I'll admit it: for the longest time, I was completely skeptical about longer shorts. Then fashion proved me wrong. Bermuda shorts turned out to be far more stylish than I ever expected — and now I can't stop reaching for them.
The best part? Knee-length and mid-thigh styles don't ride up when you walk, so there's no constant tugging and adjusting. Even better, they work in situations where regular shorts would feel like too much.
Whether it's a day at the office, weekend errands, or an evening out with friends, here are 10 outfit ideas that will instantly level up your summer wardrobe.
Denim shorts with a knit vest
Crocheted and knitted vests are still going strong this year, and they look genius paired with a cooler denim Bermuda. You don't need anything underneath: worn as a top on its own, it's seriously chic, while the longer shorts keep the whole look perfectly balanced. Add a pair of slingback shoes for that fresh, of-the-moment feel.
A black-and-white combo
You simply can't go wrong with a monochrome pairing. Team a lighter pair of long shorts with a white tee and black accessories. That contrast instantly makes you look polished and put-together — even if you've styled it entirely from simple basics.
Tomboy vibes with a feminine twist
I love it when masculine and feminine styles meet. A looser, more boyish Bermuda is the perfect thing to soften with a scarf, a beautiful piece of jewelry, or a delicate, open sandal. To keep that contrast going, pair it with an oversized collared shirt.
If mixing menswear and womenswear intrigues you, you'll find plenty more inspiration in our style guides on effortless, borrowed-from-the-boys dressing.
The timeless white-shirt classic
An oversized white shirt with longer denim shorts is pure, finished style. Tuck the shirt halfway into the waistband, or leave it open over a simple tank — either way, it looks fantastic. Complete the look with ballet flats and a printed scarf.
An elegant office look
Who said you can't wear shorts to work? A crisp, pressed Bermuda with a lightweight blazer or an elegant top glides right through most workplace dress codes. Finish with a low kitten heel and a cool bag.
With a striped shirt and loafers
Pair your denim Bermuda with a loose striped shirt and lift the whole thing with the never-boring white socks and loafers combo. A bag and sunglasses that echo the shirt tie everything together beautifully.
Relaxed elegance
This is the outfit you can run errands in during the morning, sit down for coffee with the girls in the afternoon, and stay in for cocktails come evening. A classic twill Bermuda and a relaxed shirt is the ultimate wildcard. Black accessories dress it up, while a woven bag gives it that easy summer feel.
The classic pairing
Sometimes the simplest things are the best: a well-cut khaki Bermuda and a clean black or white top. The secret is all in the proportions and the right accessories — add a great belt or sunglasses and a feminine shoe, and the magic happens instantly.
French-girl chic
Bring a little Parisian mood into your everyday summer. A black one-shoulder top with longer navy shorts and a comfortable kitten heel or sandal radiates true timeless elegance.
An easy everyday look
When you just need to dash into town, or you're facing a full day of walking around, throw on a relaxed cotton tee and your favorite ballet flats or sneakers with your Bermuda. Because the shorts are longer, you'll look far more pulled-together than if you'd reached for plain jersey shorts. Have fun with color, too — this outfit really comes alive with a few pops of red.
Frequently asked questions
Are Bermuda shorts flattering to wear?
Yes — because they're longer than regular shorts, they create a more balanced, pulled-together silhouette. The key is in the proportions and choosing the right accessories.
Can you wear Bermuda shorts to the office?
Absolutely. A crisp, pressed Bermuda paired with a lightweight blazer or an elegant top and a low heel can easily meet most workplace dress codes.
What shoes go best with longer shorts?
It depends on the vibe: slingbacks and kitten heels dress them up, loafers with white socks add a chic edge, and ballet flats or sneakers keep things easy and casual.
How do I make a simple Bermuda outfit look more polished?
Focus on proportions and accessories. A great belt, sunglasses, a woven bag, or a feminine shoe can instantly elevate even the most basic top-and-shorts combo.
