How to Wear Your Bike Shorts, According to Street Style Stars

Ever since bike shorts came back in style, they’ve been here to stay. And at InStyle, we’re grateful for that. Bike shorts have the range, whether you’re going for a Princess Diana-inspired athleisure look or something a little more evening-ready. Need proof of the bike short’s endless versatility? Ahead, we’ve rounded up 11 must-try bike shorts outfits to wear now that the weather has warmed up, inspired by celebs and street style stars alike. 

With Head-to-Toe Neutrals

Hailey Bieber’s neutral-forward wardrobe extends to athleisure. We love how she played with proportions, wearing ultra-short Alo Yoga shorts with an oversized coat in a coordinating shade.

Elevate a Graphic Sweatshirt

Gigi Hadid made Mickey Mouse look runway-ready with her fun graphic sweatshirt, which she paired with black bike shorts, sneakers, and tube socks.

Temper a Bright Color

Of course, the bike short color palette extends far beyond neutrals, as demonstrated here by Katie Holmes in her coral style. If bright bottoms seem overwhelming, do as Katie does and pair them with a laid-back oversized button-down. 

With a Classic White Tee

Lori Harvey’s athleisure looks never fail, and this tied-up tee and printed bike shorts look is no exception. Paired with a baseball hat and sporty slides, the look easily goes from the gym to brunch. 

Dressed Up for Dinner

Black bike shorts can easily go more dressy, as seen here on Love Island’s Chyna Mills. Teamed with a bra and oversized blazer, the look reads more romantic night out than morning at spin class. 

With a Matching Top

When in doubt, go with a matching set. Seen on model Josephine Skriver, a set takes exactly zero thought and always looks composed — particularly when paired with cute accessories, like a pastel mini bag.

With Colorful Stripes

Leave it to Bella Hadid to reinvent the concept of shorts and a striped top. Her (mostly unzipped) striped sweatshirt adds unexpected sexiness to her simple bike shorts and chunky sneakers.

With a Printed Button-Down

Rumer Willis follows a simple yet effective formula here: Wear your favorite bike shorts and matching sports bra, then layer a cute button down on top — buttoned or not — for coverage. Good to go.

With Unexpected Accessories

If shorts and a T-shirt is your move, you have our full support, always. Sometimes, though, you might want to give the look a little more zhuzh. In those instances, bold accessories — like a colorful crossbody, knee-high socks, and chunky shoes — are here for you. 

With a Belted Vest

If you, like us, sometimes have a hard time figuring out what to wear in 60-degree weather, look no further. Bike shorts, a lightweight long-sleeve shirt, and a belted puffer vest offers layers and looks shockingly elevated. 

Layered Under a Skirt

Bike shorts under a skirt suit gives Melanie Griffith in Working Girl, but make it 2023 and we’re here for it. Not convinced? Just see how chic designer Amina Muaddi looks here for proof of how cool it looks. And as a bonus: no chafing!