Seen in Paris: The 5 Most Stylish Ways to Style Your Shorts This Summer
If you're living in the UK, you're likely well aware of the recent temperatures exceeding 30°C. Between warm bank holidays and excessively sweaty commutes, I've come to a quick realization: I have far too many jeans and long trousers, and not nearly enough shorts. After exploring runway trends that will take over summer 2026 and investing in a few pairs for myself, I was left with a question: how should I style them? With the goal of enhancing my summer outfits this month, I turned to one clear source of inspiration: French fashionistas. A quick scroll through my Instagram feed led to a folder filled with numerous shorts outfits that feel both fresh and timeless. To simplify things, I’ve narrowed it down to the five most chic shorts outfits I plan to emulate from now until early autumn. In true French-girl style, each outfit remains classic, versatile, and exudes an expensive look. Keep scrolling to discover five effortlessly elegant ways that French influencers are styling their shorts for summer 2026, and find out how to achieve the look for yourself.
1. Relaxed Shirt + Bermuda Shorts + Mules
Style Notes: A cooler (no pun intended!) option compared to the tailored trouser styles I usually wear in colder weather, Bermuda shorts can be dressed up or down effortlessly. For the office, I’m inspired by the outfit above, pairing it with a tailored button-up and sleek mules.
Shop the Look:
- **Versace**: Pinstriped Virgin Wool Bermuda Shorts
- **Gianvito Rossi**: Ascent Leather Sandals
The perfect heel height, in my view.
- **Prada**: Aimée Large Leather Shoulder Bag
This is high on my luxury wishlist.
2. T-Shirt + Denim Shorts + Flip-Flops
Style Notes: The greatest thing about denim shorts? They can be styled like jeans. On more formal days, a classic white tee paired with fun jelly flip-flops is a simple, fail-proof choice. Complete the look with a large raffia tote, a bag style familiar to French girls.
Shop the Look:
- **AGOLDE**: Parker Long Distressed Denim Shorts
Agolde doesn’t just make great jeans.
- **ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS**: Saionara Jelly PVC Flip Flops
The jelly sandals I currently have my eye on.
- **M&S**: Straw Hardware Detail Shoulder Bag
You can fit so much in this spacious tote.
3. Waistcoat + Tailored Shorts + Slingback Flats
Style Notes: A lighter but equally elegant alternative to the blazers I typically use to dress up my outfits is the waistcoat. To elevate the look, opt for tailored shorts and comfortable slingback flats, perfect for both the office and a summer dinner date.
Shop the Look:
- **Rebecca Vallance**: Winnie Tweed Vest
Styling possibilities are truly endless.
- **ZARA**: Linen Blend Bermuda Shorts With Elastic Waist
Ideal for my summer travels.
- **AEYDE**: Amelia Suede Slingback Ballet Flats
This soft suede pair is calling to me.
- **Miu Miu**: Wander Matelassé Nappa Leather Hobo Mini-Bag
Miu Miu is always a winner for me.
4. Blouse + Colourful Shorts + Kitten Heels
Style Notes: Blouse season has arrived! To prevent my lovely white blouses from feeling dull, I’ll be pairing them with colourful shorts and heels, keeping the remainder of my outfit tonal to suit my minimalist style.
Shop the Look:
- **M&S**: Pure Cotton Lace Bib Detail Embroidered Top
This went straight into my basket.
- **Eres**: Correct High-Rise Linen Shorts
This lime shade is surprisingly versatile.
- Sézane comes highly recommended by French girls.
Roomy enough for the essentials.
5. Lightweight Knit + Satin Shorts + Strappy Sandals
Style Notes: Once viewed as dull or even frumpy, lace trim has become a popular detail for summer 2026. It’s versatile, classic, and importantly, looks (and feels!) cool in warm weather. On mildly chilly summer days, I’ll pair it with a knitted Henley top and strappy flat sandals.
Shop the Look:
- **GABRIELA HEARST**: Anges Ribbed Cashmere, Silk, and Hemp-Blend Henley Top
You’ll reach for this in autumn and winter as well.
- **Free People**: Meet Me in the Middle Tap Shorts
Perfect with a Henley top and sandals during the day, and a satin blouse and kitten heels in the evening.
- **ANCIENT GREEK SANDALS**: Sfendoni Sandals
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Seen in Paris: The 5 Most Stylish Ways to Style Your Shorts This Summer
From chic tailored designs to charming lace-trimmed versions, here are five ways French style icons are wearing their shorts for summer 2026.
