We’re officially onto our second heatwave here in the UK, which can only mean one thing: it’s time to pack away my jeans and wool trousers for the time being. And taking their place? My shorts, of course. The perfect lightweight alternative to the trouser styles I reach for throughout autumn and winter, it’s clear this season is going to be a shorts summer. Not only do they strike the ideal balance between looking and feeling cool, but I’m convinced that with the right styling tweaks, they can work for literally any occasion.

So, with the overly sweaty commutes I’ll be taking to the office this week at the forefront of my mind, I decided to go on the hunt for some easy but elegant summer outfits with shorts to copy in 2026. And after a quick scroll on my Instagram feed, my saved folder was quickly filled with a myriad of shorts outfits that feel as fresh as they do timeless. But to make things easier for you, I’ve narrowed my wider edit down to the five chicest shorts outfits that I’ll be copying from now until early autumn.

From breezy linen fabrications to elegant tailored Bermuda styles, keep scrolling to discover five easy-to-copy shorts outfits to copy this summer.

5 Easy But Elegant Shorts Outfits to Copy in Summer 2026

1. Tank Top + Linen Shorts + Flip-Flops

Style Notes: Lightweight and easy to style, linen shorts are a staple that will work hard for you from now until early autumn. And the best part? They need minimal styling tweaks to look elegant. A simple tank, suede sandals and a raffia tote are all you need for an easy but chic look.

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2. Bodysuit + Bermuda Shorts + Strappy Sandals

Style Notes: After years of spotting fashion people in Bermuda shorts, I finally decided to invest in a pair myself this summer. When you want to dress them up for the office, or otherwise, a halter bodysuit, heeled sandals, and a leather clutch will add some polish to this cool short style.

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3. Shirt + Denim Shorts + Ballet Pumps

Style Notes: I’ve packed away most of my jeans already, so a denim short is the perfect alternative for those extra hot days. The easiest way to style them? Pair it with the classic white shirt and ballet flats you’d usually wear with your jeans. Then, finish off the look with some summer-appropriate accessories.

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4. Cardigan + Lace-Trim Shorts + Heels

Style Notes: Linen and denim are timeless, but elegant dressers know that satin is just as versatile and looks even more put-together for formal occasions. For a polished evening outfit, I’ll be turning to trending satin lace-trim shorts with strappy heels and a lightweight knit.

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5. T-Shirt + Athletic Shorts + Mary-Janes

Style Notes: If you love a pair of track pants as much as I do, then let me introduce you to its cooler younger sister, the athletic shorts. A much lighter alternative to the ‘80s-inspired trousers we all know and love, these sporty shorts will bring a cool edge to all of your outfits this summer.

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