By Mari Sato
Over the past year, we have seen the rise of hot pants, with many brands drawing inspiration from Miu Miu’s Spring 2023 Paris Fashion Week collection, and crafting their own interpretations of the trend. Micro-shorts made their debut in mainstream fashion largely stemming from Free People’s summer shorts collection, which quickly received a storm of controversy. Many users promptly commented their thoughts on the shorts, one user calling them “denim diapers…” and another saying, “This ain’t Texas. These won’t hold ’em.” Despite the hilarious comment section, these shorts are now entirely sold out in certain colors and styles. All jokes aside, these shorts have me torn.
I will forever be a jorts fan; I love the oversized silhouette, and the comfort can’t be beaten. However, models such as Kendall Jenner, Hailey Beiber, and, of course, Bella Hadid have proven that these tiny shorts can be pulled off. Regardless of this, the dramatic cut of these shorts and the stigma of who wears them could undoubtedly limit their inclusivity within mainstream fashion. Not to mention, tight shorts with no pockets pose challenges in both practicality and comfort.
Nevertheless, I am intrigued. I could see this trend flourishing as a going-out look, adjacent to the mini skirt, or as a stylish way to cover up at the beach. Admittedly, styling this garment seems like a near-impossible task; however, after a few hours on Pinterest, I have noticed common styling approaches that make the daunting short feel more manageable.
Kitten Heels + Blouse
When it comes to creating an elevated look with micro shorts, the simple pairing of kitten heels and a nice blouse provides a chic twist. A long-sleeved, flowy blouse or button-down will help soften the overall silhouette, making your outfit versatile for a variety of occasions. I love this idea for a night out as I often wear shorts underneath my skirts for more secure coverage. This simple outfit can offer the same fashionable look while remaining secure.
Boots + Baby Tee
For the more casual daytime look to rock your micro shorts, try styling them with a baby tee and some chunky boots. Cowboy and biker boots have been among the most popular choices for achieving this look. The laid-back style exudes effortlessness while being undeniably cool, making the combination perfect for any country or rock festival you may be going to this summer.
Belts on Belts
The girls are pairing micro shorts with belts. This is an absolute must to elevate your outfit and a great way to add more dimension to your look. Many people indulging in the trend have styled these shorts while wearing multiple belts at one time. Mixing chunky buckles, thick straps, and delicate chains, the shorts can act as a canvas to show off your favorite accessories.
