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Fashion, Summer ·

The Most Effortlessly Chic Summer Date Outfit

My summer date outfit options just got a whole lot cuter because I added paper bag shorts!

This was a fashion trend I was wary to try, but after some trial and error (and several years of them being super popular), I found the perfect pair of paper bag shorts. Not only are these shorts incredibly flattering (thanks to the tied, cinched waist), but they’re also ridiculously comfortable. They feel more like wearing pajama shorts than anything else, but they’re chic as can be!

Paper bag waists have been prominent throughout fashion history. The style is quite retro, which adds even more appeal to our modern outfits. You can dress the style up or down, and it’s a fit that’s available in everything from pants and shorts to skirts and skorts! If you’re still unsure whether or not this style is for you, I’d recommend giving it a go, and at least trying on a few different pieces to see which ones suit you the very best.

outfit details
shorts c/o Chicwish (currently out of stock. similar) | top | similar jacket | heels | similar necklace | similar handbag

How to Style Paper Bag Shorts for a Summer Date Night

When it comes to date night outfits, I want to look my best and feel confident in what I’m wearing. This means that my ensemble needs to be comfortable, and highlight my favorite assets. After applying my first faux tan of the summer, I knew I wanted to highlight my legs, and these shorts were the perfect option. The cream color made my tan stand out, and the length is short without feeling like I’m exposing too much of myself.

I decided to go for a tried-and-true black and white look, because you really can’t go wrong with these colors. Okay, so the shorts are off-white/cream, but you get the gist. The sleeveless blouse, tucked into the shorts, with a pair of heels gave me an air of elegance, while still keeping me comfortable and cool in the heat of summer. I brought along a denim jacket because it’s always a good idea to have light layers in case of temperature changes throughout the evening.

This is officially my go-to date outfit for the rest of summer! (Oh, and did I mention that my husband loves it too? Total bonus!)

Related Posts
10 Midi Dresses You Didn’t Know You Needed // How to Look Classy in a Denim Skirt // Why You Need a Striped Top in Your Closet

Have you begun experimenting with paper bag shorts and pants yet?

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Comments

    • Thank you so much! I don’t know if I’ve ever loved a pair of shorts more. These are just so flattering and comfortable – ooh, and versatile too!

      Reply

  2. You’re so TINY that those shorts look amazing on you!! I feel so conscious when I wear anything with a drawstring waist, BUT I love the idea of wearing shorts and pairing it with a denim jacket – I need to do that more often. It’s such a fun look. You’re adorable!

    Reply

    • Paper bag shorts look absolutely wonderful on all shapes and sizes. It’s just a matter of finding the right pair that makes you feel comfortable and confident. You might be pleasantly surprised if you test a few different pieces 🙂

      Reply

  5. I’ve tried rocking a few paper bag shorts, and I think since hips are so wide I never seem to get the right fitted look. Your look is cute since they’re snug on the hips but I think my thigh and hip ratio is off for some reason because I always look like I’m in spandex lol!

    Reply

    • I’d suggest trying a few different brands to discover the perfect fit for you! It took me a while to find this pair (and I have ones that are chambray as well), because I also have wider hips, and the shorts would buckle right above my hips and butt. It just took trial and error!

      Reply

  6. ooOOoOO Need paper bag shorts in my closet! I totally haven’t worn them in years – love the inspo!

    Reply

    • Yes you definitely do! I’m glad they’re back “in” and there are even more elegant styles available. I felt like for years they weren’t something I could pull off, and now I have a couple pairs that I love!

      Reply

    • Paper bag is such a stylish, flattering trend – and I hope it sticks around for an extended period of time. It’s pulled from retro fashion, so I’m pretty convinced it’s not going anywhere!

      Reply

  8. you rae totally rocking these shorts girl! i am very wary of shorts because i have such a short torso that sometimes they look funny. these are totally making me second guess that, though!

    xx rebecca // http://www.rebeccapiersol.me

    Reply

    • It’s all about testing different brands and finding the right ones for you. Maybe don’t start with ones that are super high-waisted, and you’ll find some that work better for a shorter torso! 🙂

      Reply

    • Hehe I’d be honored! 🙂 I’m not a big fan of typical denim shorties, but these make me feel confident and classy, while still being cool enough for the heat of summer. I usually try to have a denim jacket or light cardigan with me at all times, just in case there’s a change in temperature – but I’m with you, I can’t wait for it to cool down again!

      Reply

  11. You are looking absolutely gorgeous in that outfit hun! It suits you quite well and I love the shorts and shoes the best.

    Reply

    • Absolutely! I’m all about comfort. It’s just as important as style, if you ask me. Long gone are the days where I pick something *just* for the way it looks. You should give paper bag waist shorts a try!

      Reply

  13. I love paper bag shorts but don’t have one yet! Love how you styled yours and you look so glam! ❤️

    Reply

  14. Oh I love this look! You’re right, so effortless but so incredible chic. I have been in a huge flat phase and you’re inspiring me to pull out a pair of heels! Cannot wait for our next date night!

    xo Laura Leigh
    https://louellareese.com

    Reply

    • There’s something about a pair of heels that just make me feel totally fierce! I stick with block heels, and always try on pairs first to make sure they’re comfortable for an extended period of time. That way, I can wear them on a date and not get to a point where my husband needs to give me a piggy-back ride because of blisters! Haha.

      Reply

    • I can totally see you rocking these shorts! I’m bummed that this *exact* pair is out of stock (they’re only available in pink right now), but I did link a really similar one.

      Reply

    • You really can! I’ve paired them with a bunch of tops in different styles and colors, and I could even see them working with a lovely, long-sleeve bodysuit and booties in the autumn!

      Reply

  20. Those shorts aren’t only cute, but they are also look very comfy! That’s definitely something I look into during the summer. I currently just have two paper bag shorts, both in black hahaha, so I need more colors in my closet.

    Reply

  23. This is a cute look girl. I love being able to throw on a denim jacket at any time! It was such a great addition to my wardrobe a few years ago!

    Reply

  27. They look so good on you! I don’t like wearing shorts for various reasons, but I would keep the entire outfit except change the shorts for paper-bag pants 🙂 I really like them, although I have wide hips, the emphasis they put on the wait is super flattering

    Reply

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