I Live in the South and Wear Shorts All Summer Long—32 Pairs I Think Are Perfect

Truth be told, I’m not a big summer person. There aren’t all that many things I love about it except that it’s when my birthday is and that I get to wear shorts. But since I live in the South (North Carolina, to be exact), I’m forced to contend with summer-like weather for a good five months out of the year. If I didn’t like shorts, I’d be in trouble.

It goes without saying that shorts can be a bit polarizing. Even if you’re in the camp that hates them, sometimes they’re just necessary, no matter where you live. Since I’m someone that does appreciate a good pair of shorts, and it’s my job to find the best of everything fashion-related, I put together a list of some of my current favorite shorts in the categories that matter most: denim, sporty, dressy, and casual non-denim. Scroll on to shop my favorites before summer begins—I know I will be.

I’ve already purchased this polished pair and I can’t recommend them enough.

If it’s long shorts you’re seeking, your search can end here.

Meet my colored denim recommendation—aren’t they chic?

I’m not surprised that this comfortable, affordable pair is selling out.

As far as pleated shorts go, these are the goal.

I’m a big fan of & Other Stories denim (I just advise sizing up).

Baggy shorts lovers, these are for you.

I’m very much on board with wearing these with a blazer.

I’m obsessed with the way Reformation styled these.

Trust me—these are the most comfortable bike shorts money can buy.

And just like that, I need these in every color.

These are the perfect dog-walking (or just walking) shorts.

I’d love to wear these with an oversized button-down and Adidas Samba sneakers.

I bought these last summer and find that they’re easy to dress up too.

I want this entire outfit, but especially the shorts.

You’ll wear this versatile pair a ton.

I’m fully obsessed with this color.

I suddenly don’t know why I don’t own a pair of leather shorts yet.

I’d totally wear these out to dinner in the summer.

Wear these if you want to look very chic but be very comfortable.

A worthy splurge, if you ask me.

If you chose to wear these to the office, I wouldn’t be opposed. Additional sizes available here.

These will look super chic paired with other neutrals.

This shade of blue is about to be everywhere.

If you’re not shopping Alex Mill for basics, what are you waiting for?

It’s telling that the reviews on these are great and numerous.

If ever there were a time to own a pair of red shorts, it’s now.

Welp, I’ll be ordering these.

Of course Staud would make one of my favorite pairs of shorts on this list.

Nothing says summer like a pair of linen shorts.

I’m obsessed with the way Elsa Hosk just styled these.

I don’t know about you but I have many neutral-colored tops to wear with these.

Next up, 29 flat sandals from Nordstrom that will make every single outfit so chic.