Denim shorts are a summer staple that every girl needs in her closet. They’re versatile, comfortable, and perfect for those hot summer days. But sometimes it can be a challenge to figure out how to style them in fresh ways.
If you’re looking for some new outfit ideas for what to wear with denim shorts this season, I’ve got you covered! In this post, I’m sharing 15 of the cutest denim shorts outfits that are easy to recreate. From casual looks to dressier ensembles, there’s an outfit here for every summer occasion.
Get ready for some major style inspo with these trendy jean shorts outfits!
How to Style Denim Shorts
1. Graphic Tee + Sweater Draped on Shoulders
For a laid-back yet put-together look, try pairing your high-waisted denim shorts with a graphic t-shirt and drape a sweater over your shoulders. This outfit is perfect for those slightly cooler summer days or evenings.
To complete the look, add some white-framed sunglasses for a touch of retro charm. A small handbag keeps things practical without overwhelming the outfit. Finish off with some brown loafer-style shoes for a preppy twist.
I love how this outfit balances casual and polished elements. The draped sweater adds an effortless sophistication to the classic tee and denim shorts combo.
2. Denim Crop Top + Denim Shorts
Don’t be afraid to go all-in with denim! A button-front denim crop top paired with distressed denim shorts creates a fun and cohesive summer look. This denim-on-denim outfit is a great way to embrace the Canadian tuxedo trend in a warm-weather appropriate way.
Keep the accessories simple with this bold look. A pair of white sneakers adds a sporty touch and keeps the outfit feeling fresh and youthful. This is definitely one of my favorite denim shorts outfits for a casual day out!
3. Breton Striped Tee + White Denim Shorts
For a classic summer look with a French Riviera feel, pair a navy striped long-sleeved top (also known as a Breton tee) with crisp white denim shorts. This combination is timeless and always looks chic.
Flip-flops are the perfect casual footwear choice for this outfit, making it ideal for a day at the beach or a relaxed lunch with friends. You might love trying this look for a seaside vacation or any time you want to channel those coastal vibes.
4. Colorful Top + Light Wash Denim Shorts
Summer is the perfect time to embrace bright colors and fun patterns. Try pairing light blue denim shorts with a vibrant patterned tank top or crop top with thin straps. This combination is playful and perfect for hot days.
Accessorize with a white netted or crocheted bag for a boho touch. Simple sandals keep the focus on the colorful top while still being practical for summer activities. I love how this outfit lets you express your personality through a bold top while the denim shorts keep it grounded.
5. Relaxed Shirt + Bermuda Shorts
For a more polished take on denim shorts outfits, try pairing high-waisted Bermuda shorts with a relaxed button-down shirt. This look is perfect for casual office environments or when you want to feel a bit more dressed up while staying cool.
Strappy sandals add a feminine touch to this otherwise boyish-inspired outfit. You can play with proportions by leaving the shirt untucked or doing a front-tuck for a more defined waistline.
6. Eyelet Ruffle Top + Distressed Denim Shorts
Combine the sweetness of a white eyelet top with the casual cool of distressed denim shorts for a perfect summer outfit. The ruffled short sleeves of the eyelet top add a romantic touch to the edgy shorts.
A brown leather belt helps to define the waist and ties the look together. Light-colored sandals keep the outfit feeling airy and summery. This is one of those denim shorts outfits that effortlessly balances feminine and casual elements.
7. Band Tee + Distressed Denim Shorts
For a fun twist on how to style denim shorts, try combining a band tee with light wash distressed denim shorts and ankle cowboy boots. This outfit has a great country-meets-rock ‘n’ roll vibe that’s perfect for summer concerts or festivals.
Top it off with a baseball cap to keep the sun out of your eyes and add to the casual, all-American feel. I love how this outfit mixes different style elements to create a unique and eye-catching look.
8. Bright Tank Top + Light Wash Denim Shorts
Sometimes, the simplest outfits make the biggest impact. Pair a bright tank top with light wash denim shorts for a vibrant summer look. This combination is perfect for hot days when you want to feel colorful and carefree.
Black sunglasses and sandals add a touch of contrast and keep the outfit from feeling too overwhelming. This is a great denim shorts outfit for a day of sightseeing or hanging out with friends.
9. Classic White Shirt + Denim Shorts
You can never go wrong with a crisp white button-down shirt paired with light wash denim shorts. This combination is timeless and versatile, suitable for a variety of summer occasions.
Accessorize with a small black crossbody bag for a touch of contrast. Beige ballet flats keep the look polished while still being comfortable for walking. This outfit is perfect when you’re wondering what to wear with denim shorts for a slightly dressier daytime event.
10. Loose Black Shirt + Light Wash Denim Shorts
For a sleek and sophisticated take on summer denim shorts outfits, try pairing a loose-fitting black button-down shirt with light wash denim shorts. This creates a stylish contrast between the dark top and light bottom.
Slide sandals keep the look casual and comfortable. This outfit is perfect for a summer evening out or when you want to feel put-together while staying cool.
11. Oversized Shirt Layered Over Denim Shorts
Create a stylish layered look by wearing a light beige oversized button-up shirt over a t-shirt and light blue denim cut-off shorts. This outfit is all about casual comfort with a touch of sophistication.
A brown belt adds definition to the waist, while white platform sandals give a bit of height and keep the look summery. Add a long necklace for a boho touch. I love how this outfit plays with proportions and layers while still feeling light and breezy.
12. Bright Tank + Kimono Cover-Up + Denim Shorts
For a bohemian-inspired summer look, pair a bright tank top (coral pink works great, but feel free to experiment with other colors!) with light blue denim cut-off shorts. Layer a floral kimono cover-up over the top for an extra pop of pattern and color.
White slide sandals keep the look casual and comfortable. This is one of those denim shorts outfits that’s perfect for a beach day or a casual summer party.
13. Striped Tank Top + Light Wash Denim Shorts
Combine a striped tank top with light wash denim shorts for a classic summer look with a nautical twist. This timeless combination never goes out of style and is perfect for a day by the sea or a casual lunch date.
Brown leather sandals add a touch of earthy contrast to the blue and white color scheme. You might love trying this outfit for a seaside vacation or any time you want to channel those coastal vibes.
14. Black Blazer + White Denim Shorts
For a more polished take on how to style denim shorts, try pairing white denim shorts with a black blazer. You can wear either a black or white top underneath, depending on your preference.
A thin black belt helps to define the waist, while oversized sunglasses add a touch of glamour. Black thong sandals keep the look summery while maintaining the sleek black and white color scheme. This outfit is perfect for a summer dinner date or a dressier daytime event.
15. Waistcoat + Distressed Shorts
For a unique and fashion-forward summer look, try pairing a white waistcoat with light wash denim cut-off shorts. This unexpected combination creates a stylish contrast between tailored and casual elements.
Black sandals and dark sunglasses add a touch of edge to the outfit, while a white tote bag keeps things practical. This is definitely one of the more daring denim shorts outfits, perfect for those who love to experiment with fashion.
And there you have it – 15 stylish summer denim shorts outfits to inspire your warm-weather wardrobe! Whether you prefer casual and relaxed looks or more polished ensembles, there’s a denim shorts outfit here for every style and occasion.
With these outfit ideas, you’ll never be stuck wondering what to wear with denim shorts again. So go ahead, embrace the versatility of this summer staple and create some amazing outfits of your own!