The Anti-Daisy Dukes Shorts Trend Taking Over Summer 2026
The relaxed silhouette has become fashion people's favorite way to get dressed right now.
If you haven’t yet heard, it’s a “big shorts summer.” Take a scroll on TikTok, and you’ll find trendsetters ditching their hot pants for bottoms that boast long inseams and spacious cuts.
Let the record show that I’ve always been a proponent of knee-length cut-offs. In college, when most of my classmates were sporting Daisy Dukes, I was rocking a pair of $30 Zara Bermuda shorts—before it was cool. I simply couldn’t bear the chafing caused by thigh-high pants, so cozy jorts became my fashion-meets-function solution.
Fast-forward to my late 20s, and this pants trend has remained a reliable staple in my capsule wardrobe. With summer in full swing, I’ve been wearing big shorts in the office as a breathable alternative to heavy trousers—and I’m not the only one. Marie Claire Editor-in-Chief Nikki Ogunnaike shares the same sentiment, noting that the best way to style them is with a “tiny top and a pair of heels.” This clever technique—which balances proportions and instantly elevates a look—is one that I’ve since incorporated into my own outfit rotation.
For more style inspiration, I’ve been eyeing the latest runways, where designers had plenty of big shorts on display. During the Spring 2026 fashion week circuit, Max Mara offered a corporate twist by styling its version with a matching blazer and a laptop-friendly tote bag. Meanwhile, Balenciaga took a more laid-back approach, pairing roomy denim shorts with a cropped jacket and chunky thong sandals.
With celebrities like Zendaya, Salma Hayek, and Demi Moore also embracing big shorts for summer, I’m convinced that the trend is bound to stick around this season. So, I’ve curated a list of styles to add to my shopping cart. Ahead, you’ll find a categorized edit, ranging from chic cropped trousers to casual board shorts.
Jorts
Your new favorite work outfit, courtesy of Ogunnaike.
While denim is inherently casual, Ogunnaike demonstrates how to make jean shorts feel elegant. Above, she styled an ivory-colored pair from Kallmeyer with a flattering collared top and ballerina sneakers. She also owns a pair of dark-wash jorts from Agolde, which she recently paired with a crisp button-down and leather sandals.
For more elevated finds, consider alternatives from Banana Republic and Madewell.
Bermuda Shorts
Teamed with a rugby top and heels, this Bermuda shorts outfit has “sportif” written all over it.
As a minimalist, I often gravitate toward neutral shades that are easy to mix and match. For that reason, I’ve been loving these Bermuda shorts from Enza Costa, Staud, and Toteme, all available in various shades of beige and brown.
That said, I’m looking to step outside my style comfort zone this summer, so I’ve included Mango’s striped bubblegum pink bottoms for those moments when I want to make a statement.
Board Shorts
Yes, you can wear board shorts beyond the beach.
The board shorts trend is making waves this summer, and I’m very into the beach-ready style. To avoid looking like a sandy surfer, I’ll take notes from the savvy street styler pictured above, who coordinated swim trunks with sophisticated separates and polished accessories.
Tailored Shorts
Nothing says “classy” quite like a tailored co-ord.
With temperatures hovering around ninety degrees these days, I’ve officially swapped my floor-sweeping tailored trousers for cropped alternatives that offer much better ventilation. Designed with sharp silhouettes and subtle pleats, the options below maintain an office-friendly appeal.
Drawstring Shorts
Pull-on shorts are the ultimate cozy move.
Sweltering weather calls for extra comfort. Aritzia, Gap, Uniqlo, and Leset offer drawstring styles that aren’t at all constricting. Crafted with airy fabrics like linen, crepe, and cotton, these will keep you cool all season long.
Cargo Shorts
Ask Ogunnaike about cargo shorts, and she’ll tell you the early aughts style is back for another spin around fashion’s trend cycle.
Y2K-era cargo shorts are officially back for summer 2026. Instead of pairing this utilitarian trend with graphic tees and cropped camisoles, take a more contemporary approach by opting for tailored vests and buttoned blouses. Ground your look in sleek shoes and shimmering accessories, and expect to keep this outfit formula on repeat.
