How I Style Printed Wide-Leg Pants

I've been wearing shorts a lot lately! First because it's been super hot and humid, even here in the Twin Cities, but also because I've found the perfect shorts! When you are taller and on the curvy side, finding a pair that sits right can be a challenge. So I was super excited when I stumbled on this denim pair of shorts and these linen-blend options. They feature a high waist and longer inseam which give them a classic and more modest vibe. And both have belt loops for an adjustable fit and who doesn't love that? 

There are endless ways to style shorts during the Summer, whether you opt for camis, tees, shirts, or even dresses (yes, you can totally layer a shirt dress over shorts)! As a millennial mom and corporate leader in her forties, I tend to stick to outfits that are more elevated and modest. My formula for styling shorts – especially white shorts and denim shorts which already scream Summer casual – is to pair them with more structured pieces such as a blazer or an oversized oxford shirt. Here are some ways that I have styled shorts this Summer:

White Shorts With A Blazer and Vest Combo

White shorts are a classic Summer staple. Pair them with any tops and they instantly give that warm-weather, nautical vibe. Because white shorts can be so casual, I wore them with a structured navy blue blazer over a matching vest for an elevated casual vibe. This look works because the longline blazer balances the shorts with a touch of elegance and also because blue and white make a crisp Summer color palette. I finished the look with a brown leather tote and color-blocked loafers for a modern and laid-back allure.

Check out the outfit reel on Instagram.

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White Shorts With An Oversized Shirt

Independence Day inspired the colors in this look! I wanted something colorful yet classic with a bit of an Americana vibe so I paired my white linen shorts with a red oversized striped shirt. I added a blue silk scarf and a red structured leather tote to play up the flag's colors and also to elevate the outfit. This is another one that gives nautical vibes and is perfect for all kinds of Summer feats, including coffee runs, errands, picnics and brunch too. A modest shorts outfit not only keeps you cool and comfy, it also delivers the versatility busy women need to effortlessly go about their weekends.

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Denim Jorts With A Layered Shirt

Just because it's Summer doesn't mean you can't layer your outfits! The trick to doing it without feeling like you're overheating is to go for natural, breathable fabrics. I started this outfit with a denim pair of jorts. These are so good! The length is perfect, the high waist sits just right, and it's a structured denim meaning it will retain its shape. For a laid-back yet intentional look, I added a long linen shirt layered with a cropped blazer. Mixing lengths is a surefire way to achieve elegant balance with a look and especially with shorts. Bold accessories such as a chunky beaded necklace, a large leather tote and chunky loafers add edge while maintaining the relaxed allure.

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These outfits just scratch the surface of how you can elevate shorts in the Summer, especially for women over 40. Which one gets your vote? And what ideas do you have about sharp shorts styling? 

I have a love-hate relationship with the July 4th holiday. On the bright side, I love the Summer energy that surrounds it: time at the lake for those of us in the Midwest, concerts, fireworks, and all the barbecuing. It just feels like a big community party! On the flip side, I feel like Summer goes really fast after that holiday. It's like it's July 4th, and then it's back to school. Anyhoo, I'm still excited for it and can't wait to rock all kinds of patriotic red, white, and blue outfits that bring out the Americana spirit. Americana style has been around for a long time and is all about celebrating the United States heritage and history. The aesthetic has leaned more utilitarian but has also been spun into more modern looks. My take on this fashion core is simple: mix and match the red, blue, and white pieces in my closet to create looks I can wear to work, after-work, coffee runs, and patio lunches. Here is some modern Americana inspo that will make you love the red, white, and blue combo even more:

White Shorts With A Striped Red Shirt

It's not Summer until you have worn white shorts! For an easy yet elevated casual outfit, I wore white linen Summer shorts with an oversized red striped shirt. I added a large red leather tote and a blue neckerchief to really play up the color-blocking. The colors and stripes give this outfit a nautical vibe which goes well with Summer outdoor and beachside feats.

Baggy Cargo Jeans With A White Shirt

Well, it looks like I can't let go of my red tote! It's such a good one all-around, for work and casual, and is perfect for color-blocking! I built this outfit around my oversized white shirt which I've been wearing non-stop lately. I love how crisp and versatile it is. And mind you, it's currently only $20 so I wouldn't wait on snatching one! To contrast in color and style with the sharp white shirt, I went for baggy blue jeans. Nothing balances a sleek top like jeans! I finished the look with a wide leather belt for a little definition and added dressy pointy heels to elevate the jeans. This is a chic and elevated casual look with some edge that would work perfectly for non-corporate work meetings and some weekend feats too.

White Maxi Dress With Red and Blue Accessories

When you find a good white linen dress, you take it! It was love at first sight with this Meshki maxi linen dress! I love that it has structure, looks modern, and the quality of that linen fabric! It's a dress that can multitask from work to weekend with the right accessories. For this laid-back out-of-office look, I paired the dress with flat strappy sandals, a red handbag, and blue bangle bracelets. I wanted to accessorize the look without taking away from the white dress hence the minimal pops of color.

This outfit proves that getting into the swing of Americana doesn't have to be limited to the usual casual pieces. You can get creative and play with your more elevated dresses to create classic yet fun patriotic looks.

Blue Jeans With A Striped Shirt

You guys know I love to wear jeans! They are versatile, seasonless, and pair well with just about every closet staple, from oversized shirts to blazers and tank tops. For an easy weekend look, I opted for my Levi's baggy jeans and an oversized striped linen shirt (similar here). For a more elevated take, I went for a navy shade of blue that matched perfectly between the shirt and the jeans. Navy blue makes such a great canvas to build upon! I added a chunky ivory white necklace, ivory leather pumps, and a red handbag to stay true to the color theme – even though I went more off-white than white but it's still close! The accessories give the look an alluring balance of relaxed casual and classic chic.

For a dandier spin on the jeans and oversized shirt combo, try adding a red tie, red slingback pumps, and an oversized cropped denim blazer. This look is edgy and creates even more beautiful contrast between the red, blue and off white.

Are you into red, white, and blue? And which look is your fave? Let me know in the comments!