White Culotte Shorts Are The Sleeper Hit of The Summer

On the cusp of jorts, bermudas, and every tailored short in between, a quieter trend is rising: the return of the white culotte short. Breezy, wide-legged, and cut just below the knee, they’re giving refined throwback energy and fashion people are taking note. Gwyneth Paltrow wore a crisp pair on holiday recently, styling them exactly how they’re meant to be worn: like you’re on the Italian riviera, Pinot Grigio in hand.

It makes sense. Fashion is deep in its recycle era. Think: T-bar sandals, printed trousers, even pedal pushers (yes, really). Culottes sit perfectly in that wave of comebacks, offering the nostalgia we love with a 2025 refresh. The new wave is sleeker and more structured - fitted linen, crisp cotton, and even denim versions that feel less ‘school uniform,’ more ‘quiet luxury’. There’s something satisfyingly grown-up about them. They float in that space between shorts and a skirt, making them an easy go-to when it’s too hot for trousers but you want something a little more elevated than cut-offs. And they’re flattering too.

Styling is simple: keep it clean and cool. Try a pair with ballet pumps and a white tee or lean into Euro summer energy with leather slides and a ribbed tank. Add a basket bag, and you’re practically on holiday, even if you’re just heading to brunch or the office.

You’ll spot them at garden parties, city lunches, and airport lounges alike. And if you're not wearing them already, you soon will be. Scroll down to shop the best white culottes of the season.

Shop: White Culotte Shorts

Renee Washington, Grazia's digital fashion and beauty writer, lives online. With a penchant for wispy lashes and streetwear, she writes about the worlds of fashion and beauty from the viewpoint of the modern fashion girlie..

Main Image credit: @lindasintonen @indyrodz @gwynethpaltrow @katawii @lindasintonen