Striped shorts surge: your summer style upgrade is here
Forget denim cut-offs – there's a new bottom in town, and it's making waves faster than a coastal breeze. Striped shorts are the unexpected trend dominating wardrobes and feeds alike, signaling a shift away from predictable summer staples towards something a bit more playful, a bit more…considered.
The rise of the patterned short
We've seen stripes pop up on shorts silhouettes before, but this summer’s iteration is decidedly more directional. Think shorter lengths, closer fits, and a decidedly modern sensibility. The key isn't just the stripes themselves, but how they're styled: paired with classic white tees for effortless cool, oversized button-downs for a borrowed-from-the-boys vibe, or even layered with contrasting stripes for a maximalist statement. The versatility is genuinely remarkable.
But navigating trends can be tricky. We all have that spectrum – the pieces we admire from afar, the styles we’re cautiously optimistic about, and the absolute must-haves that trigger an immediate online shopping spree. Striped shorts, for many, are firmly landing in that last category.
Next's Multi Stripe Knitlook Shorts, at £26, have quickly become the frontrunner in this burgeoning trend. They strike a perfect balance – short but not micro, with a flattering high-rise waistband and a comfortable, stretchy knit fabric that feels fantastic against the skin. The multi-color striped design ensures you're absolutely on point.
The beauty of these shorts lies in their adaptability. A coordinating halter-neck top creates a streamlined, chic look perfect for lounging or brunch. Or, for something more casual, pair them with an oversized white tee or a simple tank, elevated with statement accessories and a kitten heel. The potential for styling is practically limitless.
Beyond next: the best striped shorts on the market
While Next offers a compelling entry point, the options don't stop there. Reformation's Darla Cotton Micro Short (£168) provides a bolder, more statement-making option, while Adanola's Knit Stripe Shorts (£38) offer a more relaxed, everyday feel. Nobody's Child's Red Striped Fine Knit Shorts (now 59% off at £20) are a steal, and UO's Faye Foldover Mini Shorts (£29) bring a touch of vintage flair. Even Free People's Sassafras Sweater Set (£29.95) and Frankies Bikinis x JENNIE Sophie Mini Shorts (£115) offer unique takes on the trend, showcasing its widespread appeal.
The surge in popularity isn’t arbitrary. It reflects a broader cultural appetite for joy, for self-expression, and for a touch of unexpected playfulness in our wardrobes. After seasons dominated by quiet luxury and understated minimalism, the unapologetic vibrancy of striped shorts feels refreshingly current.
The numbers don’t lie: searches for “striped shorts” are up 287% in the last month alone, according to Google Trends. This isn't a fleeting fad—it’s a full-blown moment. So, consider this your official invitation to embrace the stripe.