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Best Shorts for 40+

The long and short of it…

By Kitt Crescenzo
Posted June 3, 2015

Ladies, there are tons of articles out there about what you should be wearing when you’re of a certain age, especially when it comes to shorts. Instead, I believe the question isn’t “should” you be wearing shorts, but “how” to wear shorts, so they’re flattering as well as comfortable. Wearing them chicly is the trick, and that’s where we come in.

Length

Shorts come in all lengths, from barely there to knee length. While women in their 20s can get away with short-shorts, the rule of thumb for wearing fashion shorts after 40 is they should be no shorter then where your fingertips rest along your leg when you’re standing up (Athletic shorts are an exception).

woman in red shirt and black shorts 

Fit

It’s especially important with shorts that you find a fit in the “Goldilocks zone” – not too tight, not too loose, but just right. Too loose and the shorts look boxy and unflattering. Too tight, even on the sveltest figure, looks unsophisticated. Shorts that hug your shape and taper along your leg are the most flattering. Avoid the “mom jean” look by staying away from uber-trendy high-waist silhouettes.

 

Fabric

Experiment with color, print, and texture. Try out some unconventional fabrics like leather, lace, silk and linen – the more lux the fabric, the more sophisticated the look. For more casual shorts, invest in good quality, thicker denims.  

woman in white blouse and khaki shorts 

Complete the Outfit

Pair your shorts with flowy blouses, button ups or colorful tees in higher-end fabrics. Avoid graphic tees and crop tops if you want your look to say “chic” not “cheap”. Add a lightweight jean jacket to take the look from day to night. To elevate the look even more, add statement jewelry and stylish flats or wedges.

 woman in green tank and shorts

Shorts are a summer staple to be enjoyed by every woman. Slip them on with style and confidence and you can’t go wrong.

MORE TRENDS TO LOVE: Welcome Back Wide Legged Pants!>>

The Best Shorts for You:

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