For most of us, wearing shorts brings back memories of falling over playing rounders on a field, or being stuck indoors playing dodgeball while it chucked it down outside. But it's also really HOT out, and no-one likes hot legs. So we've found the best eight ways to wear shorts this summer, without looking like you're off to a P.E lesson.
Try leather shorts
Leave your boring old denim shorts in your drawer and go for a leather pair instead. Just make sure you keep the rest of your outfit light, or things might get real sweaty, real fast.
Faux leather shorts, £29.99, Mango, Denim shirt, £31.18, Nasty Gal, Lace Up Heels, £30, Missguided
Monochrome always looks smart
These sassy Claudie Pierlot shorts give absolutely no nod to your school days. Even if you wear them with an actual P.E kit.
Shorts, £77.50, Claudie Pierlot, Polo T-Shirt, £14.90, Uniqlo, Trainers, £45, Superga
Add a jacket
If shorts leave you fearing the dreaded 'underbum', go for a pair with a long co-ordinating jacket, like this sleeveless duster from Lavish Alice.
Sleeveless Duster, £80, Lavish Alice, Shorts, £42, Lavish Alice, Vest, £6, River Island
Over-the-knee boots work surprisingly well
Over the knee boots are ideal if you only want to flash a bit of leg. Also handy if you just really can't be bothered to shave them. Two birds, ladies.
Tan Over The Knee Boot, £125, Office, Brown shorts, £22, Missguided, Blouse, £22.99, New Look
Add smart shoes
If shorts make you feel like you're in school again, forgo your tatty old trainers and go for socks and loafers instead. You'll look dead grown up.
Tassel Loafers, £27, Alice & You at Debenhams, Socks, £8, ASOS, Long Sleeve Stripe Top, £25, Boden
Mix different textures up
It's easy to go for all black when you're in doubt- keep it interesting by mixing up different textures like suede and linen.
Suede Fringe Jacket, £155, Urban Outfitters, Linen Shorts, £14.99, New Look, Sunglasses, £6, Boohoo
Khaki + leather = thumbs up
If you find shorts either too sporty or too girly, toughen up your look with some khaki and leather.
Khaki shorts, £34, Topshop, White Blouse, £79, La Redoute, Faux Leather Jacket, £39.99, Zara
Night time
Shorts are the winning option for nights out when you don't want to worry about having a Marilyn moment. Just add a massive necklace and some banging heels.
Skort, £15, Missguided, Statement Necklace, £32, Rock N Rose,
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This article originally appeared on The Debrief.