The laid-back style of Bermuda shorts has made them a staple in closets around the world. They’re perfect for summer and fall days, warm and chilly nights, and even lazy weekends. But while this style is super easy to put together and looks great (who doesn’t love spending less time getting dressed?), it can be tricky when it comes to choosing tops. Today I bring you a nice collection of possible street style ideas with bermuda shorts you can try this fall.
Bermudas look cool with:
-blazers;
-sweaters;
-leather jackets;
-shirts;
-crop tops and other short tops;
There are some basic rules of thumb, but there are some exceptions to those rules, too. And even if you’re wearing the right thing to go with your shorts, it can still look off if you choose the wrong colors or patterns. The key to finding the right tops for your bermuda shorts is to know how this style works best. Here’s what you need to know:
If you’re wearing a top that looks like a dress, it doesn’t look right with bermuda shorts. The only exception is when the top itself is a kind of tunic-like top. This also means that long shirts don’t pair well with Bermudas. Shorts and long shirts work as a solid “no” option, too, but it’s probably best not to wear these as options if you have better options around.
How tight should they be?
You see this all the time: people wearing shorts that are too baggy. It looks terrible. The bottom line is that shorts should fit as closely as possible to your legs, without stretching or bunching up. This means avoiding loose and baggy options, but there are always exceptions. If you want to wear your shorts with a crop top or tank top, make sure whatever you’re wearing underneath fits accordingly- thin bermuda are best, but anything close works.
Colors
If you’re going to be wearing shorts that show off those legs, it’s best to stay away from dark colors. They aren’t the best-looking option with bare legs, so stick with bright and light colors instead. This goes for prints as well as solids. You can maybe get away with a dark color if you’re wearing tights or socks, but make sure those colors complement one another or else it will look funny (and make sure your socks are long enough). Also, choose lighter colors for short-shorts dresses rather than darker ones.
Complimenting colors
If you’re going to be wearing a short-shorts dress with a tonal bottom and white top, it’s best to stick with light colors on the bottom and highlights on the top. The same goes for shorts that have solids paired with contrast bottoms (dark or light colors). If you like bright prints, make sure you match your solid top with the print on your shorts.
Patterns are also better suited for classic and simple outfit ideas, as they go well together without being too busy. Shorts with patterns are also perfect for layering. If you’re wearing solids, stick with simple prints or patterns that don’t have too many colors (so the shorts don’t overwhelm that part of the outfit).
Accessories
Shorts should be covered up and they shouldn’t be the focal point of your outfit. If you choose to wear accessories, make sure those work well with your shorts- bracelets can be a great way to tie in a bold top, while a chunky necklace can also go nice with shorts. You can put bright colored hats on for a pop of color, or even some statement earrings if you want to keep it simple.
It’s also important to keep in mind that you don’t want your accessories to look like they’re “sitting” on your shorts. So unless they really go well with your outfit, accessories should be worn on your wrists and neck- not around the waist or ankles, especially not at the same time. And please put those rings away- don’t wear them on anything other than your hands. Those bare legs aren’t going to do themselves justice with so many shiny distractions.
Keep it clean
This applies for everything you wear, but shorts are no exception. It’s best to avoid rough fabrics that are going to catch easily. Even better are washable fabrics like cotton or silk, as those will be long lasting.
Layers
You can layer your shorts for even more coverage. Double layers and shirts with knitwear that have long sleeves underneath are great options to use to give your shorts some cover without making you fully into a shirt-and-shorts outfit. You might also want to throw in some tights if you have the right color and they match fabrics on top of your shorts. A winter parka look is also another good way to go with bermuda shorts as a main piece, especially paired with a fur vest or a bomber jacket (it’s all about the heaters).
Color blocking
As we said already, Bermuda Shorts are best when they’re complimenting the garments on top of them. Two good options are color blocking and print matching. Colored shorts paired with a colorful top is a great way to mix things up while keeping the clothing from being overwhelming. A solid top with a print that matches your shorts is also a cool way to go!
Patterns should be avoided when it comes to shorts. It’s just best to stick with solids, unless you’re wearing a short-shorts dress, which you can probably wear some patterns on as well (the dress won’t be too busy because it’s covered by your shorts).
The bottom line
In the end, there really is no wrong way to wear shorts. If you’re comfortable with how they look, do you! The key is to be creative and try new things. But remember this: short-shorts are meant to be a cute addition to your outfit, not the entire thing. Stick with classic pieces that have a great fit and complement one another, rather than flashy pieces that just ruin it for everyone else. The right ways to wear short-shorts, as a final thought, are as follows:
