Here’s how to style micro shorts in an elevated way.
Last year, hemlines soared as the micro miniskirt made a resurgence and some people abandoned pants in lieu of tights. Now it seems another super short style has taken the top spot when it comes to stylish transpersonal dressing: Booty shorts (known in the fashion world as micro shorts) are tapping into the Y2K revival that’s been taking over the fashion scene.
Why are booty shorts having such a big moment?
Hot off the Spring 2024 runways, the return of the micro short comes as no surprise. Classic black booty shorts appeared at shows from Chanel to Chloé, while Tom Ford and Gucci showcased the trend with fun fabrics like leather and denim. Yet, the style has been in and out of the fashion zeitgeist for decades.
“Short shorts originated in the 1930s, where women would be seen wearing them as a form of swimwear,” explains stylist Ashley Galang Rico. “By the 1960s, when there was a high demand for denim, people began cropping their jeans, turning them into raw hem cutoffs.”
During the 1970s, the TV hit Dukes of Hazzard shot the short shorts into the spotlight. “Cutoffs began to be more common, with an even shorter style called Daisy Dukes named after Catherine Bach’s character in the television series.” The Daisy Dukes style evolved into hot pants — tight-fitting short shorts made from different fabrics like velour, corduroy and leather.
Now, they’re back in a new way. Sharing similar ideals of the “no pants trend,” Galang Rico says booty shorts are an easier way to try going pants-free, while still standing out. “The micro short or no pants trend is not only a statement but a trend that challenges notions of modesty in clothing, pushing us to embrace our bodies.”
How to wear booty shorts this year
“Both women and men can wear the micro short trend without feeling out of place if styled with the right pieces,” notes Galang Rico. The thigh-grazing style has been spotted on celebs like Zendaya, SZA and Kristen Stewart, giving us plenty of outfit inspo for the warmer days ahead.
Galang Rico suggests pairing the daring shorts with simple basics like a white shirt or knit sweater. For outerwear, a long overcoat or oversized blazer helps to balance out the revealing nature of the shorts and takes the look from gym class to chic street style. This outfit formula bodes well with sheer black hosiery or over-the-knee socks to balance out the proportions.
“To complete the look, my footwear of choice would be either a pump or [a pair of] combat boots,” she shares. Dreading showing that much leg? Pair your mini shorts with thigh-high leather boots for a tough but sexy look. Just remember: the shorter, the better.
The booty shorts trend isn’t just for one body type. “The fabrics made for micro shorts should have a stretch, to be more form fitting and forgiving, especially for curvier women such as knit and elastane,” says Galang Rico. The shorts silhouette is especially fetching in a dolphin cut, where there’s infinite room for our thighs to breathe.
The best booty shorts 2024
Reformation June Short
Behold: the classic black booty shorts. Perfect for a night on the town, these micro shorts are designed to be fitted throughout with a straight leg.
Made with 100 per cent TENCEL Lyocell, a lightweight woven suiting fabric, wearing them is a breezy experience.
If you’re not feeling black, they’re available in a second equally chic shade of greenish grey.
FEOYA Booty Shorts for Women
Once a relic of vintage gym class attire, this classic athletic short is making a comeback. Thin (but not see-through) breathable and moisture-wicking, these high-rise micro shorts are the ultimate pick for hot weather.
Made with 100 per cent stretchy cotton, the cut of the shorts hugs thighs perfectly, effortlessly molding to your body during any activity. Best of all, the style is available in over 20 colours!
Nepest Women’s Running Athletic Short
These pastel short shorts are perfect to wear on a casual day. Boasting a three-inch inseam, the mid-rise shorts are crafted with a breathable poly-spandex blend that’s bound to become a staple in your wardrobe.
Silence + Noise Metallic Micro Short
Make your next outfit shine with these eye-catching micro shorts. Designed with a super-fitted silhouette and a low rise, these shorts are bound to start a conversation on the dance floor.
Kipro Women Booty Shorts
Striking the ideal balance of comfort and ventilation, these shorts are ideal for a relaxing yoga class, a mid-day run or simply lounging around the house. They feature a sweat-wicking fabric that’s cool to the touch and fits like a second skin.
Kepblom Womens Metallic Booty Shorts
Is rave culture back? These high-waisted shorts indicate yes. Suitable for all body types, the high-waisted metallic hot pants provide a comfortable fit that hugs and flatters curves. The no-fuss style is easy to wear and elevates any look.
Mango Skin-effect Pleated Shorts
Faux leather, high-waisted — what’s not to love? These chic shorts are the epitome of sophistication. Perfect for transitioning between day and night, the pleather is an effortless choice for a dinner with the girls.
Dynamite Micro Tweed Wool Mini Shorts
Channel your inner Cher Horowitz with this pair of tweed micro shorts. Made of a polyester-wool blend, the shorts are designed to be fitted on the body, making a statement with each step.
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