I’m Not Wearing Shorts This Summer-Here’s What I’m Buying Instead

Photo Credit:@georgiaebayliss

Let’s just say it, shorts are not everyone’s summer staple. Whether it’s the riding up, the awkward length, or just never feeling quite right in them, I’ve officially hit my limit. This summer, I’m skipping the shorts altogether—and not looking back.

But that doesn’t mean I’m sweltering in jeans or hiding inside all season. I’ve found breezy, comfortable, actually-flattering alternatives that keep me cool and feel good to wear. If you’re over shorts too, here’s what I’m reaching for instead.

 PS: If you’re building your warm-weather wardrobe, don’t miss the free Spring-to-Summer Wardrobe Checklist—it’ll help you shop smarter, not harder.

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For errands and backyard hangs

Loose linen joggers or cotton drawstring pants hit that sweet spot between comfort and casual.

Quince

100% European Linen Tapered Ankle Pants

$39.90

Quince

100% European Linen Wide Leg Pants

$39.90

When I want to stay cool but still look polished

Midi skirts in cotton or poplin with a front slit feel light but structured—easy to throw on, even easier to wear.

Amazon

Womens Summer Flowy Boho Maxi Skirt

$33.99

Amazon

Flowy Pleated Skirts

$32.99

For sightseeing on vacation

Elastic-waist culottes or lightweight matching sets pack well, feel great, and look like I tried (even if I didn’t).

Abercrombie

Linen-Blend Pull-On Pant

$80

Abercrombie

Poplin Wide Leg Pull-On Pant

$70

For lounging at home

Ribbed knit pants and terry skirts have become my go-tos. They’re just as easy as shorts—but a lot more forgiving.

Amazon

Elastic Waist Ribbed Knit Loose pants

$24.99

Amazon

Sweat Skirt High Waist Mini Skirts Skorts with Pockets

$19.99

For brunch with the girls

Wide-leg pants in bold prints or tiered maxi skirts are my new “fun but effortless” formula.

SZ Blockprints

Salvia Blue Lisbon Print Disco Pants

$258

Tuckernuck

Ivy Sonata Denim Florence Pants

$188

When I want something flowy but not a full-on dress

Rompers and midi sundresses with adjustable straps give me that no-fuss feeling without the shorts struggle.

Farm Rio

Sand Richelieu Cup Midi Dress

$348

Pomander Place

Kelly Green Tweed Campbell Romper

$148

Outdoor events where I want to feel elevated

Satin cargos and belted lightweight trousers look chic and photograph well—without sacrificing comfort.

Nordstrom

Milan Satin Cargo Pant

$198.00

Nordstrom

Kieran Tie Waist Wide Leg Pants

$79.00

For those days I want to avoid thigh chafing

Soft-lined pants or slip skirts do all the work so I don’t have to layer shorts underneath.

Nordstrom

Flowey Cover-Up Pants

$59.00

Nordstrom

Smooth Maxi Skirt

$92.00

In a hot office where I still need to look professional

Ankle-grazing wide-legs in drapey fabrics feel like pajamas, but pass the 9-to-5 test.

Tuckernuck

Navy Suzette Sportswear Flare Pants

$395

Tuckernuck

Navy and White Embroidered Emme Pants

$228

And on days when I just don’t want to think about it

Anything that feels like me—maxi dresses, gauze pants, soft skirts. Because confidence always looks better than shorts that don’t fit quite right.

Tuckernuck

Tan & Pink Vines Bennett Maxi Dress

$168

Tuckernuck

White Halter Marcie Dress

$228