Everyone needs at least one pair of black shorts. Much like everyone needs a white tank top, a trench coat and a few pairs of jeans in their wardrobe. In a way, the black short is like a blank canvas since there's so many ways to wear it. So we decided to research recent runway shows for some inspiration on how to style black shorts like the pros.
First things first, though. What you wear on top has a lot to do with how short your shorts are. If you're determined to try out the no pants look, make sure you balance things out with more flowing toppers. A long coat also does wonders in these situations. Bermudas give you more wiggle room as you can get away with wearing almost anything with them. They work especially well with blazers or office-appropriate shirts.
Now that you know we know what we're talking about, scroll down to explore how to style black shorts the runway way(s).
Sporty Chic
Top off a pair of athletic black shorts with a white tank top and a marled sweater. Swap the chunky boots for platform sandals.
Make It Monochrome
An effortless way to style black shorts is by teaming them with a black short-sleeve shirt that goes in at the waist and complementary sandals.
Go Glam
Nothing elevates black leather shorts like an asymmetric black top, neutral footwear and a long beige jacket.
Play With Proportions
Balance out black short shorts with a red blouse boasting billowy sleeves. Stick with black heels to round out the look.
In the Bag
Paper-bag waists can be tricky. Your best bet is to tuck a textured long-sleeve top into your shorts and cap things off with loafers.
Break Out the Boho
A boho top with a touch of lace serves as a great companion to itty-bitty black shorts. Strappy sandals wrap up the ensemble.
Ace Acid Wash
Who says your shorts have to be all black? Coordinate an acid-wash set with an acid-wash jacket left open to reveal a striped shirt left open to reveal a white tee. Two-tone pumps FTW.
Get Graphic
Front tuck a graphically printed top into high-waisted black shorts for a cool waterfall effect. Buckled platform sandals solidify the look.
Take the Plunge
Take a semi-sheer shirt and leave it unbuttoned before tucking it into black leather shorts. Add a belt to keep everything in place and flashy pumps.
Perfect Pairing
Combine a rough-edged denim shirt with black leather Bermudas. Sandals with skinny straps are the ideal way to finish off the outfit.
The Layered Look
Slip on a sheer skirt with several slits over black shorts for an easy-breezy vibe. A polka dot shirt in an unexpected hue and coordinating pumps punctuate the look.
Suit Up
Make black shorts work in the office by teaming them with a strong-shouldered, blazer-like shirt. High-shine pumps take things up several notches.
The Long and Short of It
Style a plunging white tee with short black shorts, a logo belt and a tailored coat. Elevate the ensemble with sky-high platforms.
All Buttoned Up
Button a blue button-down all the way up to the collar, then tuck it into belted black shorts. Add in ankle boots for a little lift.
Leather and Lace
Show a little skin by wearing a lacy bra top under a bolero-style short-sleeve top. Incorporate black leather shorts and leather boots to finish off the look.
Trailblazer
A boxy gray blazer and shiny black shorts aren't strictly business. Especially when amplified by embellished sandals.
