Shorts are the most comfortable thing to wear in an Indian summer, but most of us only think of them for the gym, the house or the beach. With the right cut, fabric and top, shorts can look smart enough for a weekend brunch, a holiday dinner in Goa or a casual date. The difference between “running errands” and “dressed up” is mostly in the details.
This guide covers which shorts are easiest to dress up, what to pair them with, how to think about where you’re going, and the makeup that keeps the look fresh in the heat.
Short on time?
- Tailored, linen, high-waisted and satin or leather-look shorts are the easiest to dress up.
- Balance a short hem with a more covered or structured top: a blouse, a shirt or a blazer.
- Swap flip-flops for block heels, mules, loafers or embellished sandals.
- Check the dress code of where you’re going. Shorts suit brunches and holidays more than religious sites or formal events.
- Sunscreen your legs too, and keep eye makeup light with a single shimmer shade.
Which shorts are easiest to dress up
Tailored shorts
Shorts with a pressed crease, a waistband and a clean hem look like trousers that happen to be shorter. They’re the most versatile option and can even work with a blazer.
High-waisted linen or cotton shorts
Breathable and polished, they’re perfect for humid cities. A paper-bag waist with a self-tie belt looks especially smart.
Satin or silky shorts
A slight sheen reads as evening-ready. Pair with a simple top to keep it from looking like loungewear.
Denim shorts
The most casual of the lot, but a clean, dark wash with an unfrayed hem can be dressed up nicely. Distressed cut-offs are harder to make look formal.
Leather-look shorts
Great for winter evenings in milder cities or a December holiday, paired with tights or a knit.
If you love white shorts in particular, see our guide to styling white summer shorts.
Getting the fit right
- A high waist elongates the legs and makes tucking in tops easy.
- A slightly longer inseam often looks more polished than a very short one, especially for daytime.
- Wider legs feel cooler in the heat; slimmer cuts look sleeker with heels.
- Make sure the shorts sit comfortably when you sit down, which is when a bad fit shows most.
What to pair with shorts
The easiest way to dress up shorts is to balance the shorter hem with a top that’s a little more covered or structured.
- A flowy blouse: puff sleeves, a ruffled neckline or a soft print, tucked in at the front.
- A crisp shirt: white or striped, sleeves rolled, tucked or knotted at the waist.
- A blazer: a linen blazer over a camisole with tailored shorts is a modern smart-casual outfit.
- A fitted knit or bodysuit: clean and simple, especially with high-waisted shorts.
- A short kurti: a cotton kurti over tailored shorts makes a relaxed Indo-western holiday look.
- A matching co-ord: a shorts set in the same fabric looks put together with almost no effort.
Shoes and accessories
- Shoes: block heels, mules, espadrilles, loafers, embellished flat sandals or clean white sneakers. Leave the flip-flops for the pool.
- Bag: a structured mini bag, straw tote or clutch, depending on the time of day.
- Jewellery: gold hoops, a layered necklace or statement earrings.
- Belt: a slim belt makes even casual shorts look more finished.
- Sunglasses: a statement pair does a lot of the work. Our guide on dressing up an outfit with accessories has more ideas.
Know where you’re going
Shorts are widely worn at cafés, malls, beach towns and on holidays in India, but comfort levels and dress codes vary a lot by city, venue and family. Places of worship, some heritage sites, formal restaurants and traditional family events often expect covered legs. When you’re unsure, carry a long skirt or a light sarong, or simply choose a midi dress instead.
Outfit ideas
Weekend brunch
White linen shorts, a pastel puff-sleeve blouse, tan mules, a straw bag and gold hoops.
Holiday dinner in Goa
Satin shorts in a jewel tone, a simple camisole, a light shirt worn open as a layer, strappy sandals and statement earrings.
Casual date
Tailored black shorts, a fitted knit top, block heels and a small crossbody bag.
Winter evening
Leather-look shorts, sheer black tights, a chunky knit and ankle boots.
Sun protection for your legs
Shorts mean more skin in the sun. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends applying a broad-spectrum, water-resistant SPF 30 or higher to all skin not covered by clothing, including the legs and tops of the feet, about 15 minutes before going out, and reapplying every two hours outdoors or after sweating.
Makeup to wear with shorts
Shorts outfits are usually daytime and warm-weather, so keep the makeup light and sweat-friendly.
- Start with sunscreen and a light, oil-free base, or skip foundation entirely.
- Tap a single peach eyeshadow across the lid with your finger. It warms up the eyes and looks fresh in daylight.
- Add a thin line of brown kajal on the upper lash line and one coat of mascara.
- Finish with a tinted lip balm or a coral lip.
- For dinner, add a touch of shimmer to the centre of the lid and a slightly sharper liner.
Heading to the beach? Our beach-proof makeup guide has tips for heat and humidity, and our travel makeup bag guide helps you pack light.
FAQ
Can I wear shorts to a brunch or dinner?
Yes, at most casual and smart-casual venues. Choose tailored, linen or satin shorts, pair them with a nicer top and swap flip-flops for heels, mules or embellished sandals.
What top goes best with dressy shorts?
A flowy blouse, a crisp shirt, a fitted knit or a light blazer. A slightly more covered or structured top balances the shorter hem.
What length of shorts looks most polished?
A mid-length or slightly longer inseam with a high waist usually looks smartest, especially for daytime events.
What eye makeup goes with a shorts outfit?
Keep it light: one peach, rose or bronze shade on the lid, a thin liner and mascara. Add shimmer if you’re heading out in the evening.