3 Stylist Tricks for Wearing the Long Shorts Trend

Aug 25, 2026

Cropped culottes, elongated Bermudas, tailored trouser shorts - whatever you want to call them; Long Shorts are a full-on trend for Pre-Fall & transitional style.

Copenhagen fashion week Getty images
There’s a fresh pant silhouette making its mark on Copenhagen street style! Long Shorts Street Style Outfit, photos courtesy of Getty Images

2026 long shorts are being styled in a much more elevated way than their casual silhouette would imply. Neutral color combinations, sleek accessories, sophisticated layering, and minimalist heels give the look a balanced, refined finish. Use this look as a surprisingly chic alternative to trousers, jeans, and skirts for everything from casual weekends to the office and going out. The key to making the long shorts trend work? It’s all about proportion, styling, and choosing the right footwear.

casual shorts outfit for 2026
photo credit: lindasabelstrom
casual shorts outfit idea for office
photo credit: nicoletaveras

Update Your Wardrobe for Fall 26:

Master the Silhouette by Noting These 3 Stylist Tips:

photo credit: @styledtherapy, @__paiden, @judyxkam, pinterest

1. Take Advantage of the Roomy Silhouette

One of the biggest advantages of the elongated Bermuda short is how roomy and forgiving it tends to be through the thigh. Look for styles with a relaxed leg, pleats, or a little extra volume for maximum coverage. If you typically avoid shorts because you don't like showing your knees, this silhouette also provides enough coverage to hit at or below the knee.

2. Proportion Matters

Because long Bermuda shorts often hit at the knee or just below it, they can visually shorten your leg. One of the easiest ways to create a longer, leaner line is to create balance through open footwear like a minimalist flat sandal or mesh flats. A little additional height can also make a major difference. Try a pointed-toe pump or kitten heel when you want the silhouette to feel especially polished. 

3. Try a Monochrome Look

Want to make long shorts feel instantly more sophisticated? Go monochrome.
Wearing one color from head to toe creates one continuous visual line, which can help counteract the leg-shortening effect of a knee-length hemline.

monochrome long shorts outfits
photo credit: pinterest

If We Had to Boil It Down to Three Trend-Right Outfits, It’d Be These:

Margot celebrity outfit idea
photo credit: Shutterstock, @yelizindunyasi, @styledtherapy

1. The “Margot Robbie” Look (Great for Casual)

Long tee + Bermuda shorts + minimalist flat or heeled sandal + matching minimalist accessories

For an easy, celebrity-inspired take on the long shorts trend, keep everything simple and streamlined. Start with a loose-fit 90s inspired long sleeve tee, add tailored Bermuda shorts, and finish with a sleek sandal and understated accessories.

Why it works: It’s elevated, casual, transitional between seasons, and great for travel.

This is the perfect pre-fall & casual summer outfit for travel and lowkey outings. Choose monochrome basics, a structured handbag, and modern sunglasses. 

runway long shorts outfits
photo credit: Fforme Spring 2026 Ready-to-Wear collection, lindasabelstrom, pinterest

2. The Runway Look (Great for the Office)

Lightweight trench + tee + black trouser shorts + black heeled sandals

This is where the tailored Bermuda short trend really shines. Treat your long shorts almost like you would a pair of trousers. A lightweight trench instantly adds structure, while a simple tee keeps the outfit modern and relaxed.

Why it works: The neutral colors and trench make this look feel chic enough to wear to the office. 

Depending on your office dress code, this can be a fresh alternative to the traditional office trousers outfit or summer workwear look.

going out long shorts outfit
photo credit: @_olhirst_, pinterest

3. The Statement Top Look (Great for Going Out)

Peplum, one-shoulder, or asymmetric top + long shorts + kitten heels or pumps

Long shorts don't have to be casual. In fact, pairing them with a statement top is one of the easiest ways to transform the silhouette into a going-out outfit.

Try a structured peplum top, an elegant one-shoulder blouse, or an asymmetric draped top with long shorts. The contrast between the more relaxed bottom and a feminine, sculptural top creates a balanced silhouette.

Why it works: Whether it’s a structured peplum or relaxed asymmetric draped top, both add fun shapes and work to feminize the shape of your long shorts.

Finish with kitten heels, pointed-toe pumps, or sleek heeled sandals and add a small clutch or shoulder bag.

More Ways to Wear The Trend:

Here are some more outfit ideas we're seeing on social media.

pre-fall outfit idea with jacket
photo credit: pinterest

Trending layers like thin sweaters and funnel neck crop jackets are great for transitional weather.

cardigan and sweater with shorts outfit
photo credit: pinterest, @styledtherapy

Camo cargos are a fun way to incorporate print into streetwear.

cargo pants trend
photo credit: @frankieshop, @lucy_edwards7, Getty images, pinterest

"Jorts" (yes, jean shorts) are elevated with kitten heels and minimalist blouses.

jean shorts outfits for 2026
photo credit: pinterest, lindasabelstrom

Add a blazer to your outfit for an office-ready look with a casual bend.

blazer with shorts outfit for office
photo credit: pinterest

Ready to try the trend? Shop the collection below.

Aritzia Touchpoint Short (9 Colors)
Reformation Satin Shorts (Black or Cream)
Drew Linen Short
Tencel Cotton Linen Navy Short
Faux Snakeskin Long Shorts
Graphite Sandy Short
Black Leather Shorts
Brown Leather Shorts
Tailored Bermuda Shorts
Organza Sheer Layer Bermuda Shorts
UNIQLO Long Shorts
Cadet Camo Shorts
Denim Wide Leg Relaxed Bermudas
Banana Republic Low rise Denim Shorts
Mother High Rise Denim Shorts
Levis Super Baggy Jorts
Olive Cargo Shorts
Arielle City Crepe Shorts

The Long Shorts Trend FAQS:

Q: Are long shorts flattering for different body types?

Absolutely. Long shorts can be especially flattering if you prefer more coverage through the thigh or knee. Use styling tricks like open footwear, heels for the added height, or pairing monochrome pieces to create a longer, balanced silhouette.

Q: What shoes should I wear with long Bermuda shorts?

The right footwear can make all the difference. Minimalist flat sandals, mesh flats, kitten heels, and pointed-toe pumps all work well. If the shorts hit at or below the knee, a little extra height or an open shoe can help visually elongate the legs.

Q: Can I wear long shorts to the office or for a dressier occasion?

Yes! Tailored long shorts can be surprisingly polished when styled with sophisticated pieces. Try pairing them with a lightweight trench or blazer for the office, or a statement top and kitten heels or pumps for an elevated going-out look.

Why Choose Meg Gallagher Personal Stylist?

You don't need to understand fashion to look exceptional. You need the right person in your corner. With 30 years of styling across Los Angeles and New York, I build wardrobes for people who want results.