This Summer
We’re experiencing a bit of a mini heatwave here in London, which can only indicate that summer is just around the corner! With that thought, I've begun to dream about packing away my tailored wool trousers until early autumn, making way for shorts, naturally. These are a fantastic substitute for the many trouser styles I opt for during the cooler months; I practically live in shorts throughout the summer. Increasingly, we’re noticing that shorts are becoming the preferred choice for fashionable individuals, regardless of the season or temperature. They perfectly balance classic style with a cool edge, and I'm convinced that with the right styling adjustments, they can be appropriate for virtually any occasion. I’ve already bought a reliable pair of Bermuda shorts, but since enhancing my summer capsule wardrobe is my main focus this month, I set out to find the shorts styles poised to take over summer 2026. I can assure you that the trending shorts styles this season are as timeless as they appear fresh.
From lovely lace versions that can elevate your tank tops and tees to relaxed utility styles that are bound to earn you style points among fashion enthusiasts, keep scrolling to explore the seven shorts trends that are set to lead the charge in summer 2026 and beyond.
**7 Shorts Trends Every Fashionista is Embracing in 2026**
1. **Tailored**
- When the weather becomes too hot for tailored trousers, I turn to shorts in this polished silhouette to carry me through to early autumn. Seen on the runways by designers like Ralph Lauren and Hugo Boss, they serve as a perfect sophisticated alternative to trousers that you can easily wear to the office or for a summer evening out.
- **Shop the Trend:**
- Polo Ralph Lauren Pleated Cotton Short - Straight from the runway.
- H&M Belted Tailored Shorts - They appear much pricier than their £23 price tag.
- ANINE BING Brice Pleated Wool-Blend Shorts - Suitable for loafers, trainers, and sandals.
- Reiss Linen-Blend Tailored Shorts.
2. **Lace**
- Once perceived as dull or overly formal, lace has become one of the must-have fabrics of the season. We've already witnessed its dominance in blouses, skirts, and dresses, and it seems that lace shorts in vintage-inspired designs are ready to shine in summer 2026. It’s adaptable, timeless, and importantly, feels (and looks!) cool during the warmer months.
- **Shop the Trend:**
- Pair with a tank top and flip-flops during the day, and switch to a blouse and kitten heels for the evening.
- ASOS DESIGN Crochet Lace Shorts - This black version is tugging at my heartstrings.
- Free People Slip Into Something Shorts - They would fool everyone into thinking they’re designer.
3. **Utility**
- If you’re a fan of cargo trousers like I am, allow me to introduce you to their cooler younger counterpart, the utility short. A lighter alternative to the beloved Y2K-inspired trousers, utility shorts will provide a chic edge to all your outfits this summer.
- **Shop the Trend:**
- ISABEL MARANT Barta Cotton Straight-Leg Shorts.
- Free People Frankie Washed Shorts - Pair these with elegant slingback heels.
- Next Ecru Pull-On Utility Denim Shorts - Ideal to transition from day to night.
- Weekday Loose Low Rise Cargo Shorts - Weekday never lets me down.
4. **Bermuda**
- Offering the ideal blend of looking stylish while feeling effortlessly chic, Bermuda shorts provide a cooler alternative to the loose, flowy trousers that usually dominate summer fashion. I already invested in a classic black pair last year, but I must admit, the styles linked below are also quite tempting.
- **Shop the Trend:**
- H&M Linen-Blend Bermuda Shorts.
- ZARA Long Bermuda Shorts With Darts - This chocolate brown option is particularly appealing.
- M&S Pleated Longline Shorts.
5. **Boxer**
- Although it may seem daunting to wear boxer shorts outside, they are actually very simple to style. They pair well with both casual and more dressy attire, making them the perfect low-effort, high-impact choice that you'll depend on until early autumn.
- **Shop the Trend:**
- With Nothing Underneath The Boxer Short - The navy adds a refreshing change from my usual black wardrobe.
- COMME SI La Boxer Classica Striped Cotton-Poplin Shorts - Great with a white button-down and minimal trainers for a relaxed look.
- Free People We the Free Day to Day Striped Boxers - This sage green will combine perfectly with both neutrals and bold shades.
- M&S Pure Cotton Poplin Pyjama Shorts - Available in sizes UK 6 - 22.
6. **Embroidered**
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Mark My Words: The Trendiest Dressers Will Sport These 7 Shorts Styles This Summer
From lovely lace designs to stylish utility styles, here are the seven shorts trends that every fashion enthusiast will embrace in the summer of 2026.