Dressy Shorts That Will Make You Want to Cast Off Your Cutoffs

May 10, 2013

Hey Shortie, Ditch the Cutoffs and Don These Pretty Pairs Instead

Garden Party

Affordable, short, completely on-trend. What more do you want out of warm weather wardrobe fare? These will be as equally cute with flats as they are with heels.

$17.80 at Forever 21.
Vegan Summer

Leather isn't just for winter anymore. And this pair of shorts is vegan-friendly, which means no harm came to an animal in their production. And certainly no harm will come to your street style cred when you wear these out with your favorite chiffon blouse.

$69 at Piperlime.
Going Dotty

Sex appeal (as you well know) doesn't have to come from showing skin. These waist-cinching shorts are sophisticated without being risque in the slightest. They're cheeky because of their shape and fit, but appropriate for conservative occasions. Asos got these right.

$58.19 at ASOS.
Put a Bird On It

You might have asked yourself, is the bird motif overdone? I know I have. But I quickly decided overdone or not, it's still cute. Love these slouchy shorts and their feathered friend pattern.

$59.90 at Zara.
Lingerie Inspired

No bones about it, these are all about their ability to call to mind bedroom time. And with the right occasion, why not? I love these for their nighttime possibility, but even more for the brave girl who sports them during her Saturday run to CVS.

$113 at Shopbop.
Very Berry

I'm obsessed with hot pink. But I can't seem to pull the trigger when it comes to buying it. Something just feels too "cute" or too "young" about it. The Jacquard pattern and not too short or tight fit of these shorts gives them a more grown up vibe I can definitely get into.

$39.90 at Zara.
Sweet Scallops

Wear this with a fitted white tank. Perfection.

$35.99 at Need Supply.
Silk in Bloom

This is the type of bottom that you are so glad you purchased after you take it home. Not only is it beautiful and versatile, but it's a special statement piece you can wear for years. Definitely worth the slightly higher price than some other shorts on the market.

$53.20 at ASOS.

A contributing writer to theFashionSpot, Marisa has penned articles and features in over a dozen online and print publications. She's worked as fashion critic and creative director for papierdoll.com, been the managing editor for Caribbean-based Ocean Style Magazine, and worked with Set Magazine, a luxury lifestyle magazine based in Zurich, as a contributing editor. She splits her time between New York, Los Angeles and her hometown as a freelance fashion and cultural copywriter, editor and journalist. You can find out more at her site marisaswanson.com and follow her on Twitter @mraswan.