Biker shorts cycled their way through the '80s and '90s, then disappeared. Their modern comeback was a sensation—one that was even embraced on the Chanel runways in 2019. Today, trendsetting celebs, models, and street-style stars continue to make the case for spandex outside of the gym. This trend can be a polarizing one, but much like a tank or a tee, a good pair of biker shorts can be used as a multifaceted base layer. In SHORT: they're whatever you want them to be.
Even biker shorts naysayers can't argue with their comfort and versatility. Dress them up with a blazer and a fab kitten heel, or pair them down with a dependable sneaker and your favorite graphic tee. Ahead, we've got 16 looks that will inspire you to finally take biker shorts out for a spin.
Tee Off
ZARA Cream Biker Shorts
Cream biker shorts?! Yes please. Style them with a longer top or tunic dress, and double-check that they're not see-through (this pair are not).
Balenciaga Oversized Printed Cotton-Jersey T-shirt
Cat-loving fashionistas, this oversized graphic tee is meowing your name.
& Other Stories Lace-Up Leather Boots
Add a bit of edge to any biker short ensemble with this lace-up leather and track sole ankle boot.
Sea Ruffle Overlay Denim Jacket
You probably own one (or two, or three) jean jackets already. This season, consider investing in an iteration that boasts a little added oomph.
Isabel Marant Isabel Marant Crossbody Bag
A practical hands-free bag for a day on the go.
Button-Downs & Bikers
Year of Ours Rib Knit Biker Short
The stretch, rib-knit fabric is so comfy, you'll barely feel these at all.
Helmut Lang Open-back Cotton-Poplin Shirt
Open-back tailoring sets this apart from other button-downs.
Stuart Weitzman Over-The-Knee Boots
Offset a tiny bottom with a knee-high boot. This version is surprisingly lightweight with a durable rubber sole.
Tory Burch Lee Radzwill Small Bag
This petite top handle bag is just as stylish as its namesake.
Bottega Veneta Hexagon Frame Gold Sunglasses
Round out a sophisticated outfit with these sleek gold-frame sunnies.
Sport-Inspired
A2Y Ribbed Biker Shorts
Good news: These seamless biker shorts comes in 12 different colorways.
Ansea The Anorak Jacket
This water-repellant jacket checks our boxes for fashion and function.
AMI Paris Ami De Coeur Denim Baseball Cap
Ace your look with this light denim baseball hat.
Brother Vellies Nylon Shoulder Bag
This nylon shoulder strap bag is just the right size for day or evening.
Chanel Suede Calfskin & Nylon
Staying comfy doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style. Case in point: these Chanel sneakers.
It's Business Time
ZARA Metal Button Blazer
A structured blazer will instantly elevate any look.
Catbird NYC Yellow Gold Hoop
Wear these as singles or invest in a full pair.
Bottega Veneta The Pouch Clutch
Keep this day clutch stocked with the essentials for a chic grab-and-go option.
Aerie Ribbed Biker Shorts
These navy bikers have UV protection and sweat wicking properties, so you can wear them to work out or go out out.
Soru Jewellery Ionian Necklace
This chunky chain-link necklace pairs with just about anything.
MARGAUX The Pointe Flat
These are your new dependable ballet flats.
Borrowed From The Boys
Alex Eagle Sporting Club Cashmere Cricket Jumper
This sweater gives off vintage appeal. It's crafted from cashmere made in a 150-year-old mill.
All Access Center Stage Bike Shorts
These sleek biker shorts are the perfect pairing for a slightly cropped sweater or a half-tucked in rugby shirt.
On Cloud Sneakers
These lightweight, fully cushioned sneakers look cool, but are technical enough to log some real mileage.
Sensi Studio Maxi Crossbody Bag
Tote this woven straw bag around the city or use it as a classic beach accessory.
GLVSS The Snake
These sport inspired frames look cool and have 100 percent UV protection.
Midriff Moment
ZARA Fitted Blazer
A cropped blazer adds a bit of sophistication to a basic biker short and bra top combo.
Jacquemus Novio Layered Knit Bra Top
We told you bra tops were going to be a thing. This one's made from two layers of textured knit fabric and has a sculpted ribbed under band.
Manolo Blahnik Embellished Print Flats
Manolos are an investment, but like they say: buy once, cry once.
Wardrobe NYC Stretch-Jersey Bike Shorts
Made with breathable bonded tech fabric, UV protection, and moisture-wicking capabilities, these shorts are not only the perfect length, they're high-tech too.
Wandler Leather Shoulder Bag
A chain link shoulder strap adds style, but won't weigh you down.
Studio-To-Street
Telfar Zip-Up Hoodie
This collegiate-inspired hoodie has an ultra-comfy oversized fit.
FRAME Cashmere Shorts
Cashmere shorts. Need we say more?
Sporty and Rich Wellness Ivy Tote
This cotton canvas bag is roomy enough to haul around your laptop and a change of clothes. Plus, it's machine-washable.
The Attico Noah Satin Slides
'90s flatforms got a modern makeover.
Think Pink
L'Agence Chamberlain Boucle Blazer
Every spring wardrobe needs a fresh pop of color.
Commission Ribbed Knit Crochet Top
Wear this feminine crochet top under a blazer or let it shine on its own.
Ernest Leoty Adelaide Biker Shorts
A wide waistband ensures comfort, without unwanted stretch.
Roger Vivier Leather Buckle Mule Sandals
A covered buckle gives off a slightly retro feel.
A.P.C. Mini Python Cross-Body Bag
Wear this mini python purse like a neutral colored accessory.
-
Zendaya Delivers a Podium-Worthy Pre-Olympics GownShe's shining brighter than the City of Lights.
-
'Love Island USA' Star Kenny Rodriguez Is Not "Playing Around" with His and JaNa Craig's Romance Outside of the VillaThe prince and princess of season 6 have remained the cutest couple since filming wrapped.
-
So Many Celebrity Beauty Favorites Are in Nordstrom's Anniversary SaleShop Jennifer Lopez, Meghan Markle, and Kaia Gerber's beloved picks.
-
30 Linen Pieces From Nordstrom’s Sale for a Seamless Summer to Fall TransitionShop breezy dresses and airy pants for versatile summer and autumn outfits.
-
7 Make-My-Life-Easier Items I'm Buying From the Nordstrom Anniversary SaleGrab these must-haves before it's too late.
-
The Best Summer Work Shoes Don’t Have To Scream ‘Corporate'Footwear that means business in the best way possible.
-
34 Chic Vacation Essentials Hiding in Nordstrom's Anniversary SaleDon't board the plane without packing these items first.
-
The Boxer Shorts Trend Offers a Realistic Take on Lingerie DressingHow the borrowed-from-the-boys bottom became a hero summer piece with endless style potential.
-
Fashion Girls Are Destined to Wear the J.Crew x Maryam Nassir Zadeh Collaboration on VacationBeloved indie designer Maryam Nassir Zadeh translated her essentials into the ultimate packing list.
-
I'm a Style Editor—50 Last-Minute Prime Day Fashion Deals to Grab Before TomorrowGrab these on-sale items before it’s too late.
-
Fashion Editors Share the Best Work Dresses From Their Summer UniformFrom classic wrap silhouettes to breezy linens, these are the expert-approved styles we're wearing on repeat.
