11 Pairs of Shorts to Wear Instead of Denim Cut-Offs

By Caroline Vazzana
Jul 09, 2016 @ 10:45 am
Kirstin Sinclair/Getty

We love denim cut-offs. Everyone loves denim cut-offs. They're easy, they're versatile, and they work for nearly every summer occasion (you know, outside of the office, weddings, and other dressy affairs). And while you can dress up a pair of frayed denim shorts, like with a crisp button-down or a pretty off-the-shoulder poplin top, there are times when we just want to up the sophistication. Unfortunately, that doesn't include denim shorts. For a more elevated take on your off-duty summer uniform, we found 11 alternatives to denim, with shorts cut from breezy white lace, soft linens, and embroidered cotton. They're polished and incredibly comfortable—the best of both worlds. Finish the rest of your summer with our favorite finds that will have you saying bye to your blues.

 

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Valentino

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$1,176 (originally $1,960) Valentino available at farfetch.com Opens a new window SHOP IT Opens a new window

Pair these lace shorts with a neutral block-heel sandal for weekend brunch.

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River Island

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$90 River Island available at riverisland.com Opens a new window SHOP IT Opens a new window

Pack these embroidered shorts for your next tropical getaway. 

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Chloe

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$1,004 Chloe available at farfetch.com Opens a new window SHOP IT Opens a new window

These silk drawstring shorts are ultra comfortable. 

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Vivienne Westwood

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$174 (originally $580) Vivienne Westwood available at net-a-porter.com Opens a new window SHOP IT Opens a new window

We adore the paperbag waist detail and the polka dot print. 

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Zara

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$40 (originally $70) Zara available at zara.com Opens a new window SHOP IT Opens a new window

These belted shorts help accentuate your waist.

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Alice & Olivia

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$370 Alice + Olivia available at net-a-porter.com Opens a new window SHOP IT Opens a new window

Add a luxe touch to any look with these embroidered shorts. 

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Mango

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$25 (originally $50) Mango available at mango.com Opens a new window SHOP IT Opens a new window

Give your look a nautical-inspired spin with these high-waist striped shorts.

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H&M

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$25 H&M available at hm.com Opens a new window SHOP IT Opens a new window

Tied with a bow, this style is super sweet and feminine. 

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Lands' End

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$39 (originally $65) Lands' End available at landsend.com Opens a new window SHOP IT Opens a new window

Finish your look with a pair of classic stripes.

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J. Crew

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$30 (originally $40) J. Crew available at jcrew.com Opens a new window SHOP IT Opens a new window

Add a pop of color to your look with this bright red short. 

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Topshop

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$60 Topshop available at topshop.com Opens a new window SHOP IT Opens a new window

These pom-pom shorts are giving us some serious boho vibes. 

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