Fashion’s Latest Shorts Obsession Is Surprisingly Easy to Wear

Once reserved for evening, the high-shine fabric is proving to be extremely versatile.

Woman wearing long taffeta shorts
(Image credit: Getty Images)

There was a time when taffeta was reserved almost exclusively for occasion dressing. The structured, high-shine fabric was synonymous with evening gowns and cocktail dresses meant for weddings, galas, and black-tie affairs. However, this season, designers are reinterpreting the fabric for everyday wear.

Taffeta pants quietly gained momentum this spring thanks to contemporary labels like Chan Luu and Donni, proving the fabric could feel just as effortless with a simple tank top and sandals as it could dressed up for an event. Now, taffeta shorts are the natural continuation, translating the same elevated ease into a silhouette made for summer.

For those looking for options beyond the tailored Bermuda shorts and denim jorts dominating summer outfitting, taffeta shorts provide a playful yet polished alternative that feels completely fresh. From sportier track shorts with striped side seams to beach-ready pull-on styles that pair effortlessly with a swimsuit, and voluminous bubble hems with a touch of whimsy, the range of silhouettes showcases just how versatile the high-shine fabric can be.

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Ahead, shop the taffeta shorts redefining summer dressing with tips on how to style them.

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Kristina Rutkowski
Contributing Fashion Writer

Kristina Rutkowski is a New York-based writer and editor with more than 15 years of experience in the fashion industry. At Marie Claire, she covers fashion trends, shopping, and the pieces worth adding to your wardrobe. Previously, Kristina served as Senior Fashion Market Editor at InStyle, where she reported on everything from emerging designers and seasonal trends to must-have accessories and investment-worthy finds. She has also worked in the fashion departments at Self and Glamour. Her byline has appeared in Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, The Wall Street Journal, WWD, Editorialist, The Zoe Report, and more.