Forget the itty bitty cut offs, bermuda shorts are all the rage right now and we’re here for it. Characterised by the length and tailored look, think of them as a structured pair of slacks that have been cut above or at the knee. They’re a far cry from the booty shorts or the ultra-baggy jorts from seasons past.
Seen in more polished styles with a tell-tale front pleat, in linen fabrications or more structured wool and denim, the ladies bermuda shorts come in so many different styles to suit all different body shapes. From giving you instant cool-girl status to maximum comfortability, here’s why we’ll be donning a pair (or three) all summer long – plus our top picks for our favourite women’s bermuda shorts styles.
RELATED: From baby tees to relaxed fits: we found the best white t-shirts
5 reasons why we’re loving bermuda shorts
1. They are actually super comfortable
The beauty of a pair of classic bermuda shorts is just how comfortable they are to wear. They’ll often come in a zip and clasp closure, elastic waistband or even a drawstring for total ease. These shorts are slouchy with a relaxed fit down the thigh and leg, and come in fabrics that don’t rub or pull such as cotton, linen, denim and wool.
2. They’re effortlessly chic
Just like the same feeling you get from wearing a really good pair of tailored pants, bermuda shorts offer that same cool girl vibe with minimal effort, just in a shorter length. Spotted on the likes of Jennifer Lawrence, the Hadid sisters, Regina King, Suki Waterhouse, Sadie Sink and more, you’re in good company when you step out in a pair of these.
3. You can dress them up or down
Coming back into the office? Opt for tailored bermuda shorts. Running errands on the weekend? Throw on your favourite pair of sneakers. Have an important meeting? Pair your bermudas with some heels. I think you get where we’re going with this. It’s super simple to dress your shorts up or down with whatever look you’re going for.
4. They come in so many different colours and styles
Pleat or no pleat. Drawstring or zipper. At the knee or above the knee… Bermuda shorts don’t follow strict guidelines which has meant designers have taken the classic shape and ran with it. You’ll find them in so many fabrications, cuts, colours and styles that you’re bound to find something you love.
5. They suit all different body shapes
Because bermuda shorts can vary in shape, size and fit, it means they weren’t designed to fit just one type of body. Embrace the fluid form of the bermuda and look for styles that flatter your shape – think a longer fit for pear bodies, low rise for a slimmer figure or front pleats for an hourglass.
At its core, Stockholm style is all about being casual and relaxed. So instead, opt for linen pants with elastic waistbands, ribbed tank tops, knit polos and easy cardigans that can be tossed over your shoulders when the weather gets warmer or thrown on in the cooler evenings.
What is the difference between capris and bermuda shorts?
The main difference between capris and bermuda shorts is the length. Bermuda shorts will hit around the knee or sometimes a touch higher, while capris fall somewhere between the knee and the ankle. Capris can also be a slimmer fit, sitting closer to the thigh and calf compared to bermuda’s more relaxed wear.
How do you style them?
Bermuda shorts can be styled in so many different ways. Go for a sophisticated look with a fitted vest and a pair of kitten heels or do the complete opposite and go ultra comfy with an oversized boyfriend tee with baggy linen bermuda shorts. This summer, you’ll see us out in a pair of denim bermudas with a crisp white button up, and low-rise tailored shorts with a slinky little cami.
Where to buy bermuda shorts
There are so many brands and retailers offering their take on the trending bermuda shorts. From the affordable to the more high-end scale, look for them online and in-stores. Here are some of our favourites:
Women’s Health may earn commission from the links on this page, but we only feature products we believe in.
