With the hottest of the summer months among us, it’s time to start swapping our skinny jeans for shorts and other warm weather approved apparel. You might be starting to sweat just thinking about what to wear to the office, especially if you’re a public transit commuter, dreading those heat wave, smog-filled days. The questions we all want to know is, are shorts acceptable at work, and how short is too short?

Depending on your industry, some offices are becoming more and more relaxed with what you can and can’t wear. While the best answers may come from your HR dress code guide, you really need to ask yourself: would I feel right and be representing both myself and company wearing this in front of clients or senior leaders?

 

To pull off shorts in the workplace without compromising your professionalism or look, here are our top five office-approved styles!

Weekday Yachting

These soft linen shorts are super chic and versatile and can be worn casually to go boating, or with a great navy blazer and loafer to the office. On a bit of the shorter side, their relaxed fit and cuffed bottoms leave them looking polished and appropriate for work.

 

Shop the Look: Club Monaco Anree Short in Stripe, $129.50

The Tailored Look

We all remember the style master vibes Pharrell served us a couple years back in that Lavin tuxedo shorts suit at the Oscars, and since then, short suits have been a yes for all fashionista! These ASOS Mix & Match Tailored Shorts are perfect to go with a blouse and blazer at work or with a bodysuit or tank for dinner and drinks. Add a classic feminine touch to this menswear-inspired look with a stiletto heel.

 

Shop the Look: ASOS Mix & Match Tailored Shorts, $45

Printed Trends

We’re seeing paisley everywhere lately and we love it! From bohemian printed fabrics to streetwear inspired looks, we’re seeing the bandana pattern on neck scarves, apparel, and accessories on street style blogs and runways. Toronto designer Jacflash has these amazing lightweight Paisley Bandana Shorts with pockets that easily pair with a white blouse or t-shirt.

Shop the Look: Jacflash Paisley Bandana Shorts, $89

 

Good Denim 

Every since Khloe Kardashian launched her Good American denim line last fall, they’ve taken the fashion industry by storm! The body-positive denim line has expanded from just a few styles of jeans to jackets, shorts and most recently bodysuits! A Kardashian favourite, these Bermuda cut shorts are a great way to wear denim shorts to the office without any controversy!

 

Shop the Look: Good American Ripped Bermuda Jean Short, $145

Copper-toned

A great colour for the neutral-loving gal, these copper brown bermuda shorts from Banana Republic are tailored to perfection. Their wide cut makes them airy for those hot days and appropriate length makes them an easy wear at the office. A removable waist tie lets you switch the look up and add a belt, and their deep cut pockets give you a place to put your work keys or cellphone.

Shop the Look: Banana Republic Avery-Fit Tie-Waist Bermuda Short, $74

Inspiration Image:

Image courtesy of Instyle via Vanni Bassetti/Getty

Product Info:

1. Club Monaco Anree Short in Stripe, $129.50

2. ASOS Mix & Match Tailored Shorts, $45

3. Jacflash Paisley Bandana Shorts, $89

4. Good American Ripped Bermuda Jean Short, $145

5. Banana Republic Avery-Fit Tie-Waist Bermuda Short, $74

By: M.J. Elle, Toronto, @TheMJElle

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