WIW - Casual Summer Shorts Combos

I wasn't sure I would post these simple, hot weather casual outfits but as Angie made it her featured ensemble today, I changed my mind.

1 -- This is the dressiest of the outfits with the button down and refined ankle strap wedges.
2 - Shorter shorts.  I don't think I left the house.
3 - Knee shorts.
4 - Short cargo shorts and the same breezy denim top.  My strategy with shorter shorts is to wear them sized up and looser.  I think this helps make them more age appropriate and keeps the look from being vulgar.

Outfit details:
1 - J Brand mid-thigh roll ups from last year; J Crew shirt from MaryK (thanks!!), Sam Edelman wedges and Madewell belt.
2 - Rock & Republic fringe shorts from last year; cold shoulder top from boutique in Tahoe (purchased with forum member Mo).  My top favorite sandals, Matiko Keeley from 3 years ago.
3 - J Brand dark wash knee shorts, F21 tencel denim shirt, Nine West sandals, Zara striped sweater.
4 - Wal*Mart cargo shorts remixed with same F21 top and Matiko sandals.

 
Thanks for looking and commenting.  Any suggestions for improvement are welcome!

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26 Comments

  • Parsley replied 10 years ago

    These are terrific examples of Angie's formula, Denise!
    You look great in shorts- either short or long.

  • jayne replied 10 years ago

    wow, i mean wow, you make long shorts look soo good.  I loved 2 and 4 was a close second.  I guess the necklace and almost matching shoes just did it for me

  • rachylou replied 10 years ago

    Just amazingly good!

  • Inge replied 10 years ago

    Look at you, Miss Legs! You really wear all shorts lengths equally well, Denise. No extra suggestions, as I think all four outfits are perfect as is.
    I adore the dressy vibe of outfit 1 with the white button-down and those fab ankle strap wedges. Love how your legs look even longer with the tan sandals in look 2, and the statement necklace is such a good choice here. I also love that shade of blue (sleeveless denim shirt) with the khaki shorts in outfit 4, and the necklace is, again, the icing on the cake. You have a real knack for picking jewellery that adds extra interest to layerless Summer looks!

    Thanks so much for posting these!

  • Thistle replied 10 years ago

    Wow!!  Shorts love you!  Really like all of the examples, but #1 knocks it out of the park. Just love it.

  • Adelfa replied 10 years ago

    So glad you posted these, Denise! I wouldn't change a thing either. And you photograph so tall!

  • Ornella replied 10 years ago

    Are you kidding me? Why would you not post these? They are perfect: very "you", look great, practical. This is what you live in and this is what I personally like to see. This is what inspires.

    I love them all. I am amazed how different they all are, yet they look and feel like Denise in every single element.

  • peekaboo replied 10 years ago

    Great looks!  I really love the sandals in the last photo.

  • Suz replied 10 years ago

    LOVE!!! When I saw Angie's blog post I was so hoping that you would post a few of your outfits, because I knew you would be wearing shorts. And honestly, Denise, you need have no fear whatever about going out in any length of shorts whatsoever. You successfully de-bombshell the short shorts with the looser tops and low heeled sandals, and every single one of these outfits manages to be both stylish and practical for your life. Thank you for sharing them! 

  • MsMaven replied 10 years ago

    Every one is a winner.  What lovely legs you have.  #2 took my breath away--not what I was expecting at all.  It's hard to pick a favorite.  I love the necklace with the shorts.  

  • Susie replied 10 years ago

    Casual seems so simple yet it can be so difficult to make it look stylish. YOU make it look effortless. Thanks for sharing these great looks.

  • Firecracker (Sharan) replied 10 years ago

    These are all so fab! Thank you for posting them. I don't know if I could actually copy these looks, but I am inspired to try for similar effects. Love what you do with jewelry and footwear to make these very casual outfits look chic.
    I like your haircut in 1. It frames your face so nicely.

  • Day Vies replied 10 years ago

    You have so much fun with your shoes/sandals! I have no suggestions for improvement -- I'm just shamelessly enjoying the eye candy.

  • annagybe replied 10 years ago

    I adore #1.

  • JulieJohn replied 10 years ago

    Great, great, great, great! I love them all. You rock with simplicity and cool chic.

  • Caro in Oz replied 10 years ago

    Inge said it all so well :) You look fantastic in these outfits - I'm taking notes (from Suz too). #1 is my favourite - so cool in every sense of the word.

  • kellygirl replied 10 years ago

    Awesome, Denise. You do shorts so well. I can't pick a fave because they are all so hip and fun! LOVE  them all. 

  • Deborah replied 10 years ago

    Ok see this is how I would like to look on the lazy summer days!   I am taking notes.  These outfits all look amazing to me.  Brilliant proportions and still your signature look.    Your Nine West sandals in 3 are stunning.  I think now I can start my summer wish list;)

  • Carole replied 10 years ago

    Wow, you are like a real life YLF model, love it all, and you have an enviable sandal collection, just fab!

  • Beth Ann replied 10 years ago

    Oh yes, thanks for posting these.  Seems to me, that you "elevate" these looks through beautiful, but practical footwear.  3 and 4 are my favorites.

  • Betti replied 10 years ago

    I love your casual looks, and you have a very good eye for footwear!

  • Classically Casual replied 10 years ago

    Wow, your photos feel like the essence of summer.  I especially love #4.  The necklace makes it special.

  • chewyspaghetti replied 10 years ago

    I like them all!

  • Lisa replied 10 years ago

    These are fun, casual looks for summer heat.  And I do the same thing with my shorts, I size up and then get the waist taken in.  This way, they are not as tight in the thighs on me.

  • Sara L. replied 10 years ago

    I love all these outfits!  The necklaces really elevate each outfit and you have great sandals.

  • ElleH replied 10 years ago

    I love every one!

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