This post was originally published in 2017 and has been updated for 2025 with fresh ideas and outfit inspiration.
If the thought of putting on a pair of shorts makes you cringe, you aren’t alone. A lot of women prefer something a little more flattering or just feel more comfortable in other options. Fortunately, there are plenty of stylish ways to stay cool all summer long without reaching for shorts.
And if you do like to wear shorts, you may also like this popular post: Dos and Don’ts for Wearing Shorts.
What To Wear Instead of Shorts
Here are five alternatives to shorts, along with current style trends and shopping suggestions to help you stay cool and stylish all summer long.
1. Dresses
Dresses are one of the easiest alternatives to shorts because they’re one and done—no coordinating required! I don’t wear dresses much in the fall and winter, but I definitely like to have a few options for the summer months, especially for those times when shorts or jeans don’t feel quite right.
Tommy Bahama Palma A Dora Sheath (M) // Paul Green Hadley Platform Sneaker (8) (option) // Celine sunnies
Style trends to watch for:
- Maxi dresses are making a comeback this season, with flowy styles and minimalist silhouettes trending for summer, and midi dresses are still going strong.
- Shorter dresses are popular again, as well. Styling them with flat sandals or sneakers can help balance the look if you’re worried about the length. Knee-length dresses remain a timeless choice, but they’re a little harder to find at the moment.
- Shirt dresses in crisp poplin or breezy linen are having a moment, denim and denim-look fabrics are everywhere, and t-shirt dresses are as popular as ever!
KUT from the Kloth Sleeveless Denim Dress (M) // Veronica Beard Via Slides (8) // similar bag // wood earrings
A few of my personal favorites:
Looking for even more options? Here’s a huge roundup of casual dresses that are perfect alternatives to shorts this spring and summer!
#3. Linen & Palazzo Pants
Wide-leg pants are coming in strong this spring, and they’re a great way to stay cool while still looking polished. Linen and lightweight cotton fabrics are especially good options for hot weather, since they’re more breathable than denim or chinos.
Frank & Eileen Tuscany Getaway Set c/o (S) // Paul Green Hadley Platform Sneakers (8) (option)
Style trends to watch for:
- Wide-leg silhouettes are everywhere right now. They’re relaxed, airy, and perfect for warmer days.
- Matching sets are trending too—a fun, modern way to style linen pants. I especially love them paired with a vest for a fresh, polished look.
- Pleats and tailored waistbands are replacing elastic styles that were popular for so long. I like how they add more structure and polish to linen pants.
- Tie-waist styles and supersoft denim options offer an easy, beachy vibe that’s perfect for everyday wear. They pair best with shorter, fitted tops and tanks.
- Neutral colors like white, gray, and mocha are especially popular for a versatile, chic look—but fun prints are out there too if you want something a little more playful.
KUT from the Kloth Topaz-Wide Leg Linen Pants (6) // similar jacket (on sale!) // EVEREVE Sarina V-Neck Tank (S) // STAUD Dante flip flops // Rebecca Minkoff raffia bag
A few of my personal favorites:
Shop these and more options below:
#4. Skirts & Skorts
Skirts are another a good option if you’re looking for a casual alternative to shorts in warm weather. They’re just as cool and comfortable—and they’re definitely having a moment this year.
old Sanctuary sweater vest // Pistola Alice Denim Maxi (29) // Sam Edelman Cohen Slingback Flats (8)
I’m not much of a skirt girl myself, but I do like to keep a denim one in my spring and summer wardrobe for those times when I want to look a little more pulled together but still keep that casual denim vibe. Of course, if you really want to stay cool, there are tons of lightweight fabrics out there that feel even breezier than denim.
Style trends to watch for:
- Midi and maxi lengths are still going strong and are easy to style for everyday wear. Flowier A-line shapes and tiered skirts are especially popular for a relaxed, summery vibe.
- Mini skirts are very much still trending, especially when styled casually with sneakers or flat sandals for a laid-back look. Straight and slightly structured minis feel the most current.
- Knee-length skirts are a little less on-trend right now, but they can still work if the style includes modern details—think a sleek column silhouette, fresh tailoring, or updated fabrics like linen or lightweight denim.
- Matching sets are trending big time in the skirt category too, with coordinating tops and skirts creating an easy, polished look for summer.
- Soft denim, breezy cotton poplin, and gauzy linen blends are all popular skirt fabrics this season. Eyelet is also having a moment.
A quick tip for skirts and dresses:
If you deal with chafing in the summer, Thigh Society Cooling Shorts are an awesome solution to wear under dresses and skirts. And if you prefer a little more coverage and ease of movement, skorts are another great alternative.
Shop skirts for spring/summer:
#5. Jumpsuits & Rompers
Jumpsuits and rompers are a fun one-and-done option for summer. They’re casual, easy to wear, and a great alternative when you want something simple but stylish.
Vuori Falls Jumpsuit c/o (M) // old Dolce Vita sandals
Style trends to watch for:
A few quick notes:
If you’re willing to give them a try, jumpsuits can be surprisingly practical—especially if you find one that’s easy to slide on and off. They’re a great alternative when you want a casual but pulled-together outfit without the hassle of coordinating separates.
I rounded up a few that caught my eye:
I hope this post is helpful! What are your favorite alternatives to shorts?
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