6 Elegant Denim-Shorts Outfits to Try

Regardless of whether or not denim shorts are “in” at any given time, I have always worn them and will always wear them. I grew up in South America and now live in New York again, and they’ve always been one of my nonnegotiable wardrobe staples for the months of summer heat. Currently, my favourite pairs have around a 3″ inseam and finished hems, but I’m no stranger to denim cutoffs either. And yes, I realise that we often report on alternatives to denim shorts, and I get it—they’re not for everyone. But if you are team denim shorts—even just a bit—stay with me.

Like me, I’ve noticed that even the most elevated dressers are treating denim shorts as a basic this summer, and are finding fresh ways to style them, as opposed to pairing them with the go-to T-shirt and sneakers. Like jeans, the outfit options for denim shorts are endless, and the ones that are standing out the most to me right now are the elegant ones. It’s actually quite easy to make any type of denim shorts—from short cutoffs to bermudas—if you pair them with polished, elevated pieces.

If you’d like some inspiration, I found six stellar examples of elegant denim shorts outfits to wear for the remainder of the warm days (some of which will even work in the autumn). Keep scrolling to start outfit planning and shop key pieces to create these elegant denim shorts outfits yourself.

Shop 6 Chic Denim Shorts Outfits:

1. Oversize Blazer + Button-Down Shirt + Bermuda Shorts + Pumps

Style Notes: An oversized blazer layered over a crisp button‑down adds structure to relaxed knee‑length bermudas. Swap trainers for pumps to instantly elevate the look—perfect for city brunch or smart‑casual office wear.

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2. Crochet Shirt + Denim Cutoffs + Crochet Flats

Style Notes: Mix textural appeal by pairing a crochet shirt with raw‑hem denim shorts. Finish with your crochet or lace‑inspired flats for an artisanal, on‑trend feel.

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3. Bodysuit + White Cutoffs + Block-Heel Shoes

Style Notes: A sleek bodysuit tucks neatly into white denim cut‑offs, offering clean lines. Block‑heel sandals or mules lift the silhouette while remaining wearable all day.

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4. Trench Coat + Button-Down Shirt + Bermuda Shorts + Flip-Flops

Style Notes: Throw a lightweight trench over a crisp shirt and bermudas for layering that feels elevated yet effortless. A simple leather flip‑flop adds a warm‑weather finish.

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5. Ruffled Blouse + Denim Cutoffs + Mesh Flats

Style Notes: A blouse with romantic ruffles softens tough denim shorts, while mesh ballet flats introduce airy sophistication—perfect for garden parties or city strolls.