I Tried the Controversial Summer Shorts Trend Only Fashion People Truly Get

(Image credit: @nikki.chwatt)

Over the summer, my Instagram feed has been inundated with European and American fashion trendsetters taking part in the controversial pajama-shorts movement. While opinions on this trend vary widely, I prefer to judge fashion trends only after I’ve tried them. This is why I decided to experiment with the boxer-shorts trend and form my own opinion.

After trying out different outfit combinations, I began to understand why, according to Google Trends, there has been a surge in searches for terms like “poplin boxer shorts” and “women’s boxer shorts” in the past month. A new wave of fashion-forward women seems to be embracing these bottoms because of how lightweight and comfortable they are for all-day wear, which are ideal traits for sweltering temperatures. Plus, they lend an abundance of styling possibilities. These versatile bottoms are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re meeting friends for brunch or adventuring in a new city.

If you’re curious about how to style boxer shorts in unique and chic ways, keep reading. Ahead, I’ve put together tasteful and thoughtful outfit ideas that go beyond pairing the shorts with the matching button-down shirt.

1

Nikki Chwatt wears red striped shorts, a white button-down shirt, a white t-shirt, burgundy loafers, and a beige trench coat.

The best part about the boxer-shorts trend is how versatile it is. Creating a transitional outfit is a straightforward way to get more use out of the shorts. Grab a long trench coat and a button-down shirt. This combination effortlessly makes the bottoms fall appropriate.

Shop the look:

Nordstrom

Pull-On Poplin Shorts

Slub Cotton T-Shirt

Timeless Trench Coat

Banana Republic

Timeless Trench Coat

2

Nikki Chwatt wears brown striped shorts, a beige sweater vest, black caged sandals, and a black Bottega Veneta bag.

Boxer-style shorts have become increasingly popular, and a unique and modern way to wear them is by pairing them with a knitted vest. This stylish combination creates a sophisticated silhouette that perfectly balances casual and chic. While many might opt for chunky sneakers, I enhanced the outfit by pairing it with fisherman-style sandals, adding a visually appealing and unconventional touch.

Shop the look:

Good American

Poplin Shorts

Terra Vest

Lovers and Friends

Terra Vest

Ancient Greek Sandals, x Lucy Williams Andros Sandals

Ancient Greek Sandals x Lucy Williams

Andros Sandals

3

Nikki Chwatt wears a denim shirt, navy striped shorts, and black ballet flats.

I’ve been eyeing the British brand Aexae for a while now, so when I was researching pajama-inspired shorts and came across its striped iteration, I knew it was the perfect opportunity to test it out.

The bottoms have an oversize fit, so I paired them with a fitted denim shirt to create a well-balanced look that exudes an elevated yet minimalistic style. To maintain this aesthetic, I completed the outfit with classic ballet flats. This outfit formula is one I highly recommend re-creating because it’s simple but fashion-forward.