May 4, 2023
Not all middle age women are comfortable in shorts, and that’s perfectly o.k. But if you want to wear them, there’s no rule or reason you can’t. Here’s how to pull off shorts over 40 or 50 and feel good about it.
1. Choose a Flattering Length
How short is too short when you’re middle-aged or more? Determining the best length is always tricky, but it boils down to your figure, where you plan to wear your shorts, and your confidence level. There are basic lengths:
- Short Shorts are most flattering on toned legs. Aim for short shorts with an inseam minimum of 4″ -5″. Anything faster will look skimpy and unflattering on a grown-up gal.
- Medium Length Shorts are popular with women 40,50+. Medium-length shorts have a 5-10″ inseam and are several inches above the knee.
- Long Shorts: Classic Bermuda shorts end at the top of the knee AND are a great choice if your legs are not as firm as they used to be or you need a pair of more formal shorts. Bermuda shorts usually have an inseam of about 11 inches.
Tip: Try this trick if you’re still unsure what length to wear. While standing up, lay your arms down by your sides. Where do your fingertips end? That’s usually a comfortable minimum length for wearing shorts for most women.
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2. Consider Sizing Up
To fit right, shorts shouldn’t be tight in the thighs, bum, and crotch. If the shorts have side pockets, they should lie flat, not flare out at the hips. Sometimes, it helps to go up one size in shorts, mainly white shorts, which tend to show everything.
As for the leg opening size, if it is too broad, your legs will look skinny, and the shorts will look baggy, giving you a frumpy look. If the leg opening is too snug, you will look squished into those shorts, which look desperate. Experiment to find that middle ground.
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3. Wear Tailored Shorts
Wear shorts with the structure if you want to look more sophisticated. Shorts that are slightly more tailored and less flimsy will help give your softer, rounder 40+ body an excellent shape and make you look more polished and chic. For example, flat-front walking and Bermuda shorts are more tailored and trending. Even a pair of crisp paper bag waist pants can have a more polished look.
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4. Don’t Wear Skimpy Tops with Your Shorts
You want to look classy, not trashy! If you reveal many legs, cover up more above the waist. A skimpy or very fitted top worn with short shorts looks tacky after a certain age. Balance your look.
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shorts | top
5. Create a Style Theme
A mish-mash look doesn’t help you look chic in shorts. Try to coordinate the colors and the mood of your shorts outfit, or pick a theme to build on to look pulled together. For example, give your outfit a natural woven vibe by wearing this linen, straw, rope shorts outfit above. More great shorts-style themes here.
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6. Layer the Third Piece
Never underestimate the power of the third piece to dress up anything, including shorts. I like to wear long black shorts with a bright linen jacket. You can also wear a denim jacket, cardigan, or third layering piece to add polish and maturity.
7. Wear Flats or Low Heels
Flats are perfect with shorts. A low to medium wedge or block heel is about as high as you want to go without looking like you’re in a beauty pageant.
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8. Add Classy Accessories to Dress-Up Shorts
Shorts and rubber flip-flops + not much else look plain and junior. Add fab jewelry, a great tote, and cute sandals to create a grown-up ensemble.
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9. Uplevel Shorts with Good Grooming
Well-groomed hair and some makeup help dress up shorts and take you from average to excellent.
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10. Swear Off Daisy Dukes
Cut-off jeans shorts with frayed hems are just too short and junior for a mature woman. Don’t even go there. The best denim shorts for women are
- Dark wash denim- dressier and more slimming.
- Chambray is modern but looks more relaxed.
- Jean shorts with no or minimum rips or whiskering
The bottom line is that shorts for women over 40 look great when you put a little effort and thought into your overall look! For more ideas on how to wear shorts, check these tips for Cute and Classy Ways to Style Shorts.
