How to Style Paperbag Shorts in 5 Steps

Paperbag shorts feature a high waist, a pleated waistline, and often a less-fitted leg. The pleated waistline often features a built-in belt or tie-waist to add some shape and structure to the gathered or pleated midsection. Due to their relaxed fit and comfortable nature, these shorts make popular styling pieces during the warmer months. Incorporate a pair of chic paperbag waist shorts into a breezy spring outfit or a casual summer day ensemble.

Follow these outfit ideas and styling tips to incorporate this fashion trend into your wardrobe seamlessly.

1. 1. Assemble a work-friendly look. Sleek paperbag shorts defy casual expectations and make perfect office attire when styled correctly. Try tucking a tailored button-down into your shorts and layering an open cardigan or blazer over the top. Finish the look with a pair of espadrilles, low heels, or Mary Janes.
2. 2. Layer mindfully. Add warmth and style to your paperbag shorts outfit by layering the right piece over your top. The key is to choose a cardigan or blazer that hits you at your hips or below. Anything that hits too close to the waistline can add bulk to the outfit. One exception to this rule is a cropped leather jacket that doesn’t interfere with the waist detailing.
3. 3. Pair with occasion-appropriate shoes. A wide variety of footwear options complement paperbag shorts. A night on the town might call for a higher chunky heel to lengthen your legs. For the office, a two-to-three-inch heel strikes the perfect balance between elegance and formality. Note that wearing flats with paperbag shorts can make the wearer appear shorter.
4. 4. Play with patterns and materials. Experiment with paperbag shorts in different materials and patterns to compose outfits for various occasions and times of the year. A classic summer outfit could consist of some pastel linen or denim shorts and a tucked-in T-shirt. For a night out, style a pair of animal-print or striped shorts with a neutral crop top.
5. 5. Tuck your top. High-waisted paperbag shorts are meant to show off your waist, so style them with tops that allow you to do that. Unless you’re styling the shorts with a crop top or bodysuit—which won’t cover up the waist detailing—opt for tuckable tops without too much excess fabric, which can create unnecessary volume underneath the shorts. Style your shorts with a fitted tank top, ribbed turtleneck, or light camisole that won’t bunch up.

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