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I’m only 5’0, so I’m always on the hunt for clothes that can trick people into thinking I’m just a tad taller. One trick I’m relying on this summer? High-waisted tailored shorts to elongate my frame while keeping me cool in hot temperatures. Not only does this style make legs look slightly longer, but it also gives off a chic, put-together vibe and nails that expensive look.
Even better? I find tailored shorts much more comfortable than denim shorts. Despite being more fitted, they typically come in much lighter, breathable fabrics such as linen or cotton. I love that these pairs are easy to dress up or down, and I think they give any summery outfit a more polished feel. Scroll on to find some of the best expensive-looking tailored shorts worth shopping, starting at just $13.
13 Expensive-Looking Tailored Shorts That Elongate Your Frame
1. My Favorite: These tailored shorts have a high-waisted design that makes legs appear longer, a polished pleated front and a wider leg that ensures they’re extra comfortable and flattering. This pair is also slightly longer, meaning they can easily be dressed up and always feel elevated.
2. Stylish Details: With their longer length and high-waist fit, these Bermuda shorts are more modest and elegant. I love the waistband the most, because it’s elastic for comfort and designer-like detailing that looks so elevated.
3. Keep It Casual: These gingham shorts have a tailored look and feel, but they’re also on the more casual side, so you can pretty much wear them whenever you want. The lightweight, 100% cotton material ensures they’re perfect for warm temps.
4. Budget-Friendly: Made of a slightly stretchy material with an elastic waistband, these suit shorts are so comfy. They also look expensive, even though they cost less than $15 — so grab ’em while you can, because they’re bound to go fast!
5. Airy Feel: I love Nordstrom’s linen blend shorts because they’re lightweight, breathable and flattering. They have a high waist and relaxed fit that makes legs look a little longer, while crisp pleats down the front keep them extra chic.
6. Crisp and Cool: These chino shorts are one of my favorites to wear whenever I want my outfit to feel laid-back yet luxe. They’re lightweight but structured, and I like that they’re a little shorter without being too short.
7. So Comfy: These high-waisted shorts have an elastic waistband for a stretchy, comfy fit, but the button in the front gives them that tailored look. The pleating down the front also elongates the leg.
8. Office-Friendly: Pair these pleated shorts with a button-down or white tank, and you’ve got a business casual look that could even work for the office. I like the subtle paper-bag waist, too.
9. Looks Expensive: With the wide waistband, pleating in the front and slightly relaxed fit, these wide-leg shorts look like they cost a lot more than they actually do. I love their elevated feel and the light brown colorway, which pairs perfectly with a breezy white button-down.
10. Flouncy Pleats: Between the shorter length and high waist fit, Abercrombie’s pleated shorts are the ultimate elongating pair. These stand out to me because the pleats make them look almost like a mini skirt, just a lot more comfortable.
11. Something Short: Most tailored shorts are on the longer side, but these have a 3-inch rise that shows just enough leg. They might not be office-friendly, but they definitely nail that rich mom look.
12. Denim Pick: Quince’s denim shorts have a more tailored fit, creating a luxe, put-together kind of vibe. Front patch pockets make them unique, and the stretchy fit keeps them from being restrictive.
13. Classic Chic: These linen shorts are one of my go-to options because they’re light and comfy enough to feel like lounge shorts, but still look crisp and put-together enough to dress up.
Finding shorts that are both comfortable and flattering can sometimes feel harder than finding the perfect pair of jeans. Between pinching waistbands, stiff fabrics and cuts that ride up after a few steps, plenty of styles miss the mark. This summer, however, we’re embracing shorts with smoothing waistbands, easy silhouettes and thoughtfully placed details that […]
