
If you’ve stepped outside at any point over the past year, you’re probably aware that lace-trim shorts are very much a thing. Yes, the style is somewhat specific, but that’s what makes it special. If you thought the lace-trim-shorts trend peaked last summer, think again. Their popularity hasn’t waned, but how people style them is starting to change. Last summer, I saw lace-trimmed shorts paired with a T-shirt or tank and sandals, but for 2026, people are mixing things up a bit more, and I have six outfits to show you that prove it.
Whether made of satin, linen, or poplin, lace-trim shorts can become a viable wardrobe staple in your closet, as they pair well with a variety of items and add a trend-forward touch while functioning as a basic. With a trend this popular, it’s easy to just look like everyone else when wearing it, but the six outfits highlighted below will undoubtedly open up your mind to the styling possibilities.
Keep scrolling for some of the most important tips for wearing lace-trimmed shorts this season and to shop chic outfits that include them.
Pro Tip: Pair Them With a Colorful Tee for Contrast
Sure, you could wear black shorts with a white T-shirt, but wearing colorful shorts with a colorful T-shirt is far more interesting and very appropriate for the season.
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Sporty & Rich
California T-Shirt
Reformation
Fern Satin Shorts
Pro Tip: Opt for Polished Basics
Wearing the whimsical shorts trend with something more polished, such as a checked button-down, adds contrast to the shorts and makes them even cooler.
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ZARA
Oversized Plaid Shirt
aritzia
Whimsy Satin Shorts
Jeffrey Campbell
Sweetwater Slingback Sandals
Pro Tip: Dress Them Up With a Long Trench
Who doesn’t love the look of a long coat over something short? When that long coat is a lightweight, light-in-color trench, you have the perfect match for lace-trimmed shorts, especially when said shorts are white and made of breezy cotton.
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Aritzia
The Regent Trench Coat
dissh
Talise Blue Stripe Shirt
Madewell
Perfect Crewneck T-Shirt
TKEES
Lily Square Toe Flip Flops
Pro Tip: Swap the Sandals for Classic Pumps
Sandals may be the obvious choice when wearing lace-trim shorts, but a classic pair of pumps adds far more elegance to your look.
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DÔEN
Iona Lace-Trimmed Silk-Satin Shorts
Sam Edelman
Bianka Slingback Pumps
Pro Tip: Wear a Track Jacket to Look Like a Fashion Person
Wearing something sporty with something that could pass as sleepwear is cool in every sense of the word. Here’s your proof.
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Ouigap
Packable Track Jacket
Pro Tip: You Can’t Go Wrong With a Cardigan
Instead of a tee, try pairing your shorts with a cardigan. Your outfit will look instantly elevated.
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MANGO
Contrast Button Crewneck Cardigan








