How To Style (And Wear) Biker Shorts
THE TREND IS MORE ATTAINABLE THAN YOU MAY THINK
I have to admit, when I first began to notice biker shorts making their presence known within the fashion world, I looked the other way, turning a cold shoulder at what seemed like a ridiculous trend. These spandex style shorts have always been meant to support the bums of cyclists. They had no place in the world of street style. Then Kim K. rocked them, and well, the rest is history.
One lesson I’ve learned on this journey of embracing these shorts is to never say never because I’ve done a complete 180. They are now a go-to within my wardrobe. I’ll even go as far as to say they’ve replaced the tried and true denim shorts as my “I don’t know what to wear today, so I’ll just throw these on because they’re easy, and they make me look pulled together” shorts. Yeah, I know…
If you’re still on the fence as to whether or not you also want to jump aboard the biker shorts train, let me give you a little inspiration. Honestly, sometimes its easier to show you the way, versus telling you. With that said, here are three different ways to style this trend, in hopes that you too will give it a try. Trust me, it’s easier than you think…
Causal style always holds a special place in my heart, so this look is definitely speaking my love language. Pair your biker shorts with a cropped tee or tank, add a denim jacket and slides, and VOILA, you’re set! Want more style cred? Layer up your necklaces for a stylish statement.
For those of you that aren’t fans of cropped tops, a great alternative for this casual style is an oversized t-shirt. You’ll achieve the same vibe, especially if you keep that jewelry piled on!
Biker Shorts: Express, Tank: Zara, Denim Jacket: Nordstrom, Chain Belt: old, Sandals:
Birkenstock, Watch: MVMT, Necklaces: Kenda Kist, Voda Boutique, Bevello Boutique
This is such a sexy, fun way to dress up these shorts. The contradiction between the structured blazer, and the athletic styled shorts, is a perfect pairing. The old philosophy that opposites attract is very relevant in the fashion game, and this is an ideal example.
What do you need to recreate this look? Pair your biker shorts with a blazer of your choosing, but preferably one that’s a little longer, to cover your rear and even out the proportions of the combo. Add a belt to accentuate your waist. Lastly, top it off with a date-night ready heel, or sandal.
Prepare for jaws to drop.
Biker Shorts: Express, Blazer: BCBG (old), Belt: Gap (old), Shoes: BCBG (old)
Off-duty? What in the world does that even mean? Traditionally, off-duty referred to models showing off their style while going from one runway show to another. Their “I’m not at work in this moment” look. A model “off-duty” represented an uncomplicated, almost basic (but in a good way) vibe, while still looking pulled together. It was a chance for them to display their personal style, or, as we also like to call it, their street style.
The rest of the population has now adopted this term, altering its meaning, but at its core it still represents a well pulled together, uncomplicated look. Hence, what I was going for in this third way to style biker shorts. Each piece is extremely wearable. Shall I dare to even say a bit basic? But when combined, the outcome is nothing short of cool.
So, what’s the formula for this look? Compliment those biker shorts with a loose, relaxed blazer (long enough to cover your booty), a graphic tee, and some statement sandals. Again, layering up on jewelry will add dimension and definitely a fashion-girl factor.
Biker Shorts: Express, Blazer: H&M, Tee: Bourbon Blonde the Label, Shoes: Who What Wear Collection from Target
A few additional ways I’ve styled biker shorts!
Now how do you feel about biker shorts? Are they starting to grow on you as they did me? I’d love to know your thoughts! In the meantime, I hope you feel inspired! Fashion is meant to be fun, so don’t be scared to get creative with your wardrobe!
Written by Megan Thomas Head of Bourbon Blonde.
Content Creator for The Papur.
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