While denim shorts remain a summer classic, finding a pair that feels truly elevated and put-together has always been something of a challenge. Bermuda shorts (otherwise known as jorts) have long offered a more grown-up alternative, but for 2025, it’s satin shorts that are taking over my feed. Styled with suede blazers and boots in the cooler months, and later paired with slinky camis or graphic tees as the weather warms up, there’s something inherently luxe about satin, and when reimagined in short form, it feels like a natural and effortlessly chic fit for summer.
It's worth noting that the satin trend hasn't come from nowhere. In fact, it began with Sleeper's sets that had the fashion crowd wearing what essentially was their pyjamas to brunch, and has since evolved into a legitimate day-to-evening uniform with just a change of shoes. That same relaxed sensibility has trickled down to something shorter for summer - et voila, the satin short is trending. Designers embraced it in different ways; Toteme embroidered its shorts with monochrome logos and bold colours, meanwhile, both Róhe and DÔEN took a softer approach with off-white shades, elasticated waists and lace trimmings. Unfortunatley, the latter two are now sold out.
Saying that, if you're not inclined to spend three figures on what is essentially the bottom half of a pyjama set, the high street has, thankfully, caught on too. H&M has a pair of slinky Silk-Blend Satin Shorts in a glorious pearly white shade that will go with everything you already have in your wardrobe, as well as & Other Stories. Zara is also home to some great pairs of chic satin shorts.
Satin shorts look best when styled with either a matching shirt and statement gold jewellery, or with something crisp and boxy - an oversized shirt or black blazer, for example. Chunky sandals will toughen up the otherwise feminine ensemble, so opt for a trending fisherman style or classic Birkenstock. When the temperature drops in the evening, throw a knitted jumper over your shoulders and add a pair of ballet flats or mules (I've got my eye on a Gucci pair) to finish the outfit.
In many ways, satin shorts feel like the natural evolution to our warm weather wardrobes, especially when you consider the satin trouser trend that dominated our Instagram feeds in spring. Denim shorts may serve a purpose, but satin shorts are great for transitioning between AM and PM and feel slightly more intentional. From Toteme and Róhe, to H&M and Abercrombie, shop our edit of the best satin shorts to invest in this summer below.
Shop: The Best Satin Shorts 2025
H&M www2.hm.com
If you're looking to the high street for a pair of satin shorts, H&M has a pair that is made from a cool mulberry silk and viscose blend. The shorts also have a drawstring waist that's super comfortable for tucking graphic tees and button-down shirts into.
Zarawww.zara.com
Slightly shorter for a flirty fit, these Zara satin shorts are a cool, affordable alternative to other more expensive options on the sartorial market. Pair with the matching brown Satin Piping Top if you like, or wear with more casual staples such as boxy white t shirts and racer back ribbed vests.
Reformationwww.thereformation.com
A-list favourite Reformation stocks a seriously chic pair of satin shorts – the Tiffle Satin Short. While they may be designed in a relaxed fit, these shorts are anything but casual, and can be dressed up with a chic waistcoat and a pair of chic kitten heels.
ASOS
These chic black shorts from ASOS look far more expensive than their humble price tag actually suggest. The best part? They are part of a chic, one and done set, and pair effortlessly with the matching satin shirt feauring a sleek revere collar.
Reiss www.reiss.com
If you don't want a pair of satin shorts that are super light in colour, Reiss' pair come in a more versatile black, and are more likely to withstand grass and wine stains. They cinch at the waist with a handy drawstring and are relaxed towards the bottom so the shorts drape beautifully.
& Other Storieswww.stories.com
Another pair of silky chocolate brown satin shorts - also available in light sage green and bold hot pink. They're incredibly comfortable thanks to a relaxed silhouete and high rise waist band, and wear especially well with ruffled blouses and pretty white shirts to really make each colour pop.
Net-A-Porterwww.net-a-porter.com
Toteme's take on the silk shorts are - as you can imagine - inherently chic. Patterned with an enlarged version of the iconic Toteme monogram, the shorts are made from a soft silk-twill that's comfortable to head to the beach in, and then to dinner (paired with kitten heels) afterwards.
Free People www.freepeople.com
These Free People shorts are simply fantanstic. Made with a pretty floaty hemline that gives the shorts a relaxed feel, style with a similarly boho-inspired ruched top and biker boots for the ultimate festival look.
Ganni www.ganni.com
Ganni's satin shorts are slightly more feminine than others on the list, with its ditsy yellow floral print that's juxtaposed with black lace trimming. Almost in a boxer style short, the waistband is elasticated and finished with Ganni branding.
Main image credit: Instagram/@glameramo @mihaelavlkvv and @under.thestyle
Gemma Lavers is a fashion commerce writer at Grazia, where she tracks down viral pieces and is as comfortable navigating the M&S new-in page as she is dissecting the latest celebrity look. When not writing, shopping or at Reformer Pilates (a cliché but she's hooked), Gemma will likely be planning her next holiday (and what she's going to wear). For a glimpse into said travels, outfit inspo and life as a journalist, follow her on Instagram or TikTok.