WHY DO WOMEN STOP WEARING SHORTS
This is more of a “hot” topic than I realized. I am talking about wearing shorts. Shorts are something that we all wore as children, and we loved wearing them even in our twenties or thirties. But, for some, a switch gets flipped once we reach our forties, and shorts get pushed to the back of our closets. So, today, we will dive into this topic and see if we can get shorts back into your wardrobe.
Why do women stop wearing shorts?
- There are probably a lot of reasons women stop wearing shorts. But, I am going to address just a few. Probably the most common reason that we stop wearing shorts after a certain age is that we aren’t happy with the way our legs look. Long gone are my shapely legs from my youth, and I am left with spotted limbs (thanks to my younger days of sunning with iodine and baby oil) and also crepey and saggy skin.
- I am no longer a size 4, and I don’t like showing my dimples and lumps to the world.
- Shorts are so casual and too informal to wear out in public.
- Finding the right length is impossible, and I just give up.
You might have a different reason for throwing your shorts to the curb, but these were a few that I’ve heard from my readers in the past. I think that we should listen to our inner voice when it comes to fashion. If a style makes you uneasy, then don’t wear it. If you like a style and want to wear it, then don’t let other’s opinions stand in your way. I am going out on a limb here, but I bet none of us have the “perfect” body. Here is another news flash for you, I probably wouldn’t even look at your legs if we met on the street. I might notice your eyes, smile, hairstyle, and even clothes, shoes, jewelry, and handbag. BUT, unless your legs were colored bright orange, I probably wouldn’t give them another thought.
Today, my blogger friends, Jennifer, Susan, and Deborah, are all going to show you how we wear shorts. This topic is one that I’ve written about many times, and it is still relevant today. I wear shorts a lot, and I like wearing all different styles of shorts. Since I am wearing a white pair of jean shorts today, I decided to wear this blue and white stripe mesh sweater with them.
I am seeing this open weave mesh design a lot this summer, and I love the look. The sweater has my favorite neckline, a deep v-neck, which helps to elongate my neck and create a thinner-looking face.
The sweater is long-sleeved, which I scrunched up to elbow length. The blue and white colors and the airy open weave of the sweater make me think of the beach. Since I am always cold, this sweater would be perfect for me, especially once the sun sets in the afternoon. I am wearing a size large, and I love the way that it fits.
I wear shorts a lot, and I like wearing all different styles of shorts. The thing that determines the shorts that I keep and wear is how they fit. I consider a couple of different factors such as length, leg opening, crotch comfort, and the view from the back.
My favorite inseam for me is between 5-7 inches. This white denim pair is 7 1/2″ long, and I really like the length of these. These shorts sit slightly below the waist and have the traditional 5 pocket style. The leg opening is great and isn’t too tight. Since I have large thighs, I try to stay away from anything that hugs my legs too tightly. I also don’t want my shorts to fit me too tight around the hips since that can cause issues, and your pockets won’t lie flat. Plus, if your shorts are too tight, then you are usually uncomfortable in the crotch area, and that is a big no-no.
I am wearing my usual size 30 in these shorts, so I think that they run TTS.
I usually prefer wearing neutral or lighter-colored shoes with shorts. I want my legs to appear as long as possible, and a dark-colored shoe can make your legs appear shorter and stubby looking. This light rose pair of espadrilles are perfect for shorts as well as jeans. Who doesn’t love the embroidered words, “Ciao Bella?” Hello beautiful!!!
I am wearing my usual size 9 in these espadrilles. When I first put them on, I thought that they were too snug. I noticed that they were more comfortable by the time that we finished with my photos. Then, I read on the website that this is normal and takes a few times for them to break in.
I thought that you might like to see different photos with me wearing different lengths. That would give you a better idea of how they will look on you. I am 5’6″ tall for sizing references, and I normally wear a size 10 in shorts.
I am wearing are a 5″ Callahan short from Lilly Pulitizer. This exact print isn’t available, but there are three prints that are just as cute. I am wearing an older pink cardigan with the shorts that isn’t available online. However, here are some cute cardigans for you to choose from.
I wore these bright pink 8″ shorts the other day, and they have a loose leg style. This pair also has an elastic waist, but the front is flat for a smooth look. I am wearing a medium in these shorts, but I think that they were still too large for me.
I style the shorts with a raffia sandal and a navy balloon-sleeved top. The top is gorgeous, and the embroidery on the sleeve looked great with the shorts. I am wearing my usual size 9 in the slides and a medium in the top.
Honestly, I’ve never been a fan of Bermuda shorts on me until I bought this pair. These black Bermuda shorts are so comfortable, and they fit like a dream. They have a slim silhouette, and I think that is what I like so much about these shorts. They can be easily be dressed up or worn casually, so they are very versatile. I am wearing a size .5 in the shorts, but I would order a size 1 instead if ordering now.
The tie-front blouse is especially flattering for my body type. I carry most of my weight through my stomach region, and this style blouse does a great job of camouflaging my issues. This particular blouse is sold out, and I am not surprised. However, here are some that would do the same thing.
Finally, I am carrying my Isla Michael Kors handbag, and I think it is the perfect summer bag. I love the linen canvas material, and the color is a great neutral that will go with almost anything. This handbag is not too big and not too small; it is the perfect medium size.
Be sure to check out Jennifer, Susan, and Deborah to hear about their thoughts on shorts. Whether you wear shorts or not, it is up to you. Wear what makes you happy and confident, and you will look fabulous!
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as we get older – our legs get less attractive. varicose, spider veins, loss of muscle tone, age spots, and crepe skin. some prefer to not flaunt the uglies ahaha – me.
I hate my legs is my reasons for not wearing any shorts at all, I’ve hated them even as a teen
While I don’t think many women look good in shorts, my main complaint is that they are HOT. I much prefer skirts or even better: dresses. They are so much more comfortable and SO much cooler than shorts.
Love wearing shorts. You look fabulous in the black shorts with magenta top. Love the style on most of
the other bloggers except the Navy pleated, cuffed
shorts. Those make Mom jeans look stylish!
I love wearing shorts. Ya, I have crepey skin, dark blue vein on one leg and spider veins on both . But what the heck, I’m 59, so that’s how it is. And I’m ok with it. I think if they fit good, and your happy with how they look then go for it! Thanks Tania for this posting about short wearing!
I think all of these are flattering on you. Although, I think 5″ shorts are a little short and maybe ok for around the pool & at the beach. I’ve been athletic my whole life. I’m now 59 years old. I’m 5’4″ & size 4. My legs are pretty toned BUT the crepey skin, spots and spider veins are no fun. I found that 7″ is the perfect length for me. They cover just enough. I like that they can be dressed up or down depending on the top and shoes. I also wear skorts and lots of skirts and dresses in the summer. It’s very hot where I live. Thank you for doing this post!
I like my shorts and my summer dresses. My husband laughs at me because my legs are so white, but I don’t care cause God made me the way I am and I am His child! I am 68 years old and have scars on my knees from bilateral knee replacements but God I’d good, all the time! Amen!
Hi Tania,
Something I did not mention in my previous comment – that shorts with a wide leg tend to ride up in the inner thigh area when walking. Twenty years ago I taught aerobics in a cardiac rehab facility and the uniform then was biker shorts and a sports bra. My menopause flab just won’t quit, and it rolls over the top of every pant I own so any Lycra has gone bye bye. I do have a single pair of denim that hit just at the top of the knee but they don’t ever leave the house.
Also despite having cooled perforated leather seats in my car I’m so over burning my thighs on hot seats. And I find that looser cargo style shorts bunch up even more in a car. Last summer I found some of those at Macy’s (Style and Co.) and after losing weight I discovered that I could take them off without unbuttoning and unzipping LOL. I gave them all 6 pr to a gal who was moving to Florida. They are cotton and have a bit of elastic in the back waistband and are really really comfy except you have to get the bunched up part pulled back down. I really recommend them to anyone who is looking for a modest length with pockets that is high waisted and don’t need a belt. Only caveat – they do not shrink and they need ironing. If you send me an email I’ll send you a link. They may be a nice shorts feature for summer.
Bermuda shorts are my go to! Just like the ones in your photo, the shorts end at the top of my knees. Very slimming.
Hi Tania! After reading some of the comments, I wanted to share a product that does a lot of good for hiding blemishes, capillaries, etc. Loving Tan Bronze Shimmer Luminous Cream. It gives instant color, satin finish, and natural glow. It’s easy to remove in the shower so it doesn’t require a big commitment. It also dries in 60 seconds! I mix some with my body lotion and it really does help smooth out my skin, sort of like foundation, but never cakey or orange. I love all your outfits! Thanks for all your good suggestions.
I wear what I guess are bicycle shorts (7″ leggings) year round as I live in the Caribbean. I prefer the snug/streamlined fit rather than having bulky fabric around my thighs on an already short frame making me look like a box.
Hi Tania, I like the black Bermuda shorts best because they are so sleek looking, and your pink silky top looks great with them. I’m was surprised to see how well you wear those really short Lily Pulitzer ones too! It’s hard for anyone to pull off that short, but you do!
Cheers, Deborah
You look great in shorts! And thank you for showing a view from the back. No other bloggers seem to do this and I appreciate it when you do because the back view of an outfit is important! I wish every outfit would be shown from the back because it’s fairly easy to look good from the front and a little harder to look good from the back.
Hi Tania,
You look very good in your shorts. Thank you for the inspiration. I’ve never been much of a shorts wearer. I was very overweight as a teen and an adult. I then lost ~160 lbs. in my mid-forties. When I was heavier I was ashamed of the way I looked in anything. All my clothes were dull colored, loose, and meant to hide my body. After I lost weight I had a lot of loose skin, especially on my thighs and again wanted to cover up. I finally found shorts that suited me and they were a pair of navy Bermuda shorts with a 12″ inseam. They are tailored and I can dress them up or down depending on the activity. This one pair are the only shorts I own for public viewing. I’m not counting the cut-offs and knit stretchy pairs that are for yard-work or hanging out at the house.
I have to say that it is very freeing to have items in my wardrobe that don’t need pulling down or up or constant readjusting – things that I can just put on and go with comfort and confidence.
Hey girl, you have beautiful legs! And thanks for sharing shorts w us! I love these print ones! And of course white makes your legs look more tan! I’m older than you and I still love wearing shorts!
I feel the same way about my legs as I do my arms. My skin has changed quite a bit in the past few years. Crepey skin. I would wear knee length if I found a flattering style. Working hard on forgiving my arms.
Tania – I think because you live in the south, have a pool and a place at the beach you are more likely to wear shorts. Somehow I just got away from it. But would like to make this work, I have short legs and very pale skin and need to work at toning my legs but I would like to wear them. I appreciate that you style them and give us ideas. I think the light shoe idea is great. It does help make legs appear longer.
Pat, if you have short legs, then going for a shorter length would work best for you. I don’t mean short-short, but try the 5″ or the 7″ ones to see which you like best.
Tania, you look fabulous and very much at ease in your shorts. Bravo!
Susan, I am at ease in my shorts. I wear them often and love how cooling they can be.
My husband and I moved from upstate NY to MD in 1999. We went from fairly mild summers where you could in August need a long sleeve shirt to summer temperatures possibly lasting till October!
I don’t know if I will ever fully adjust to our more hot and humid summers. Shorts, cute dresses, and skirts are a summer must for me. I very rarely wear pants in the summer. I get to the point where I just don’t care how white my legs are. It’s too hot! lol 🙂
Most of my shorts do hit right at my knee or slightly above. No short shorts for me.
Ellen, I just rub some sunless tanner on mine and head out the door. Lol! The downside to that is, the tanner makes the dark spots even darker.
I am about the same height and weight as you are and have gotten many great ideas from your posts. The midwest summers can be brutal and I like shorts but sadly my upper legs have seen better days. The Chicos shorts look great and I have also had great luck with Soft Surroundings shorts. They come to the knee with a cuff, are pull on and stretchy and the style is very slenderizing.
I have several soft surroundings items, but I’ve never tried their shorts.
I still wear shorts but just a little longer ones than I used to. I prefer the Bermuda length. I live in the south so it is way too hot in the summer months to wear pants/jeans. I have some broken capillaries here and there, but I just pretend they are tattoos LOL since I see some young ladies have them on their legs. Love the outfits you featured in this post.
Gayle, I have the broken capillaries also. Mine comes from sitting too much, but some people get them from standing too much. Whatever, they are what they are.
Discovering DG2 by Diane Gilman, specifically her Virtual Stretch denim, has been a game changer for me. Being able to feel confident in shorts again as a plus sized gurl living in Florida is wonderful!
I haven’t tried the denim ones, but the pink ones were really comfortable.
I love wearing my shorts in the summer. Love the Lilly Pulitzer ones.
Those shorts are super cute.
great narrative, gives me a lot to think about!
Mary, I know that you seem to dress up a lot, so shorts might not be in your closet as much.
Love all your short outfits. I too also love to wear shorts and haven’t stopped. Love the style ideas. I feel if I am comfortable in them, I don’t care what others think.
Exactly, Carol. You are not dressing for strangers unless you are a blogger. Lol!!!
Your legs are lovely, I like the white and pink shorts the best. You are right, I never pay attention to your legs always your bright smile. Your personality shines through in every outfit you style. Thank you for all the tips on fit, style and color to make us look better. You are a wealth of knowledge!
I am glad to hear that you don’t pay attention to my legs. That is kind of my point, we notice peoples personalities instead of individual body parts.
Hi Tania. I admit that I stopped wearing shorts for a time, but have included them back into my wardrobe for the past couple of summers. I’m 63 and in relatively good shape, but I’m getting more of those darn spots on my legs all the time. Loved your comment about not noticing others’ legs and mine are not bright orange, so I guess they’re okay. Bermuda shorts are my favourite as they offer more coverage and can be dressed up or down. All of your shorts outfits in today’s post look great on you!
Janice, I am glad to hear that you are now including shorts back into your wardrobe. I really dislike my dark spots on my legs, but they are there because of my own stupidity, so I can’t really complain.
I LOVE the hot pink outfit and black shorts now I would feel like a hot mama in that. Lolj Yeah I was thinking I’m bout too old to wear shorts. It really depends where I’m going. Like to a doctor – NO, causal dining out – yes and of course WALKING a big yes. It’s just the mindset we have like can I steal pull this off>
Unless I am going to something that calls for dressy attire, then jeans, shorts, or a sundress will probably be my choice in the summer.
I love wearing shorts, and it is very doubtful that I will ever not wear them living at the beach!
Yes, when living at the beach, shorts are the dress code most of the time.
I read Susan’s blog and jumped over here. I live in the south east where it is hot and humid form June through the end of September. So most people wear shorts. While I generally don’t wear shorts out and about I do wear them at home. I like a 7” short but I wear Bermuda’s too. Thanks, for the inspiration.
Robyn, welcome to my blog! I live in Virginia, and I wear shorts a lot. My sister lives in Atlanta, and wearing shorts is almost a necessity because of the heat and humidity.
Hi Tania love your selection of shorts something there for everyone I was one of those “ladies” who thought I was getting too old for shorts and I loved shorts – my beautiful sister and cousins (similar age group) persuaded me and I am so glad you are never too old and I now am very happy to wear them 🩳
Bernie, I would never have thought that you would consider yourself too old. You always seem to be having fun in everything you do and wearing shorts is fun!
I’m surprised no one has replied yet! So I’ll go first.
I lost a lot of weight and my thighs have a serious amount of flabby loose skin and my inner thigh at the knee sort of pooches down. That’s first. Secondly I have a serious amount of varicose veins in the back of the knee area. And some scars from various injuries over the last 70 yrs. I don’t let any of that see the light of day. If my legs look like yours I’d be in daisy dukes!
Liane, my legs aren’t that great looking either. And, since I sit so much because of my blogging, I am getting more and more varicose veins also. But, they are my legs, and if people don’t like looking at them, they can turn the other direction.
You look terrific in shorts! I had no idea you wear them so often but if I had your nice long legs, I would too!!
This was fun.
Jennifer, I do wear shorts often. I get hot, and they are cool. Lol!