While thigh's-the limit micro-skirts dominated 2022 thanks to Miu Miu, there's another type of 'micro' that's taking over this year's trends. The short shorts. While micro shorts are celebrities' current obsession, you might be thinking: how can I actually walk out the door in a pair of seemingly microscopic shorts? As luck has it, there are countless ways to wear micro-shorts, even if you don't fall within the A-list category.
Micro shorts are, of course, a throwback to the hot pants of the 1970s, except much cooler. The short short, which barely extends beyond the upper thigh, has emerged on the spring/summer runways of Gucci, Prada and Marc Jacobs, signalling a shift from baggy shorts, to something a little more... snug. They can be denim, cotton or even leather if you're feeling particularly bold, but regardless of their material, there's one, crucial, entry requirement - super short.
If you're already thinking: how on earth do I style these might-as-well-be-underwear shorts in a way that deems them acceptable in which to leave the house? Short answer - It's all about balance. Pairing your ultra-short shorts with a more oversized silhouette, such as a baggy tee, shirt or blazer will help maintain a sense of equilibrium and help make you feel slightly more confident as you leave the house. For a more everyday look, an oversized sweater or rugby shirt, paired with sneakers, can also help create balance and longer, baggier outerwear such as a long trench or a boxy bomber will help further neutralise your micro shorts.
Lily-Rose Depp was spotted in a pair of these just last week, styling them with a white shirred shirt buttoned up to the top, as well as a Chanel bag and heels. For an easy daytime look, back in February Emily Ratajkowski matched her teeny tiny micro shorts with a black longline top that features a full zip. In her very much 'sporty-chic' attire she paired the black ensemble with a striking red Puma trainer, very fittingly to attend a Puma show in NYC.
Our personal favourite styling of the micro short, however, has got to go to Sydney Sweeney. Perfect for an evening out, Sweeney wore a pair of sequinned micro shorts with a floaty greige blouse and an oversized blazer metallic blazer with exaggerated shoulders. Finished with the knee-high mesh stockings and rounded black sunglasses, this look is easy to replicate once you've got your hands on your own pair of micro shorts.
Either way, dressed up or dressed down, micro shorts are your ticket to an unapologetically bold summer outfit. Don't play it safe this summer – here are the best micro shorts to shop right now.
Shop: The Best Micro Shorts
Mangoclick.linksynergy.com
You can't get more retro than a pair of micro shorts that are embroidered with a cheery cherry print. The belt detailing makes them great for pairing with a crop baby tee, or a strappy cami top and a pair of wellies for a festival look.
FRAMEframe-store.com
The FRAME shorts are as mini as they come, with an inseam of two-inches. Featuring a flattering high-rise design, these shorts are small but mighty, thanks to the statement white seams and dark wash denim. In fact, they're very similar to a pair of micro shorts that were spotted on Lily-Rose Depp.
Dieseluk.diesel.com
These shorts take us back to the 2000s. With their mega short style and hot pant-esque silhouette you can almost envision someone wearing these shorts in the back of a Nelly Furtado music video. They're also available in this washed black colour, which makes a nice change from blue.
Monkiwww.monki.com
Another great pair of denim micro shorts are this option from Monki. Available in four different colours; beige, black, pink, and white, the shorts have a low-waist and are made from a breathable twill fabric.
Bershkawww.bershka.com
Another pair of white micro shorts sneak onto our list, except this time they feature this stunning textured design. They can be easily paired with a long sleeve top tucked in, or a crop baby tee and oversized leather jacket, in true Hailey Bieber style.
River Islandwww.riverisland.com
For a pair of micro shorts you can wear on a night out, these are the perfect pair to take dancing. The sequin shorts can be dressed up with a funky blouse and heels, but can also be dressed down with a T-shirt and chunky sandals.
Farfetchwww.farfetch.com
You can never go wrong with a pop of red, and these Prada shorts certainly demand attention. With a mid-rise waist, concealed fastening and handy belt loops for when you want to accessorise, these shorts are the perfect pair of tailored micro shorts.
How can I style micro shorts to avoid looking too revealing?
Styling micro shorts is all about balance. We suggest pairing your short shorts with more conservative tops. A flowy blouse or an oversized tee can create a chic contrast, and for a more polished look, a tailored blazer can add sophistication. Footwear also plays a crucial role—think sneakers for a laid-back style or ankle boots for an edgy touch.
Gemma Lavers is a Fashion Writer at Bauer Media, writing for brands like Grazia, heat and Closer. Gemma specialises in all things clothing and enjoys outfit planning (especially for holidays), scrolling social media for the next trend and shopping (probably for a new coat).