OK, so maybe we’re not in the middle of a heatwave, and maybe we’re counting ourselves lucky to get two days in a row without rain. But, just because we’re experiencing a typical British summer (and just because travel abroad is complicated at the moment) that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy showing off our holiday wardrobes.
It might not be cracking the flags, but warm temperatures can make it uncomfortable to wear jeans or other full-length trousers, particularly if your office isn’t air conditioned. But, if you’re not a fan of summer dresses, there is a work-smart alternative to trousers, jeans or chinos.
The Bermuda Short.
What? We hear you say, are Bermuda shorts in style?! Yes Ladies, Bermuda shorts are now back in fashion and arguably better than ever.
Also known as dress shorts, Bermuda shorts are a style of ‘short trouser’, originally worn by men but are now a popular choice for a gender neutral summer fashion statement. They are defined as a garment which falls around 1 inch above the knee, and can have a straight or turned-up hem.
They are a popular ‘smart casual’ choice for summer work wear as the length makes them suitable for a more formal environment. Typically found in neutral tones, white, black or navy, in recent years Bermuda shorts have been updated with brighter colours, patterns and prints .
The variety of denim Bermuda shorts are perfect for all year round and the cotton versions are a truly flexible piece that can be styled in many different ways to create alternative looks.
Read on for 5 ways to incorporate Bermuda shorts into your wardrobe this summer.
How to wear Bermuda shorts?
Short and smart: If you’re looking to keep things as smart as possible, then opting for tailored Bermuda shorts with a matching or contrasting blazer can create a stylish outfit. If you’re heading to a more formal event but dresses aren’t your style, you can add a more modern twist with a smart top and wedges for a party vibe.
Business at the bottom: For a more professional finish, team with a collared shirt or blouse up top and a loafer on your feet.
Put on your party pants: If you’re planning an outfit that can do office-to-afterwork drinks, swap your loafers for chic white trainers or pumps for a relaxed summer vibe.Dare to double up
Denim Bermuda shorts are one of the most popular options as they offer an intermediate style that slots in between skinny jeans and short-shorts. You don’t just have to don the denim on your bottom half.
Double-denim looks are back in for this season, with light washes proving extremely popular during warmer months. However, if you aren’t bold enough to mix and match your denims, you can give any style of Bermuda short a hint of casual cool by teaming them with a denim shirt or jacket up top.
Be bold with Bermuda
Traditionally, Bermuda shorts have a low-key, chic and subtle style which makes them ideal options for summer office wear. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t use them as a neutral base from which to create an outfit that represents your personality.
Make a contrasting statement with a bright coloured Bermuda shorts on the bottom and embrace an eye-catching floral or quirky print shirt on top. From bold exotic designs to more traditional stripes or spots, there’s a pattern out there for everyone.
Layer all year round
It can be difficult to know what the weather is going to do from one hour to the next sometimes, so that charming summer outfit you left the house in this morning in bright sunshine might not seem like the wisest choice when the temperature drops as you relax in a pub garden.
The great thing about Bermuda shorts is that they offer more length coverage down the leg, meaning that although they help to keep you cool in the heat, they’ll also help you stay warmer in the evening than more high-legged short designs.
These beige Bermuda shorts share a their tailored style so they look great with long-sleeved shirts, jumpers or knits. You can mix and match your seasonal knitwear and create a chic, elegant look that will take you from day to night with heels - whatever the weather throws at you.
Co-ord with colours
Summer is a great time to be bold. Whether you live for a bright hue or you’re a nervous novice, with all the patterns, prints and pantones out there during the warmer months. When it comes to colour you can make a huge splash or dip your toe in.
If you’re finding it hard to break out of your winter uniform of dark or monochrome styles, then starting with one statement colourful piece can be a great way to ease yourself in. From bright earrings to patterned blouses, Bermuda shorts are flexible enough to work with almost any colour or style.
Bolder dressers will love the colour block or tone-on-tone looks you can create using an elegant tailored style. Choose shorts and a blazer in the same colour spectrum for an ultra-chic ombre effect as seen in this satin dusty pink set that screams 50's chic.
The bottom line: The beauty of Bermuda shorts as a summer fashion icon is that they can be styled in so many different ways. You can use them with openwork blouses and heels for a more feminine silhouette, or team them with linen shirts and deck shoes for a play on a more masculine style.
The possibilities are endless, making them a popular item for androgynous style and a true summer wardrobe staple. How will you wear your Bermuda shorts?
