I know the fashion brigade is already fixated on Spring but with current temperatures culminating at 7 degrees, winter is unarguably still here.  So it is not too late to invest in a nice pair of winter shorts and enjoy wearing them!

Last year, I resumed my love affair with winter shorts.  This year, I want to spread the love because you know what, life’s too short! haha

Don’t fear!  Don’t believe anyone who says that you are too old or too this or too that for wearing winter shorts.  It is a brave move but as you only live once, give it a shot.  Once you try it, you may become – like me! – completely obsessed.

The beautiful thing about winter shorts is that you can easily wear them during daytime with a comfy jumper and flat ankle boots or create an elegant look by pairing them with a chic blouse and a pair of stilettos in the evening.

A few wise words before hitting the shops to find your winning pair:

Choose your fabric wisely

Choose your pair in a sturdy fabric and avoid denim (even dark ones) in winter.  You may think that your teenage daughter looks cool wearing denim shorts in the middle of January.  You may be adamant to retain a certain rock n’ roll attitude.  But hey, I can assure you that you are better off choosing yours in a more flattering fabric.

I am talking about suede, leather (much more rock n’ roll than distressed denim) or even tweed. Your shorts will then keep their shape so that you can showcase an elegant silhouette.  If you choose yours in leather or suede, it is an investment piece but you will not regret it (as long as you follow my tips…).

Fifty Shades Darker

Opt for a darker shade.  Winter shorts look more elegant in a darker shade (black, navy, dark blue, Bordeaux, dark green…).  If you want to inject colour in your look, match them with a flashy top or a colourful jumper.  If you prefer to keep your outfit monochrome, you can use accessories to add a touch of colour. A large leather or suede belt will do that brilliantly.

Keep your legs in the shade

Pair your shorts with opaque tights.  Again, you may think that it may be fun to match your elegant leather shorts with some plumetis or floral tights.  Although it can sometimes be fun to channel an 80s vibe, with winter tights it may be safer to keep it simple to avoid the risk of becoming a walking caricature.

If you want to keep your outfit chic and sleek, it is best to stick to a nice pair of opaque tight (at least 40 deniers).  It may sound a bit boring but it will not only be flattering but it will also keep you warm.

Find the Winning Fit

Don’t be afraid to try on different shapes.  I know this sounds obvious. However, at a time when we buy online most of the time, it can be more challenging.  It is very important that you feel comfortable and happy with how your winter shorts fit.  Remember that we are talking about “elegant winter shorts” and not “barely-there hot pants”!

Winter shorts can come turned up, with or without open pleats on the front or be totally straight.  Some cuts are shorter or wider than others.  Depending on your body shape, one style will fit you better than another (unless you have a won the gene lottery of course!).

They often come high-waisted which tends to be more flattering.  The key thing is that they need to sit properly on your hip without flaring too much.  Also, check that you are entirely comfortable wearing them by sitting down on a chair when you are trying them on.  They should not come too high up on the leg and/or squeeze your thighs or your waist when you are sitting down.  It is a good test to see if the pair is a winner.

A little selection

In brown tweed at Ba&sh

In black leather option at Maje

In dark green suede at Sézane

Are you ready?