It’s time for another “Wardrobe Staples” post, this time talking all about that classic summer piece - a pair of denim shorts.
Now, I know that denim shorts may not be for everyone, but for those denim lovers out there who are fans of a more casual, relaxed style - you’ll understand my love for them and why I consider them to be one of my “summer wardrobe essentials”.
They have that relaxed, laid-back vibe and just scream “effortless style” (at least that’s what I think when I see someone else wearing a perfectly fitting pair!)
Like finding the perfect fitting pair of jeans, finding your staple denim shorts can be a little like searching for a needle in a haystack, but today I thought I’d share with you my favourite pair, why I love them and talk through some of the things I look for when finding the perfect denim shorts.
Obviously there are a tonne of different style to choose from - looser, longer styles, tighter fitted super short ones (not my kinda thing, but hey, if it floats your boat - go for it!), more tailored designs and ones that are distressed with heaps of rips and tears. Dark denim, light denim, acid washed, coloured denim… the options are endless.
Obviously it depends on how you like to dress, your personal style, lifestyle and preferences!
I’m happy to say that I’ve finally found my perfect pair that ticks all the boxes for what I look for - here’s why I love them
(maybe it will give you some inspiration when you’re hunting down your own!)
1) The higher waist
I love the high waisted style of these as I feel like they really emphasise my smallest point and create a more hourglass silhouette, making them flattering and perfect to tuck tops into.
2) The way they flare out and are looser around the legs
In her book “How Not To Wear Black”, Anna Murphy (Fashion Director at The times) talks about ways of tricking the eye into thinking we have a more hourglass shape. (In no way is she saying that other shapes are bad, the hourglass is just the most balanced and in-proportion look). One of the ways to do this is by adding a little more volume to the top or bottom half of our bodies, thereby making our waist appear smaller.
I find the way these shorts flare out to be a perfect example of this. It means my waist appears smaller, and the fact that they don’t cling around my thighs means my legs look a little slimmer too!!
3) Nice thick denim and positioning of the back pockets
Another reason I love these is the weight of the denim. It’s thick and not stretchy, so really holds you in, rather than clinging to unwanted places! (They’re still super comfy I promise!)
I also appreciate the positioning of the pockets. Having them placed a little higher on the bum makes them much more flattering. Little details like that can make a big difference!
4) The lighter wash
I love the lighter wash of these shorts - they’re a blue denim but not too blue, and have a really relaxed look to them. Obviously everyone will have a different preference when it comes to what kind of denim wash they prefer, but when it comes to shorts this is the look I love!
5) The embroidered daisy detailing
This is just an extra detail that adds a little more fun, something to make them a little more “special” and unique.
I feel like this floral addition is perfect for me because it gives the shorts a bit more of a feminine flare (I adore feminine styles) and I love that even though I’m dressing super casually, I can still feel girlie and pretty. It’s something that few people would notice, but because I know it’s there, it makes me feel fab (and that’s what style is all about - dressing to feel your best, not to impress anyone else!)
These little extra details can be different for everyone and depend on your preferences. Maybe you love a frayed unfinished hem, or little added details like pearls (remember when that trend was going around - so fun!), or paint splashes… it all depends on your personal style and what you love!
So those are just a few of my tips of things to consider when searching for your perfect pair of shorts.
Of course your preferences may be totally different to mine, but these are just things that I find are flattering for me and fit well with my own style. These are details that I know will work well for me in years to come, regardless of the trends that may come and go, and if you have a similar style to me, maybe it’s given you a little inspiration!
I couldn’t find a link to my exact shorts, but these ones from General Pants are the same brand and cut, just without the daisy detailing. They’re the Insight “Dylan Mom Shorts” (I’m wearing size 26 for reference). I’d highly recommend them, although do keep in mind I’m quite short at 5 foot 2 so if you’re taller they may be a little short!
I’ve linked a few similar styles below (please note these are affiliate links!)
If you enjoyed the post or it’s given you a little inspiration leave me a comment below or comes say hi over on Instagram @laurennatalia.co
Let me know if you’re a denim shorts lover too!
Lots of Love
Lauren
xxx
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