3 ways to style black denim shorts (without looking like you’re 16)

If you’ve seen me the past few summers you know I’m a big fan of denim shorts, or “jorts.” I love wearing jeans so it’s no surprise I enjoy the summer equivalent, aka shorter jeans haha. Last summer I traded in my too short American Eagle shorts for a nice pair of AGOLDE denim – the “Parker”, and this year I added another pair by the same brand, but in a faded black wash with a longer inseam. That’s how I know I’m 28 y’all, by the fact that I searched for denim shorts with a 4 inch inseam. But, I digress.

Styling black denim shorts for summer (+ fall):

Today I wanted to share 3 ways I’m styling my black denim shorts in hopes to inspire you with your own styling!

In all of these photos I’m wearing the AGOLDE “Dee short.” They’re a button fly 100% cotton pair of denim shorts with a 4 inch inseam and an 11.75 inch rise. This color is called “exhibit” and they are available in most sizes at Urban Outfitters. I received mine as part of my ongoing collaboration with Shopbop, but they are currently sold out there. AGOLDE also offers the “Dee” short in a light wash denim (available here). There are a few places left with one or two sizes available in the medium wash, but not many. I stayed true to size and ordered my normal 26.

First up, a casual look that could easily transition into September and October (if it isn’t too cold). I love a long sleeve top with shorts and since these are black denim and more of a mid-length, they still feel completely appropriate for fall. I paired them with the same things I’ve been wearing for years (truly) – my favorite Old Navy broken in denim jacket, a white button down from Lou + Grey and the most comfortable white sneakers.

Other styling ideas: they would look great with a chambray shirt + green cargo jacket. Or equally adorable with a lightweight sweatshirt and a fun pair of ankle boots. 🙂

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I think this might be my favorite of all three!

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Next up:

Denim shorts for a night out?
Why not.
Paired with a mesh puff sleeve tee from H&M and these awesome gold snake earrings I thrifted, they have a completely different vibe than look #1. Mesh tee too risque for you? Add a black cami underneath. Or find a fun lace blouse. Adding a great top, bold earrings and even a small heel can completely dress up your shorts!

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Last but not least…

And the leopard blazer from last summer is back. Add a lace trim cami (or really any tank), throw a blazer on top. This 3 piece combo of shorts, a tank and a blazer is an easy go-to outfit. (Or add jeans and make it the fall version – like this). This feels the most “adult” of the looks, and again, I think it works because the shorts are a darker wash and slightly longer. You could easily switch the sandals for a sneaker if you wanted.

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Which of these looks is your favorite? Let me know in the comments below. Hope these styling ideas were helpful for you today; keep rocking those shorts!
xo, Maddy