Forget summer dresses or skirts, when it's this hot outside – as in 24-degree-plus, officially a heatwave weather – there's only one thing we're reaching for: shorts. Sometimes, a floaty dress or midi skirt just feels like too much fabric swamping your legs, while mini styles are practically asking for chafing. *Shudders.*
Well, not only do shorts provide much less of a risk of chafing, but there are so many trending shorts styles to choose from this summer. So, if you've previously struggled to find a flattering pair, we can almost guarantee that will all change this szn. From Chloé's ruffled bloomers to Miu Miu's preppy chic Bermudas, the SS25 runway proved there was something for everyone and the high street has followed suit.
Don't just take our word for it. Below, we've rounded up the biggest shorts trends to know about right now, plus the best ways to style your shorts outfits this summer.
Linen shorts
Nothing beats the easy breeziness of linen for surviving the heat, but when even your linen trousers feel too constricting, turn instead to a pair of linen shorts. Our favourite styles are easily linen boxers, styled with a coordinating oversized shirt for effortless polish.
Long, Bermuda shorts
Sorry, micro shorts, summer 2025 is all about Bermuda shorts that fall *at least* to the knee. As there's more fabric on your bottom half, you can get away with your teeny tiniest crop top or a sheer lace cami without feeling too exposed.
Bloomer shorts
Bloomer shorts have emerged as a new trend this summer, right in time to see you through the boiling temps when all you really want to wear is, well, nothing. Bloomers are a close second, falling somewhere between knickers and shorts. We love the idea of contrasting against the ultra-feminine, coquette vibe with a sports jersey top.
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Denim shorts
Sure, you might think denim would be counterintuitive for staying cool in hot weather. This season, however, denim shorts are cut in longer line silhouettes with wide legs, allowing for plenty of ventilation. While you can't go wrong with a t-shirt and flip flops to keep things casual, it's surprisingly easy to dress them up with a boho ruffle blouse and heeled sandals.
Sports shorts
For truly sweaty days, there's no other option than a pair of sports shorts. In the same way track pants were big news in autumn winter, athletic shorts have become a cool girl signifier in summer. Wear yours with an oversized tailored shirt, loafers and stacks of jewellery.
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Alexandria Dale is the Digital Fashion Writer at Cosmopolitan UK. Covering everything from the celebrity style moments worth knowing about to the latest fashion news, there’s nothing she loves more than finding a high street dupe of a must-have designer item. As well as discovering new brands, she’s passionate about sustainable fashion and establishing the trends that are actually worth investing in. Having worked in fashion journalism for six years, she has experience at both digital and print publications including Glamour and Ok!
