How to Style a Summer Shorts Outfit for Under $400

With sweltering temperatures looming, I've been daydreaming about the summer shorts outfits on my mood board that I can finally wear to beat the summer heat. It's time to swap out my go-to tailored trousers, baggy jeans, and wide-leg cargo pants for a polished shorts collection.

I’m talking about breezy linen shorts for a trip to the shore, tailored Bermuda shorts for my days in the office, and relaxed denim shorts that I can wear with all of my cute summer outfits.

If you're looking for summer outfit inspiration, I've curated 10 short outfits that will add a grown-up edge to your warm-weather wardrobe and lend themselves to a variety of occasions. Each outfit—tops, bottoms, and accessories combined—falls under $400.

Wear on Repeat

If there's one thing to know about me, it's that I love a streamlined outfit that requires minimal effort. I prefer neutral pieces that I can mix and match, and love rewearing a classic outfit, like a white button-down shirt and black shorts. Finish off the look with your sleekest sunglasses, a ladylike handbag, and heeled open-toe sandals.

Make It Vacation Ready

I have several style rules in my sartorial playbook—one is that any sun-filled vacation calls for colorful outfits. Enliven your travel capsule wardrobe with a set, like a blue co-ord that can easily be styled for a casual lunch, sightseeing around town, or a beach day (this cute set can also cosplay as a cover-up). Carry a woven crossbody bag filled with all your summertime essentials, and you have an easy, fuss-free outfit that will fit into any size suitcase.

Play with Seasonal Trends

During Spring 2024's fashion month, brands like Simone Rocha, Jil Sander, and Staud made a strong case for loosely cut Bermuda shorts. These knee-grazing bottoms have swiftly entered the trend cycle again, and it looks like they’re here to stay for summer. Style yours with a lightweight cardigan and dainty ballet flats —another trend that's also heating up for summer.

Go for a High-Low Mix

Before you say sweat shorts can’t be elevated, consider this look, which proves otherwise. This stylish fashion week guest made these sweatshorts wearable outside the gym by teaming them with a ribbed top, chunky sandals, and an embellished handbag. It's an eclectic mix that can really lean into your personal style preferences.

Find a Weekend Uniform

I don’t know about you, but my summer weekends are always booked solid with restaurant outings—brunch, lunch, dinner, you name it, and I need an outfit that will carry me through each event. Summertime-tailored separates fit the bill. The shorts may look casual alone, but pairing them with a form-fit top with feminine details plays with formality and proportions. Slide into a pair of kitten heels, and you’ll be ready to take on your social calendar.

Rememeber, Its All in the Details

Give your simple shorts outfit your own style point-of-view with accessories. The nautical-inspired tote, leather belt, and glossy heels all work together not against one another. You’ll want to revisit this outfit on repeat, and you can switch up the accessories each time you do.

Play with Contrast

Searching for a foolproof outfit formula that will never disappoint? Look no further than this straightforward combination that masters the art of juxtaposition. The tailored blazer and slightly frayed denim shorts work in tandem to create a look that works. Round out your outfit with preppy loafers styled with mid-calf socks.

Choose a Hero Set

On a really hot summer day, you’ll want to slip into an outfit that makes you feel like you’re wearing nothing at all. That's when an airy look swoops in to save you. A pair of linen shorts coordinated with a gauzy top to match will keep you feeling fresh and cool, even during the hottest temps. Pair your set with trendy sneakers and you'll barely even notice it's 100 degrees.

Have Fun With a Late Night Look

Heading out for a night of drinks, dinner, and dancing? Give your little black dresses and slinky slip skirts a rest, and swap in a pair of leggy black bottoms instead. Pair your shorts with a slinky top, like a long-sleeve black button-down, in a lightweight fabric. A tube top or a lace-trimmed camisole is also a great style pairing. Grab a pair of strappy sandals, the MVP of any going-out outfit.

Invest in Tailored Separates

Assembling a summer work outfit is no easy task, but fear I’m here to help with my go-to warm-weather look—tailored separates that boast office-friendly silhouettes. This summer, I’m relying on high-rise shorts with fairly long inseams and fitted blazers that I can throw over my shoulders when I’m frozen by office AC temperatures. My choice of accessory is a chic laptop bag.