Shorts Styles Perfect For Older Women To Beat The Heat In

As summer approaches, everyone looks for their signature style and which wardrobe pieces will best suit the season. For many older women, it can be difficult to find garments that are comfortable, stylish, and age-appropriate all in one. Depending on your body type, you may even shy away from wearing shorts altogether to avoid chafing or because they're too form-fitting for your comfort. But we're not letting chafing ruin our summer. Some women turn to shorts with a three- to five-inch inseam to beat the heat, while others emphasize not caring what other people think and wearing what's most comfortable for them. 

One user commented on a Reddit thread for women over 40 discussing which shorts were 'appropriate', saying, "Wear whatever you're comfortable in or whatever makes you feel confident! I don't wear shorts often, I normally wear skirts and dresses when it's hot. But when the occasion calls for shorts, a 4" inseam is the length that I think looks and feels best on my body." Ageism in fashion is nothing new, but people's responses to it in recent years have reminded us that comfort and confidence should be at the forefront of fashion trends that are perfect for older women.

Ditch your jean shorts this summer for a trendy alternative, like Bermuda shorts. This style has a unique design, and typically provides more leg room and a boxier shape. They also usually fall between one and two inches above the knee, which can be great for those looking for a more modest short style that still offers plenty of airflow. 

Whether you opt for a looser fit on long days full of running errands, or a more tailored fit for an upscale look, they can be your summer hack for staying cool in style. Beyond the five Bermuda short looks that are far from frumpy, Bermuda shorts are an excellent choice for an older woman's closet. The style allows for more breathing room in the thigh and groin area, and opens up leg room for mobility. Best of all, the shorts' length can also help avoid chafing.

Biker shorts are widely beloved because of how versatile they are. While many wear these shorts on outings to the gym, others have found them to be a useful styling hack on days when comfort is the priority. Whether styled with an oversized T-shirt or a blazer, biker shorts are versatile and perfect for any occasion. People have grown to love these shorts so much that there are Reddit threads for brand recommendations that don't ride up and accommodate plus-size women.

Biker shorts can also be worn underneath clothing as shapewear, to make for a smoother look in thinner fabrics. For those looking for more of a modest feel while wearing shorts, they should look for biker shorts that have a seven- to nine-inch inseam. This allows for the shorts to sit right above the knee while still offering supportive compression on the legs, which is helpful for circulation and vascular health.

Finding a good tailor is one of the ways to stay chic in your 60s and beyond, and it can be especially useful during the summer months whenever you reach for a pair of paperbag shorts. Gathered at the waist to emulate a paperbag bunched at the top, it's important to ensure that the fit has just the right amount of cinch to your waist without being too tight, while also falling at a comfortable length. This may require the help of a tailor to determine the proper shape and length to help you feel most confident.

Paperbag shorts are also meant to cover up the midsection, which could make the wearer feel more confident if that's an area of the body they're looking to conceal. With the shorts being on the roomier side, this allows wearers to move more freely and not feel constricted by the fabric or cut. To enhance an outfit centered around paperbag shorts, shirts should be tucked in, or not sit over top of the shorts to show off the cinched-waist feature. If you're looking to dress them up, you can pair the shorts with a button-up blouse or a scoop-neck tank top and a modern kitten heel.

For those who crave a bit more ease, knit shorts may be the way to go this summer. Despite the wintry associations knitwear carries, knit shorts can actually be more cooling than insulating. The breathable quality of knit shorts is unmatched because the way they're crafted can generate its own airflow. Knit shorts can often be found in two or three-piece sets, making for easy styling on the days when you have to get ready quickly, but want to feel confident.

These shorts are also usually without a zipper or buttons, and can be just pulled up and adjusted with a drawstring, making for a simple wearing experience. This can also be a welcome departure from finicky button closures or buckles that may be harder on older hands and joints. Opting for knitwear garments made of linen or jersey can make for a continued breathable experience, while also helping to prevent overheating on high temperature days, or if a hot flash comes along. To keep your shorts from riding up, opt for a size up to ensure your shorts don't hug your body too tightly. 

Skorts have become a staple in many older women's closets across the country because they're the ultimate way to dress up an outfit while staying cool and comfortable in the summer heat. The built-in shorts make for an unbeatable 2-in-1 experience that creates the illusion of a fancier outfit but the comforting assurance of a pair of shorts. With skorts, you don't have to worry about accidentally flashing anyone because the built-in shorts will keep you covered at all times.

The practical appeal of a skort allows wearers to have more flexibility while wearing them to avoid feeling restricted like other, tighter pairs of shorts. Some skorts are made in a wrap-style that comes together with ties or a button, making the style look even more elevated than other, more casual skorts. Midi-length skorts are also great for a more elevated look that can come in handy for formal occasions, helping to provide a sophisticated flair without adding too many textures or styles to an outfit.