Wearing shorts over leggings is a fashion trend that has become increasingly popular in recent years. Many people like the look of layering shorts over leggings, as it provides extra coverage and allows you to get more wear out of leggings during transitional weather. While some say wearing shorts over leggings is a fashion faux pas, others argue it’s a perfectly stylish look when done properly. Here is a detailed look at whether or not you can and should wear shorts over leggings.
The Debate Over Shorts Over Leggings
The topic of wearing shorts over leggings is controversial in the fashion world. Here are some of the main pros and cons:
Arguments Against Wearing Shorts Over Leggings
- It’s seen by some as unfashionable or as a fashion mistake.
- The extra layer looks bulky and unflattering according to critics.
- Leggings are meant to be worn alone or with tunics/dresses, not with shorts on top.
- Shorts over leggings can look sloppy or lazy if not styled properly.
Arguments For Wearing Shorts Over Leggings
- It provides more coverage and warmth for cooler weather.
- It allows you to wear leggings more months out of the year.
- The layering creates a more stylish, put together outfit.
- It’s on trend and fashionable when styled appropriately.
As you can see, there are good arguments on both sides of this debate. Whether or not you can pull off shorts over leggings ultimately comes down to your personal style and confidence to rock the look.
Tips for Styling Shorts Over Leggings
If you want to wear shorts over leggings in a fashionable way, follow these tips:
- Opt for fitted, non-bulky shorts. Baggy shorts will add excess volume and frumpiness.
- Choose shorts that hit mid-thigh or slightly longer for better proportions.
- Match the shorts close to the color of the leggings for a streamlined look.
- Add interest with patterns, subtle prints, or bold colors.
- Wear fitted leggings to balance the extra layer on top.
- Pair the outfit with knee-high boots or booties in colder weather.
- Try a shorter top, cropped jacket, or fitted sweater on top to show some waist.
- Cuff the shorts for a more polished, intentional vibe.
Examples of Stylish Short and Leggings Outfits
Here are a few examples of how to wear shorts over leggings in a fashionable, trendy way:
- Black leggings with cuffed dark denim shorts and an off-the-shoulder top
- Olive green leggings with matching fitted cargo shorts and a graphic tee
- Grey leggings with black bike shorts and an oversized sweater
- Patterned leggings with solid color shorts and a tucked in blouse
- Colored leggings with white jean shorts and a peasant crop top
As you can see, there are many stylish ways to pair shorts with leggings. Just be sure to follow the tips above to perfect the proportions and silhouette.
How to Choose Flattering Shorts for Leggings
Not all shorts work well layered over leggings. When shopping for shorts to wear over leggings, look for these characteristics:
- Fitted silhouette – Avoid shorts that are too loose, baggy, or boxy, as they will add unnecessary bulk.
- Mid-thigh to knee-length – Shorter shorts can look disproportionate with leggings.
- Flat front – Choose shorts with a smooth, flat front rather than pleats or pattern.
- Medium to heavy fabric – Thin, lightweight shorts will cling and add bulk.
- Structured waistband – A thick waistband helps balance the leggings.
- Minimal details – Clean, simple shorts pair best with patterned leggings.
Some flattering shorts options include structured bike shorts, fitted chino shorts, bermuda shorts, and casual tailored shorts. Dark denim cutoffs also work well over leggings.
Best Fabrics for Shorts to Wear Over Leggings
The fabric of the shorts makes a big difference in how the layered look comes together. These fabrics pair best with leggings under shorts:
- Denim – Classic jeans shorts offer structure and polish.
- Cotton twill – Provides support without adding bulk.
- Ponte knit – Gives a smooth, fitted look.
- Jersey – Lightweight but still substantial.
- Performance fabrics – Moisture-wicking shorts suit active outfits.
Heavier fabrics like denim and ponte knit work better than lightweight fabrics like linen or athleisure that could cling too much. Avoid shorts made from crisp fabrics like seersucker as they add too much volume.
Seasons to Wear Shorts Over Leggings
One advantage of layering shorts over leggings is that it allows you to wear leggings longer into fall and start wearing them earlier in spring. Here are the best seasons and temperatures to try shorts over leggings:
- Spring: 60-70°F – As temperatures warm up, pair leggings with shorts instead of winter boots and sweaters.
- Summer: 70-80°F – On cooler summer days or in air conditioned spaces.
- Fall: 50-60°F – Adds warmth as the weather cools down.
- Winter: 40-50°F – With warm boots and a jacket for cold weather looks.
During warm summer months over 80°F, shorts over leggings may be too warm unless indoors. For cold winter weather under 40°F, it’s better to just wear leggings or pants alone.
Shorts Over Leggings Outfit Ideas
Here are some chic outfit ideas for wearing shorts layered over leggings:
| Outfit | What to Wear |
|---|---|
| Casual Daytime | Black leggings, cuffed light denim shorts, graphic tee, jean jacket, sneakers |
| Coffee Date | Dark grey leggings, black bike shorts, cropped sweater, ankle booties |
| Brunch | Patterned leggings, khaki shorts, off the shoulder blouse, wedges |
| Run Errands | Colored leggings, dark denim shorts, drapey tank, crossbody bag |
| Travel Day | Black leggings, fitted cargo shorts, sweater, loafers |
As you can see, shorts layered over leggings work for casual to dressy occasions. Just be sure to pick tailored, well-fitting shorts and pair them with complementary tops and shoes.
How to Make Shorts and Leggings Appropriate for Work
If your workplace allows casual attire or business casual dress codes, you may be able to wear shorts and leggings to the office. Here’s how to make the look work-appropriate:
- Choose solid neutral leggings in black, navy, grey, or dark green.
- Select tailored Bermuda shorts or shorts in a crease-resistant fabric.
- Add a blazer, blouse or shell on top for polish.
- Wear flats, low pumps, or ankle booties for shoes.
- Skip patterns and overly distressed denim.
- Keep accessories minimal and professional.
- Carry a structured tote or work-appropriate handbag.
- Maintain a neat and tidy overall appearance.
The key is keeping the look streamlined and polished. Stay away from casual details like super short shorts, ripped denim, flip flops, or graphic tees.
Do’s and Don’ts of Wearing Shorts Over Leggings
Follow these do’s and don’ts for looking stylish in shorts layered over leggings:
Do:
- Do choose fitted, non-bulky shorts.
- Do match shorts and leggings close in color.
- Do pick leggings in a thick, opaque material.
- Do add definition at the waist like a belt or cropped top.
- Do pair the outfit with knee boots or booties.
- Do cuff or hem the shorts for polish.
Don’t:
- Don’t wear super short shorts that expose too much leg.
- Don’t pick baggy shorts that overwhelm the leggings.
- Don’t choose super lightweight shorts that cling to the leggings.
- Don’t layer shorts over sheer or see-through leggings.
- Don’t wear flimsy shorts with holes or tears in them.
- Don’t pair ill-fitting shorts with low quality leggings.
Finding Flattering Shorts to Wear Over Leggings
Here are some tips for finding shorts that are flattering layered over leggings:
- Look for shorts with stretch in the material to hug your shape rather than add volume.
- Try both mid-thigh and Bermuda or knee length shorts to see what flatters you.
- Experiment with different waist styles like high-rise orpaperbag waist to highlight or conceal your middle.
- Focus on dark, solid colors that match well with leggings and elongate the legs.
- Pay attention to the fit at the leg openings – too loose can look sloppy.
- Size down if needed to get shorts that aren’t loose in either the waist or thighs.
Stores like American Eagle, ASOS, Gap, and Old Navy offer lots of shorts styles that work well layered over leggings. Try on different silhouettes and lengths to see what complements your body type.
Conclusion
While shorts over leggings were once a debated fashion choice, the look has become widely accepted and stylish when done properly. The key is choosing tailored, short styles that match the leggings and pairing them with complementing tops and shoes. With the right proportions and details, wearing shorts over leggings can be fashionable for many seasons and occasions. Just be wary of looking sloppy or unfashionable by selecting unflattering silhouettes or colors. With a little practice, you can comfortably wear shorts layered over leggings for a cute and trendy look.