A fashion editor has challenged the long-held belief that women should stop wearing shorts after a certain age, discovering that current trends offer versatile and flattering options for various occasions. The editor, who initially accepted advice that no one over 30 should wear shorts, found herself reconsidering this notion due to rising summer temperatures and observing stylish individuals over 40 sporting the garment.
She embarked on a mission to find suitable shorts for different settings, including the office, school runs, and holidays. Contrary to initial expectations, mid-thigh length shorts, which she assumed would be most flattering, proved to be the least successful. This led her to explore other styles.
Embracing New Trends
The Bermuda trend, characterized by longer and more tailored shorts, emerged as a successful category. These styles, such as Jaeger's tailored black pair, were found to be suitable for warm-weather work environments. The editor noted that details like fabric weight and an extra inch in length significantly impacted the silhouette and flattering qualities of shorts. Heavier fabrics offered a more flattering drape than softer, flimsier materials.
Conversely, some shorter styles were also deemed flattering and comfortable, though not office-appropriate. Essentiel Antwerp's paisley towelling shorts were highlighted as a fun option for casual outings like the school run, with their substantial fabric preventing a boxy appearance. M&S's striped shorts, at £24, were identified as a standout for holiday wardrobes due to their light, breathable cotton fabric, though deemed too casual for everyday wear in a city setting.
Style Guidance
The editor's findings suggest a correlation between length and fit: longer shorts can be more tailored, while shorter styles should be looser. She cautioned that tight and short combinations are rarely flattering.
Ultimately, the most significant realization was overcoming the arbitrary age-related restrictions on wearing shorts. The editor identified several pairs she felt comfortable wearing, including Jaeger's tailored black shorts for work, Essentiel Antwerp's towelling shorts for casual wear, and Boden's comfortable yet smart options. Sea-M's linen culotte-style shorts were praised as universally flattering, and Nobody's Child offered comfortable, stylish options with an elasticated waistband.