This Hotly Debated Shorts Trend Is Back Just in Time For Summer

Not every fashion trend has to be the most practical. Over the years, we've wobbled down streets in dangerously high stilettos, and have kept dresses in place with double-stick tape and safety pins — all in the name of looking (and feeling) cute. So, when we tell you that leather shorts have returned as a big trend for summer 2020, just know that we know they don't make much sense. However, there are plenty of reasons to love this look anyway.

While we don't recommend wearing them in say, 90-degree heat (two words: waistband sweat), they're kind of the perfect in-between staple. They pair well with tank tops and tees, but also look sharp with button-downs and sweaters. Sandals and sneakers can still complete your look, but leather shorts work with heels and boots, too. Plus, while they're easy to throw on in place of denim or cotton options, that buttery texture makes them feel a bit more elevated and high-fashion.

As it turns out, some of our favorite celebrities and style icons are already big fans of leather shorts. They've done the hard work for us, putting together eye-catching outfits, and showing us exactly why it's worth investing in a pair, ASAP.

Leather Shorts Have Returned for Summer 2020

Part of us will always associate this questionable trend with early 2010s, when we first started pairing them with ankle boots and fishnet tights. However, the shorts style popped up on more than one spring/summer 2020 runway, from Salvatore Ferragamo (pictured) to Valentino, thus convincing us they've returned in a big way.

They'll Likely Stick Around For a While, Too

Saint Laurent included a variety of longer leather pairs in its fall 2020 collection, so, if there were ever a time to invest in this item, now would be it.

Celebrities Are Already Pros at Pulling Off This Look

Back in March, Megan Thee Stallion proved that leather shorts can be both sleek and sexy, wearing a micro pair with a matching black jacket.

A Quick Trick Is to Keep Things Monochromatic

For the 2019 iHeartRadio Music Festival, Lucy Hale went all-black, wearing her leather shorts with a black blazer, high-neck top, and heels. It immediately made them seem more elevated.

Style Your Leather Shorts Like You Would Any Old Pair

For example, throw them on with your favorite sweater (or long-sleeved polo shirt!), just like Storm Reid did at Jimmy Kimmel Live in February.

They'll Look Great With Almost Any Shoe

Sandals, sneakers, slides, loafers — the list goes on. Irina Shayk even showed us that over-the-knee boots are an attention-grabbing option.

These Bottoms Will Quickly Amp Up Basics

Including that work-appropriate, structured button-down, similar to the blue option Olivia Culpo wore with her beige pair of shorts.

On Warmer Days, Simply Break Out a Solid Tank

Tuck it in, add accessories, and your outfit is pretty much ready to go.

An Oversized Graphic Tee Also Creates an Easy Combo

When styled with white sneakers, your outfit will come across as cool and casual.

Leather Shorts Are Great For Balancing Out a Statement Top

Especially if your shorts are a neutral shade, such as black, brown, or white.

Plus, There's More Than One Style to Choose From

Whether you go super short or knee-length, want them to be slightly baggy or kind of tight, you can likely find a pair that suits your specific style.

These Babies Easily Transition From Day to Night

Something sheer, sparkly, or puff-sleeved will make leather shorts the perfect choice when heading out with friends.

...As Well As From Season to Season

On chillier days, a cardigan or oversized sweater will make for a super cozy and cute outfit.

And, Styling Leather Shorts With Tights Is Still Cool

The key is to go with something sheer or a fun pattern, like Chiara Ferragni's checkered pair.

We Can Already Envision How We'll Wear These Shorts Come Fall

A longer length that can then be layered over thigh-high boots is already a street-style-approved look.